There are multiple educational pathways into the highways and transportation sector, studying at college or university or developing your skills through work.
Have a look at some of the options on this page to find the right route for you.
An apprenticeship is a great way of learning new skills, networking, gaining valuable work experience and getting qualified all while earning a salary. For more information on apprenticeships in the highways and transportation sector across the UK, with testimonials of former apprentices explore our Apprenticeships Schemes page
Apprentice Membership with CIHT is FREE for all highways and transportation apprentices.
Watch this short (1 minute) video) with former apprentice, Gracie Belwood, on the transport planning technician apprenticeship, explaining why she joined.
A degree is not a requirement for all roles or for CIHT membership, but studying at a college or university is a popular route into a career in highways and transportation. Some qualifications to consider
BTECs, NVQs, and T-Levels in subjects like civil engineering, construction, or transport planning can lead to technician roles.
HNCs/HNDs (Higher National Certificates/Diplomas) – Shorter, career-focused alternatives to university degrees in civil engineering or transport infrastructure.
Bachelor’s Degrees (BEng/BSc) in subjects like Civil Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Infrastructure Engineering, Urban Planning, Geography.
Master’s Degrees (MSc/MEng) – in subjects like Civil Engineering, Transport Planning, Construction Management, Transportation Planning, Intelligent Transport Systems.
Having an accredited degree is important if you are aiming for professional registration. CIHT is one of the five professional institutions that make up the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) which accredits civil engineering qualifications for EngTech, IEng and CEng. Check if the course you are interested in is accredited through the Engineering Council accreditation course search
CIHT and the Transport Planning Society approve a range of Masters programmes for Chartered Transport Planning Professional (CTPP). Check if your course is approved MSc courses for the Transport Planning Professional qualification
Rees Jeffreys Road Fund and the Brian Large Bursary Fund run grant schemes aimed at supporting the professional development of transportation professionals. Full details of the grant schemes and online application forms are on the charities’ websites.
Bursaries - Rees Jeffreys Website
Brian Large Bursary Fund (blbf.co.uk)
If you are thinking about moving into the highways and transportation sector, studying an accredited course or starting an apprenticeship can be a great first step.
If you’re switching from another sector, why not become an Associate Member (AMCIHT)? As an AMCIHT you will get free access to most of our CPD courses to help you to develop your career in the sector on our digital learning platform, CIHT Learn, which covers skills from leadership and management to contracts, design and much more. You'll also benefit from a wide range of other member-exclusive resources and benefits designed to support your professional growth.
If you have questions or need any help or support regarding Educational Routes into the Sector, why not talk to one of our team.
CIHT | Education education@ciht.org.uk
CIHT | Professional Development professionaldevelopment@ciht.org.uk
Do you work in the Highway and Transportation sector and are not a CIHT member? Do you want to expand your network and gain access to a wealth of knowledge and technical expertise? Are you looking to boost your career and earning potential?
If the answer to any of those questions is yes, then why not become a CIHT member and set yourself up for career success. CIHT Membership is FREE for Students and Apprentices.
If you have any questions you can contact us at e: membership@ciht.org.uk
