MSc Project Management

Full Time: 12 months | Flexible: 24 - 63 months

Start date: September

Focus on the strategic management of projects, programmes and portfolios, and become a project leader in construction.

Project management is traditionally described in terms of the overall planning, control and co-ordination of a project from inception to completion, aimed at meeting a client's requirements and ensuring completion within specified constraints of time, cost and quality.

While this definition continues to provide a good starting point, the reality of modern project management is extremely complex. Client organisations are often pluralistic, comprising multiple stakeholders with different objectives. The complexity of the construction process thus leads to inherent uncertainty.

The role of the project manager is to integrate the various sectors of the industry in order to manage key interfaces throughout the project supply chain. Therefore, the successful project manager must have the ability to integrate and lead an interdisciplinary team in uncertainty. Effective leadership and sensitivity to human issues are vital. Modern clients demand an integrated and effective approach to the management of their construction projects. The discipline of project management continues to evolve and our MSc in Project Management is at the forefront of these developments.

The distinctive focus of the course is on the strategic management of projects, programmes and portfolios.

The aim of the course is to provide a coherent framework for the discipline and practice of project management. Each module includes a number of sessions delivered by leading practitioners. The course is continually informed not only by the latest developments in industry, but also by on-going international research.

A recurring theme throughout the course concerns the dynamic nature of construction projects. Not only is it necessary to set clear objectives at the beginning of a project, it is also important to update them continually as the project unfolds.

A further theme is provided by the need for project managers to provide leadership. This requires a high level of interpersonal skills to motivate diverse team members towards the realisation of project success. Effective project management requires a sound knowledge of tools and techniques. It also requires an ability to think strategically. Traditionally, notions of command and control have to be matched with an ability to manage 'soft' issues. People management is central to the art of project management.

A particular emphasis is given to the early stages of construction projects and the interface with complex clients; projects are rarely carried out in isolation.

Quick look entry requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall with no element less than 5.5 (or equivalent).

Entry requirements: You are normally required to have a good undergraduate honours degree (or equivalent from a university outside the UK). If you have other qualifications and a number of years’ relevant work experience then you may also be eligible to apply.

What will you study?

Sample modules:

Principles and practice of project management
Construction contract law
International construction
Strategic management
Innovative developments in construction

Please download our MSc Programme Guide (PDF-576KB) for further module information.

Please note that all modules are subject to change. Please see our modules disclaimer for more information.

Dissertation

The dissertation is a major individual research project. Guidance will be given on choosing a research topic, research techniques and the style and presentation of the finished document. Classes in research skills are provided as part of the dissertation module. Students will have their own carefully selected dissertation tutor whose role is to help them plan and successfully execute this key part of the programme.

Full-time

We offer a one-year, full-time modular course. It is taught with ten, one-week attendance periods at the University. The full-time programme starts in September each year.

Flexible part-time

We also offer a two-year, part-time modular course. It is taught with ten, one-week attendance periods at the University. The duration of the flexible route is strongly recommended as two years, but this is not fixed. The flexible course starts in September each year.

How much will it cost?

New UK/EU students: £8,200 per year

New international students: £18,300 per year

Additional Costs

These course fees cover the cost of your tuition. Some courses will require additional payments for field trips and extra resources. You will also need to budget for your accommodation and living costs. See our information on living costs for more details.

Financial support for your studies

You may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary to help pay for your study. Students from the UK and other EU countries may also be eligible for a student loan to help cover these costs. See our fees and funding information for more information on what's available.

International students applying to study this degree may also be eligible to apply for a Chevening Scholarship.

Flexible courses (price per 10-credit module)

Home/EU students: £455

International students: £1016

The fees given are for entry in the academic year starting in September 2017, and will be confirmed in your offer letter. You can find more information on fees andfunding, including for part-time study, through our dedicated fees and funding page.

What career can you have?

The course is intended for those who wish to progress to a project management role, or acquire a broader understanding of the project management process. The course will appeal to professionals from a variety of backgrounds, including:

The course will benefit anyone who wishes to improve their understanding of project management and underpin their practical experience with a robust conceptual framework.

Graduates will typically find employment as a project manager with public and private sector clients, consultants, architectural practices or contractors in the building, civil engineering or oil and gas sectors.