MEng Architectural Engineering

Title:

Building Services 1: Fundamentals

Code:

CE1BSF

Convenor:

DR Emmanuel Essah

Summary:

This module introduces the fundamentals of building services including basics of thermal comfort, fire protection and fire safety in buildings, electricity distribution, supply and transportation systems in buildings.

Students would be able to apply the knowledge they gained, in the module of “Design project 1 (CE1DPR)” that will be delivered in the spring term and Building Services 2: Fundamentals (CE2BSF) in the second year of their studies. This integrated approach enables the theories and concepts learnt in CE1BSF to be used and applied in other modules throughout the entire programme and helps better understanding the concept of building services as well as its application.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Empirical Studies

Code:

CE1CES

Convenor:

DR Mate Janos Lorincz

Summary:

This module seeks to develop students’ capacity in linking theory to practical and physical applications. It further seeks to reinforce that strengths and limitations of knowledge generated empirically is an essential skill required in students’ future professional careers. The module is a highly effective means of reinforcing learning that takes place in modules taught in Part 1.

Assessment Method:

Practical 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Information and Communication

Code:

CE1CIC2

Convenor:

DR Ruth Dowsett

Summary:

This module is designed for the students to learn the importance of information representation, communication and digital technologies in the construction of building projects, providing practical skills to support the studies whilst at the University of Reading. The module focuses on the principles, tools and methods to graphically represent and visually communicate project-related information, which can be applied in related building technology modules and in a later practice.

Assessment Method:

Set exercise 10%, Project 90%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Principles of Management

Code:

CE1CMP

Convenor:

DR Amna Shibeika

Summary:

This module aims to introduce students to key approaches in the study of management and strategy .The focus is on firm level management and the challenges which firms in general and construction and engineering consultancy firms in particular face in a dynamic, global context.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 80%, Class test 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Construction Site Engineering

Code:

CE1CSE

Convenor:

DR Mate Janos Lorincz

Summary:

Designers are placing ever increasing demands upon the Engineering community, with larger, taller and more complex built structures. These now include mega towers stretching almost 1 km into the sky. Understanding the key principles behind engineering is vital for any construction professional today if they are to manage and cost such projects. From previous years of running surveying, it is clear that student fail to understand how design and construction drawing become real buildings or structures and the fundamentals for achieving this.

Assessment Method:

Practical 10%, Portfolio 45%, Report 45%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Design Project 1

Code:

CE1DPR

Convenor:

DR Zhiwen Luo

Summary:

This module will teach students fundamental and practical design knowledge of building design for good physical and mental health. It will cover broad health-related knowledge in the built environment including thermal comfort, indoor air quality, ventilation and infectious disease transmission and control. This module is designed to provide students with the opportunity to learn from problem-based teaching and learning approaches. Apart from regular lectures on healthy building design, students will work in teams to address engineering problems by applying what they have learnt from lectures as well as independent study beyond the lectures. In addition, students will be provided with the opportunity to develop their teamworking skills and learn from each other and develop their critical thinking as well as research skills.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Engineering Mathematics 1

Code:

CE1EMA

Convenor:

PROF Li Shao

Summary:

A robust foundation in mathematics is a key element to study and develop a good understanding of engineering contents. This module builds upon the previous mathematical knowledge of students and further develop mathematical theory and techniques that are applicable for Architectural Engineering. This module introduces a wide range of mathematical content relevant to solve engineering problems including, complex numbers, calculus, functions and linear algebra which will be introduced within the engineering context. The mathematical contents of this module will be further applied to solve engineering problems in the module of Numerical Modelling and Programming 1 (CE1NMP) and the module of Design Project 1 (CE1DPR). In addition, this module provides a basis for the more advanced mathematical techniques that will be provided in the Module of Engineering Mathematics 2 (CE2EMA) in part 2.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

History of the built environment: space, design, and technology

Code:

CE1HBE

Convenor:

DR Martin Green

Summary:

This module is designed to provide students with the opportunity to recognise and distinguish developments in relationships between space, design, and emerging technologies. By contextualising developments in architectural engineering in the built environment, a conceptual and critical approach that bridges aesthetic and technical requirements will be explored. The module seeks to establish styles of architectural engineering and relate these to the emergence of new technologies in sociocultural contexts of the built environment. 

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Materials and structural analysis

Code:

CE1MSA

Convenor:

DR Timothy Lees

Summary:

This module introduces mechanical properties of a wide range of materials including concrete, metals, timber, and masonry that are used in structural design. In addition, the techniques of structural design and analysis will be introduced, and students will learn the rationale behind using these techniques and their application to the design of steel, reinforced concrete, and pre-stressed concrete structures. In this module factors such as stress, strain, elasticity, plasticity and cracking will be discussed. In addition, students will learn the science behind the structural durability of the main materials used in the built environment. This will include an emphasis on the life cycle, sustainability and recycling of materials. Finally, students are introduced to relevant Codes of Practice for designing structures.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Numerical modelling and programming 1

Code:

CE1NMP

Convenor:

DR Stefan Smith

Summary:

Numerical models are central to solve complex engineering problems, including assessment of thermal behaviour of environmental systems, heat transfer and fluid flow in the built environment. Numerical modelling and programming helps to find approximate solutions for complex, nonlinear problems where analytic solutions are not available such as the study of microclimates. This module introduces the principal knowledge for the formulation of model equations, approaches to solve them numerically and ways in which the performance of the developed numerical model can be evaluated. This module also introduces the basics of commuter programming using either Matlab or Python programs. A key characteristic of this module is that it is designed to integrate and apply the knowledge obtained in the module of Building Services 1 (CE1BSP), thermodynamics and heat transfer (CE1THT) and Engineering Mathematics (CE1EMA). 

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer

Code:

CE1THT

Convenor:

DR Maria Vahdati

Summary:

This module introduces the theory and application of thermodynamics and heat transfer in Architectural Engineering and preparing students to the next level of studying energy and environmental systems in the built environment. Students study and explore different forms of heat transfer, the laws of thermodynamics, the concept of entropy, thermodynamic cycles and develop problem-solving skills essential to good engineering practice for analysing heat transfer and using principles of thermodynamics in real-world applications.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Architectural Design 1

Code:

CE2ADE

Convenor:

DR Mehdi Shahrestani

Summary:

This module is designed to provide students with the opportunity to learn the concept of Architectural Design, through the lenses of environmental engineering. In addition, students learn the critical approach to architectural design that incorporates the aesthetic aspects of design and its technical requirements as well as its environmental impacts. Students also learn how to define the requirements of end users and project stakeholders in the architectural design. This module uses the knowledge obtained from the History of the Built Environment: Space, Design, and Technology module to learn about contemporary architectural theories, practice and ideas.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Building Services 2: Fundamentals

Code:

CE2BSF

Convenor:

DR Mehdi Shahrestani

Summary:

This module introduces the fundamental concepts of building services including acoustic, lighting, drainage, and water system design together with principals of heating, cooling and ventilation systems.

In addition, students will be able to further apply their acquired knowledge in the module of “Design project 2 (CE2-DPR)” that will be delivered in the spring term as well as the module of “Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Design (CE3HVA)”in part 3.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Set exercise 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Building Pathology

Code:

CE2CBP

Convenor:

MR Adrian Tagg

Summary:

The study of the decay of buildings.

Assessment Method:

Exam 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Management in the Built Environment

Code:

CE2CMB

Convenor:

DR Shabnam Kabiri

Summary:

An introduction and study of the application of management techniques in the built environment. There is an emphasis on projects and project management. 

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Assignment 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Design Project 2

Code:

CE2DPR

Convenor:

DR Maria Vahdati

Summary:

This module is designed to provide students with the opportunity to learn from problem-based teaching and learning approaches. Students will work in teams to address engineering problems. These problems will be structured in a way to give students an opportunity to apply their architectural design skills, Fluids Mechanics theory, fundamentals of building services and concepts of building pathology in a project. In addition, students will be provided with the opportunity to develop their teamworking skills and learn from each other and developed their critical thinking as well as research skills.

Assessment Method:

Oral 10%, Project 90%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Engineering Mathematics 2

Code:

CE2EMA

Convenor:

PROF Li Shao

Summary:

This module will enhance the previous mathematical knowledge of students gained in the module of Engineering Mathematics 1 (CE1EMA) and further develop mathematical theory and techniques that are applicable to Architectural Engineering. This module introduces a wide range of mathematical contents relevant to solve engineering problems including, complex numbers, calculus, functions, linear algebra, and probability. All mathematical techniques in this module will be introduced within the engineering context. The mathematical contents of this module will be further applied to solve engineering problems in the module of Numerical Modelling and Programming 2 (CE2NMP) and the module of Design Project 2 (CE2DPR).

Assessment Method:

Exam 60%, Set exercise 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Fluids Mechanics: theory and application

Code:

CE2FMT

Convenor:

DR Maria Vahdati

Summary:

This module introduces the fundamental conservation equations of mass, momentum and energy. In this module the concept of fully developed incompressible flows IS introduced and the reduced Navier-Stokes equations are derived. Then these fundamental equations together with fluid mechanics techniques will be used to study the behaviour of fluids in engineering applications including forces exerted by a static fluid on immersed surfaces, the flow of fluids through pipelines and pressure vessels together with the behaviour of hydraulic machines, hydro and wind power generation systems.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Set exercise 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Numerical modelling and programming

Code:

CE2NMP

Convenor:

DR Stefan Smith

Summary:

Numerical models are central to solve complex engineering problems, including assessment of thermal behaviour of environmental systems, heat transfer and fluid flows in the built environment. Numerical modelling and programming helps to find approximate solutions for complex, nonlinear problems where analytic solutions are not available such as the study of microclimates. This module introduces the required knowledge for the formulation of equations, approaches to solve them numerically and ways in which the performance of the developed numerical model can be evaluated. This module also uses computer programming tools such as Matlab or Python to apply the numerical models and find the numerical solutions. A key characteristic of this module is that it builds upon knowledge gained in the module of Engineering Mathematics 1 (CE1EMA) and integrates and applies the knowledge obtained in the module of Fluids Mechanics (CE2FMT), Engineering Mathematics2 (CE2EMA) and Building Services 2 (CE2BSF). 

Assessment Method:

Set exercise 30%, Project 70%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Statistical analysis 1

Code:

CE2STS

Convenor:

DR Eugene Mohareb

Summary:

This module introduces key statistical methods to assess real-world engineering problems. It explains how to use basic statistical tools and introduces quantitative data analysis methods that are useful in engineering subjects including Architectural Engineering. Using a number of datasets from a range of science and engineering applications, students will learn practical statistical techniques and fundamental principles, as well as using a software to analyse data. This module leads on to the study of more advanced statistical techniques including probability analysis in the module of Statistical Analysis 2 (CE3STS).

Assessment Method:

Set exercise 40%, Project 60%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Building Technology

Code:

CE2CBT1

Convenor:

DR Alba Fuertes Casals

Summary:

This module builds on the Part 1 modules Construction Technology CE1CCT, Construction Science CE1CCS and Empirical Studies CE1CES. It provides insight into the construction of commercial and other buildings. The module is closely linked to the Projects contained within module CE2CPR.

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Assignment 30%, Class test 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Construction Economics

Code:

CE2CCE

Convenor:

DR Martin Green

Summary:

The subject of the module is the micro and macroeconomics of the construction sector, including cost management and forecasting for the development of construction projects from the client/owner, design team, and contractor’s perspective. The focus is from the concept and the early design stage, through the design and construction process, and into occupancy. 

Assessment Method:

Exam 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Construction Contract Law

Code:

CE2CCL2

Convenor:

DR Ronan Champion

Summary:

Construction work is typically carried out through contracting with a variety of different firms, connected through a complex network of contracts. Construction contract management encompasses the institutional infrastructure of the industry in terms of its impact on the production of standard-form contracts, the influence of procurement methods on contractual networks, common roles and responsibilities of stakeholders, and a consideration of contract choice and risk allocation.

Assessment Method:

Exam 40%, Assignment 30%, Set exercise 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Research Skills

Code:

CE2CRS

Convenor:

DR Ian Ewart

Summary:

Understanding the process of doing research is essential preparation for the final year dissertation. This module will give students the grounding in research methods, data collection and analysis, and the process of writing a dissertation. It is delivered by active research staff with a mix of lectures, group work and hands-on activities. During the module students will gain key research skills, develop ideas for a research project, prepare a dissertation proposal, and find out about the range of research activities going on within the School of the Built Environment.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 80%, Set exercise 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Digital Technology Use in Construction

Code:

CE3CDT

Convenor:

DR Dragana Nikolic

Summary:

Digital technologies rapidly change the way we build, manage, and interact with facilities and the built environment. Life cycle information modelling of built facilities offers exciting new opportunities for their integrated delivery and management. However, technological advances also bring numerous challenges and social resistance to change. This module will explore how digital technologies and collaborative information modelling initiatives such as those promoted by the UK BIM agenda, shape construction; what difficulties companies are facing; and in this process expose students to some common technology- and process-related implementation challenges they will face in the industry.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 60%, Set exercise 5%, Project 35%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Inclusive Environments

Code:

CE3CIE

Convenor:

MR Adrian Tagg

Summary:

An examination of the issues that relate to inclusion and accessibility and the legislation relevant to such matters will lead to an assessment of the suitability of various elements of building provision and facilities in assisting or hindering the ability of people to use the built environment, an environment encluding public access buildings, housing and transport.

Assessment Method:

Report 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Health and Safety Management and Culture in Construction

Code:

CE3CHS

Convenor:

DR Dylan Tutt

Summary:

Construction projects involve multiple contractors, trades and personnel from diverse backgrounds, who need to temporarily work together in a complex and constantly changing environment. These high levels of organizational, technological and cultural differentiation create substantial challenges for the management of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS). In the labour-intensive sector of construction, with a heavy reliance on subcontracting, research indicates that those at the bottom of the contractual chain bear the most significant consequences when things go wrong. This module provides a critical examination of the contemporary OHS landscape, exploring the causes of OHS hazards, introducing risk management and some of the challenges of integrating OHS into construction project management. It encourages students to develop a holistic approach to the management of OHS risks.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Management of Construction Projects

Code:

CE3CME

Convenor:

PROF Martin Guy Sexton

Summary:

This module aims to provide the knowledge and skills to understand the different approaches to managing construction projects. Using the systems approach as a touchstone, the module covers the key ingredients of project management such as the principle roles, briefing, managing the client and the team, understanding the structural choices and the contextual setting, whilst emphasising the softer skills required. The module therefore provides an over-arching understanding of the processes of project management and the competencies of a project manager.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Oral 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Green Innovation in Construction

Code:

CE3GIC

Convenor:

DR Shu-Ling Lu

Summary:

This module equips students with leading-edge knowledge and practices on the innovation strategies being deployed by construction companies to respond to the critically important low-carbon agenda. The module demonstrates how environmental policies, company strategies and new sustainable technologies are all closely interconnected and how construction companies are strategically managing the profound innovation challenges these complex interactions create. Throughout the module detailed cases studies are used to bring to life key issues. The cases are drawn from research projects being undertaken by members of the module delivery team in the low-carbon area in collaboration with leading construction companies.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Set exercise 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Renewable Energy Systems A

Code:

CEM16A

Convenor:

DR Maria Vahdati

Summary:

This module is concerned with renewable energy technologies. In CEM16A, these include two of the following technologies: biomass, solar, wind and hydro (including marine energy). Technical, environmental and social issues are considered. Technical and non-technical barriers and issues limiting widespread use of renewable energy are discussed. Assessment through laboratory work, use of energy software and group activities give students an opportunity to examine and analyse data as well as to investigate issues concerned with the use of renewable energy.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 35%, Practical 45%, Oral 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Engineering Research and Dissertation

Code:

CEM18B

Convenor:

PROF Runming Yao

Summary:

Students are provided with academic supervision to support their dissertation research and writing on a topic of their choice.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 90%, Oral 10%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Urban Microclimates

Code:

CEM223

Convenor:

DR Christos Halios

Summary:

The module introduces the basic physics as well as the up-to-date advances on urban microclimates including urban fluid mechanics, energy balance, solar radiation, acoustic etc, and evaluates how the urban surroundings interact with buildings. It will also address the application of urban microclimate principles to guide and assess urban climate planning.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 80%, Oral 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

ICT and Energy Management

Code:

CEM226

Convenor:

PROF Li Shao

Summary:

The substantial gap between design and in-use performances affects a wide range of newbuild and retrofit projects as well individual energy technologies. Against this background, energy monitoring and management offers major energy saving potential. Based on ICT and sensor technologies, energy monitoring and management integrates the optimisation of building energy systems with the engagement of users and FM in the process. This module will address these technology and user issues in a systematic way.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 80%, Set exercise 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

An Introduction to Project Management

Code:

CEM201

Convenor:

PROF Stuart Green

Summary:

The construction industry is primarily a project-based industry and this module addresses the key principles that characterise projects. The principles of project management are applicable at all levels of the project hierarchy, ranging from individual work packages through to the provision of a single point of responsibility on behalf of the client. Effective project management is central not only to project performance, but also to performance at the industry level. The last few decades have seen significant changes in the way that projects are managed. Traditionally fragmented approaches have given way to the provision of an integrated project management approach that delivers construction projects to required standards of time, cost and quality. The technical complexities of modern buildings and the demands of client organisations require an increasingly sophisticated service from project managers.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Construction Project Management

Code:

CEM202

Convenor:

DR Shabnam Kabiri

Summary:

The construction sector provides infrastructure and facilities to all other economic sectors. In this module we address the key principles of managing the supply side of this provision. Construction work is typically oriented around projects and the supply chain is extensive. In this kind of business environment, a key requirement is to manage the delivery of specific obligations within the parameters of specific objectives. Moreover, the success of the business depends on the ability to manage the demands of a variety of simultaneous projects. Effective project management is essential to business success. Managing a number of projects, in sequence and in parallel, especially so. Thus, the focus in this module is on the interface between delivering successful projects and managing the flow and balance between projects in order to maintain a successful business.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 65%, Report 35%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

International Construction

Code:

CEM204

Convenor:

PROF Roger Flanagan

Summary:

The module gives an overview of the scale and scope of design, engineering, and construction work in the global construction market. Consideration is given to the structure of the different construction markets and the influence of culture, climate, geology, the regulatory framework of codes and standards, compliance and ethical behaviour. Different approaches are considered to the procurement of professional services and construction work. Examining how international construction companies operate in the global construction market and how they manage risks in project delivery.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 90%, Oral 10%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Human Resource Management

Code:

CEM205

Convenor:

DR Florence Phua

Summary:

Effective human resource management (HRM) contributes significantly to overall organizational performance. People are a key source of a firm’s competitive advantage and so, the processes, practices, and implications of HRM must be considered seriously. However, due to a range of practical pressures and factors that are either associated with or embedded within the industry, the vital role of HRM in construction is often overlooked.  The module will cover the essential elements of HRM and their implementation in the UK and international construction industry. It draws substantially on HRM concepts, theories and practices from different industries to facilitate understanding of the issues and concerns that are applicable to both construction and non-construction firms. It will explain and clarify how an informed, well-structured and participative approach to HRM can deliver substantial benefits to all stakeholders: employers and employees as well as their shareholders and clients.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Construction Contract Law

Code:

CEM206

Convenor:

DR Ronan Champion

Summary:

The procurement of construction work takes place within specific legislative frameworks. Contracts result from agreements between businesses for all forms of consultancy and construction work, whether they are formally written or not. New developments in statutes, court cases and standard form contracting have a significant impact on the kinds of deals that take place in the construction industry. Also, new business processes promote new ways of working and collaborative business arrangements that require a deeper understanding of the way that business participants interact in the construction process. The construction industry is characterised by the way that each participant typically works for a different practice or firm, and they are all expected to work together, usually under the terms of business contracts (formal or informal) within the statutory framework that prevails. This module seeks to explain the statutory and contractual context of contracts in construction, in order that the students will be able to recognise and confront the kinds of problem that can get in the way of successful contract management.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 50%, Class test 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Managing Construction

Code:

CEM209

Convenor:

PROF Roger Flanagan

Summary:

The management of construction work requires a broad overview of management and organisational theories applied to the construction sector from the perspective of the project delivery team. While most of the work in the construction sector takes place on projects, the people who contribute to projects work in firms and other organisations. The module considers the importance of safety and health, production planning, logistics, environmental requirements, temporary works, quality assurance, and the management of the supply chain. The interfaces between various levels in construction organisations are made more complex because the work is done through projects. This module explores the complex interfaces in the management and organisation of construction work. It considers the changing nature of project delivery on the job site, with consideration of the regulatory environment and compliance requirements. Innovative approaches to project delivery will be explored.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

People, Information and Technology

Code:

CEM210

Convenor:

DR Ian Ewart

Summary:

The proliferation of digital data, and the rapid development of tools and technologies to collect, analyse and disseminate it, are opening up new opportunities for the Architecture Engineering and Construction sectors (AEC). However, this is set against the need for information that is relevant, accessible and useful at a human scale. Balancing developments in digital technologies with specific user requirements, forces us to think about why and how data is collected, and how it can be presented in useable ways.

Blending social science methods with modern digital technologies, we will examine the relationship between people and the information that circulates in an AEC setting. Students will learn about and use digital tools and technologies to produce models and representations of the built environment, whilst also engaging with the built environment as perceptive human beings.

Assessment Method:

Oral 40%, Project 60%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Infrastructure Development

Code:

CEM215

Convenor:

PROF Tabarak Ballal

Summary:

To meet the challenges of rapidly growing urban communities and cities, infrastructure development projects need to be responsive, inclusive and sustainable. It is therefore essential to understand the planning, finance and delivery of these projects and the challenges associated with meeting development goals in increasingly complex and uncertain contexts. Decision-making processes of infrastructure projects must respond to the specifics of the local context (including local knowledge, culture, legal and institutional frameworks, industry characteristics, funding models, procurement methods and so on).

Assessment Method:

Assignment 70%, Oral 10%, Set exercise 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

International Construction Labour

Code:

CEM216

Convenor:

DR Dylan Tutt

Summary:

‘Emerging economies’ are a highly heterogeneous mix. Oil rich countries are often grouped along with the newly industrialised countries and even declining economies. While globalisation, urbanisation and infrastructure renewal is expected to stimulate growth in emerging markets over the next decade, there are also common accompanying problems of geographical and societal inequality, cultural dislocation and labour exploitation. Construction is a labour-intensive industry, but issues of implementing effective OH&S and construction management (especially of vulnerable workers) are particularly crucial where the huge potential of markets for investment are accompanied by huge resources of low cost labour. This module will encourage a critical examination of international construction labour markets and the role of migrant workers and emerging economies. 

Assessment Method:

Assignment 90%, Oral 10%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Construction Sector Transition

Code:

CEM217

Convenor:

DR Shu-Ling Lu

Summary:

This module equips students with leading-edge knowledge on transition management approaches to bring about successful construction sector reform in a country. The module demonstrates how construction sector policies, company strategies and new technologies are all closely interconnected and the profound transition management challenges these complex interactions create. Throughout the module detailed cases studies are used to bring to life key issues. The cases are drawn from research projects being undertaken by members of the module delivery team in the transition management area.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 80%, Oral 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Urban Sustainability

Code:

CEM220

Convenor:

DR Rory Jones

Summary:

This module develops an awareness and knowledge of how the principles of sustainable development can be applied in an integrated and holistic way at city level.

Assessment Method:

Project 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Energy in Buildings

Code:

CEM221

Convenor:

DR Mehdi Shahrestani

Summary:

Buildings account for more than 40% of total energy consumption in most countries. Considering this significant energy consumption, this module will provide an overview of the energy policies, demand and supply load profiles in buildings and also will address the main approaches to assess and improve the energy performance of buildings. In addition, sustainable and renewable energy generation technologies applicable to buildings will be introduced and the potential capability of these technologies to mitigate the building energy related CO2 emissions will be discussed. Moreover, this module will address the building energy systems and the concept of heat transfer together with detailed analysis of the heating, cooling and ventilation processes.

Assessment Method:

Exam 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Carbon Management

Code:

CEM224

Convenor:

DR Michael Peters

Summary:

Climate change presents a pressing and complex global challenge, which can be addressed through some combination of adapting human systems to withstand future impacts and mitigating the worst effects of climate change by reducing emissions of greenhouse gases. This module concentrates on the role of carbon management for countries, businesses and individuals in responding to the need for climate change mitigation. Attention is given to the level of certainty in climate science and the implications this has for global and local action. Policy tools for achieving carbon reduction and the role of the energy supply system are considered, alongside technological options for carbon sequestration.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Building Information Modelling

Code:

CEM225

Convenor:

DR Laura Maftei

Summary:

The module introduces and explores Building Information Modelling (BIM) as sets of standard processes for managing information across delivery, operations and handover. The course addresses BIM as collaborative process, supported by a range of technologies, and introduces concepts of structured collaboration, data exchange, interoperability, and life cycle information management, in lectures and through group work. Emphasis is placed on the UK BS / PAS 1192 suite of standards as an example of BIM process, although international alternatives are discussed.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 65%, Project 35%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Construction Economics

Code:

CEM228

Convenor:

PROF John Connaughton

Summary:

This module covers construction economics at three broad levels.  The Macro level deals with the role of the construction industry in the national economy and the impact of macro-economic policies and developments on the property and construction sectors.  The Meso level focuses specifically on the size, structure and performance of the construction industry, and how it compares to other sectors.  And the Micro level deals with the economic performance and behaviour of construction firms and the economics of construction projects, in their respective markets. 

Assessment Method:

Assignment 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Green Building Assessment

Code:

CEM229

Convenor:

DR Zhiwen Luo

Summary:

This module integrates the BREEAM assessment training workshops/tutorials into the module design. It covers assessment methodology, Interntional GBA scheme such as BREEAM, and GBA case stdies. The major teaching approaches are lectures,workshops and tutorials. Students will be trained to be able to evaluate ‘green performance’ of a real building using green building assessment tools. 

Assessment Method:

Assignment 80%, Oral 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Design Management

Code:

CEM230

Convenor:

PROF John Connaughton

Summary:

This module is designed to develop an understanding of current and developing approaches to design management in construction. Participants will gain an appreciation of the management of design processes and the essential conflict between creative design and the need for management and control. The module will introduce a range of practical measures for effective design management.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 80%, Set exercise 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Urban Energy Systems

Code:

CEM233

Convenor:

DR Maria Vahdati

Summary:

Emerging technologies, especially alternative vehicles and electricity based heating systems, have potential to bring a rapid change in demand on urban energy systems. Such changes need to be understood at district and city scales and may also be best managed at these scales. This module will consider the possible impacts of such changes and appropriate mitigation approaches, including the emergence of smarter energy grids. A particular focus is given to the rapidly changing role of energy distribution networks. Consideration of urban energy systems is used to introduce wider systems thinking approaches that offer new insights and currently have an evolving place in energy and sustainability research. Wider aspects of urban sustainability specifically related to energy use are also addressed.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 80%, Set exercise 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Engineering Project Management

Code:

CEM235

Convenor:

PROFESSOR Irem Dikmen

Summary:

Engineering projects have a financial and management context. From the standpoint of management, this module introduces a project management conceptual framework, defining what is meant by a “project” and what comprises the discipline of “project management”. From the financial standpoint two well-known techniques are introduced. First, capital budgeting, which is a technique usually implemented at the beginning of a project to assess its economic feasibility. Second, earned value management, whose main aim is to monitor project progress during the execution phase.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 40%, Set exercise 40%, Class test 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Energy and the Environment

Code:

CEM241

Convenor:

DR Mate Janos Lorincz

Summary:

Energy underpins our current standard of living and economic development. The environmental impact of energy use and transition to a lower carbon economy presents significant challenges. This module is concerned with the technical, environmental, economic and social issues associated with the production of energy. It includes an overview of energy production and consumption trends, traditional means of energy production, renewable energy, sustainability, environmental issues and political and economic concepts in energy. Students are able to explore a range of energy related issues through conducting research for one assessed report.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Advanced Visualisation and Interactive Technologies

Code:

CEM242

Convenor:

DR Dragana Nikolic

Summary:

Practitioners in the architecture, engineering and construction (ACE) disciplines often find that no single drawing, graphic or tool best represents a given idea, concept or project. However, to evaluate a project at any stage, engineers, designers and stakeholders need to visualize project progress in a way that allows them to easily interact with, understand, critique and revise the work. One of these methods, virtual prototyping, tailors information representation for users and affords a level of interactivity that can assist the decision-making process at any point in the design and construction process (e.g. conceptual design diagrams for initial project phases or photo realistic representation at final phases). The purpose of this module is to introduce students to different interactive virtual, digital and physical prototyping tools and technologies used in the architecture, construction and engineering fields, particularly those related to building information modelling (BIM) and visualisation. Through a review of current research and applications of virtual reality and interactive technologies, the goal is to discern and evaluate the rationale for their use, and further explore methods to apply innovative approaches to support users in a given context of use.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 60%, Set exercise 5%, Project 35%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

New Technology, Management and Change

Code:

CEM243

Convenor:

DR Martin Green

Summary:

To gain an understanding of major theoretical approaches to socio-technical systems and to their use in understanding and implementing systems and change in the contexts of built environment and infrastructure teams, projects, firms and the construction sector.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Analysing Construction Processes

Code:

CEM244

Convenor:

DR Ruth Dowsett

Summary:

To gain relevant knowledge and skills to analyse construction processes and structures and develop abstracted and systemic forms of representation and understanding.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Strategic Management

Code:

CEM302

Convenor:

PROF Stuart Green

Summary:

Strategic management is the continuous planning, monitoring, analysis and assessment of all that is necessary for an organisation to meet its goals and objectives. Strategic management involves setting objectives, analysing the competitive environment, analysing the internal organization, evaluating strategies, and ensuring that management follows the strategies across the organisation.
Strategic Management aims to prepare current and future managers of private and public service organisations for leadership roles by focusing on the knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes needed to manage organisations strategically. This module is focused on the construction sector, it embodies both strategic planning and leadership issues.
Strategic planning is an organisational management activity that is used to set priorities, focus energy and resources, strengthen operations, ensure that employees and other stakeholders are working toward common goals, and establish agreement around intended outcomes/results.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Life Cycle Assessment

Code:

CEM319

Convenor:

DR Eugene Mohareb

Summary:

This module introduces the concept of life cycle assessment (LCA), methodological approaches for completing an LCA study, reviews prominent studies and provides students with the opportunity to critically review an LCA study of their choosing.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 60%, Oral 20%, Report 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Real Estate Development: Appraisal and Analysis

Code:

CEM335

Convenor:

PROF Pat McAllister

Summary:

This module provides a course of study that focuses on the financing and financial appraisal of real estate development projects.  The module aims to provide students with an understanding of:

• the investment mathematics underpinning the financial modelling of development appraisal projects; 
• the main development appraisal techniques;
• and the financing of real estate development projects.

The content of the module is focused on the financial appraisal of real estate development projects. Students will develop a practical and applied understanding of real estate development appraisal which includes an introduction to basic financial mathematics.

This module is delivered at the University of Reading only.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.