We have launched a new route for CIHT members to gain the Chartered Engineer (CEng) qualification through an Experiential Learning option. This new route allows CIHT members with partially accredited engineering degrees or Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status to demonstrate Master's level learning, paving the way to CEng. Applicants who successfully pass an Experiential Route Assessment will be invited to submit an application for Professional Review and attend a Professional Review interview.

The CIHT Experiential Learning option assesses applicants' in-depth knowledge and critical thinking abilities, focusing on key areas of engineering expertise, management techniques, and a broad understanding of economic, legal, social, ethical, and environmental aspects of engineering.

Damian Meehan, Chair of the Individual Route Assessment Panel at CIHT, expressed his enthusiasm for the Experiential Learning route, saying, "This new route recognises that engineers take different routes to gain the knowledge and competence needed to become Chartered. The Institution has listened to its members and challenged itself to establish this route that will increase access and hopefully encourage more members to pursue professional qualification"

To be eligible for the CEng Experiential Learning route, applicants must be current Members (MCIHT) or Fellows (FCIHT) of CIHT. They must either hold a BEng(Hons) degree in Civil Engineering that is partially accredited for CEng registration, or have IEng status through CIHT or another relevant professional engineering institution. Applicants should also be able to demonstrate engineering experience at a senior level including managing projects and leading and developing teams.

The Experiential Route involves demonstrating Master's level learning outcomes. Applicants who hold partially accredited engineering degrees must exhibit their knowledge of complex problem-solving, use of analytical tools and techniques, an understanding of technical literature, design, sustainability, teamwork, and effective communication. Those without partially accredited degrees must also demonstrate knowledge of an integrated/systems approach, professional ethics, risk, security, equality, diversity, and inclusion, and engineering practice.

For each learning outcome, applicants will provide critical analysis of one or two projects in which they played a significant role, explaining the relevant engineering and management theories and principles applied, the analytical methods and tools used, and the knowledge gained during the activity.

The Experiential Learning assessment is carried out by two CIHT assessors who are Chartered Engineers. While the assessment primarily relies on the written evidence provided in the application, applicants may be required to attend a short interview to further discuss their examples and expand on their written submissions.

The Experiential Learning route was piloted in 2023 and we’re delighted that four applicants successfully completed both their experiential assessment and their professional review and have now been registered as Chartered Engineers. This new initiative is set to enable more engineers to achieve CEng status and gain recognition for their engineering expertise.

For more information on the CIHT Experiential Learning option, please visit the Chartered Engineer page of the CIHT website or contact the education team education@ciht.org.uk for guidance and assistance in pursuing your CEng qualification.