MSc Intelligent Buildings

Aims and objectives

One generally accepted definition of intelligent buildings is:

'An intelligent building is a dynamic and responsive architecture that provides every occupant with productive, cost effective and environmentally approved conditions through a continuous interaction among its four basic elements: places (fabric; structure; facilities): processes (automation; control; systems): people (services; users) and management (design; construction; performance) and the inter-relationship between them.'

The principal aim of the course is to provide advanced knowledge of intelligent buildings and hence educate those who will commission, design and manage such buildings. This group will include building owners and developers, architects, scientists, engineers and facilities managers who already work in the construction and property industry, or those who are considering entering the construction industry.

Delegates who attend this course will have the opportunity to study the nature of intelligent buildings with respect to design, construction and the operation processes from which they are derived. The construction industry is very fragmented at all levels. This course offers opportunity for professionals to study and work together irrespective of their discipline.

It can be concluded that an intelligent building creates an environment that allows organisations to achieve their business objectives and maximise the effectiveness of its occupants, while allowing efficient management of resources with a minimum lifetime cost. The modules for the course reflect this idea

Learning outcomes

A holistic evaluative approach as well as knowledge and understanding will be emphasised. In setting the principal objectives for the course it is intended that delegates will experience the following learning outcomes:

• they will be able to use a holistic interdisciplinary approach in their work;
• they will be able to evaluate the latest technical innovations applicable to intelligent buildings;
• they will be able to identify and describe the economic, social as well as technical issues which underpin effective decision-making in the design, construction and facilities management processes;
• they will learn to critically assess the balance between high and low technology;
• they will recognise that intelligent buildings are responsive to human needs;
• they will be able to manage the rapid rates of change, which impinge on activities of their companies.

You will achieve these outcomes through lectures, seminars and workshops during module attendance; by completing assignments set for each module and by completing a dissertation. Delegates come from various disciplines and learn by studying with each other throughout the module weeks and by benefiting from the exchange with the presenters who come from a wide range of professional backgrounds.

The Course Director refers to the module programme as aspiring to meet dreams and realities. The dreams and realities of this are dealt with by presenters from academia and industry with experience of dealing with medium and long term scenarios, particularly with regard to subjects like sustainability, as well as current projects.

The course can also provide for the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) needs of professionals, which are now increasing throughout the construction industry because CPD is considered obligatory by most of the professional institutions.

Course themes

• An interdisciplinary approach to understanding intelligent buildings.
• A modern and up-to-date account of the technologies involved, with projection of likely developments for buildings and their occupants in the future.
• Consideration of the economic, social and technical issues underpinning effective decision making for the design, construction and management processes.
• An introduction to the latest technical innovations applicable to buildings.
• Knowledge of the balance of high and low technology needed to design, construct and maintain buildings which:
• are cost effective
• support the business objectives
• are marketable
• are responsive to human needs
• consume minimum energy
• emit minimum levels of CO2
• enhance their local environment
• are healthy

Who should attend

The programme is intended for those who design, build, commission or operate intelligent buildings. The include: building owners and developers, architects and designers, project consultants, engineers, environmental managers, cost consultants, facilities managers

It will benefit anyone with experience in other fields who takes an holistic outlook and wishes to promote more effective, healthier and environmentally responsive buildings which meet business needs.

Course assessment

MSc participants must complete five compulsory and three elective modules. Each module lasts four to five days. Choice of elective modules allows participants to "tailor" the programme to professional development requirements and personal interests. After completion of each module, participants undertake problem solving assignments which can be related to the participant's own organisation. A dissertation of 15000 words must be completed by the end of the course. A diploma route is available for those who do not wishing to offer a dissertation. Individual modules can be taken as personal Continuing Professional Development courses.

Programme modules

Compulsory core modules

• Concept, Strategy and Management
• Building Systems, Architecture & People
• Building Information Modelling
• Engineering Intelligence into Buildings

Elective modules

• Real Estate & Finance
• Facilities Management
• Design Management and Briefing
• Sustainable Design, Construction and Operation 
• Research Methods  
• Carbon Management
• Strategic Management
• International Construction
• Learning from Other Industries

Entry requirements

Candidates should normally hold a relevant first degree (or an equivalent professional qualification).

Career prospects

The specific aim is to develop ideas and new ways of thinking about smart and intelligent buildings. These arise from the students being exposed to theory, research and methods of critical evaluation, bringing their work-based skills to bear in applying the lessons to their career environment. This will equip students who successfully complete the programme to:

• operate with increased authority within the area of core expertise;
• manage others in a team environment;
• obtain promotion within or outside their organisation of employment.