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2022/23
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MSc Digital Design and Construction

  • Year of entry
    2023/24
  • Course duration
    Full Time:  12 months Other: Flexible learning: 18-63 months
  • Year of entry
    2023/24
  • Course duration
    Full Time:  12 months Other: Flexible learning: 18-63 months

With our MSc Digital Design and Construction course you will gain specialist expertise around the implementation and use of digital technologies, such as BIM, in the construction sector.

The management of complex information, using virtual design and construction, BIM, integrated project delivery approaches and intelligent facility and asset management, is no longer simply a specialist set of activities within construction work; it is increasingly central to the design, construction and operation of buildings and infrastructure.

The management of construction is becoming inseparable from the management of information and information technologies; competitive edge, increased efficiency and productivity are being gained through the strategic use of information systems. The implementation and use of these approaches is transforming the way the built environment is delivered, and transforming the managerial competencies that the sector requires.

The distinctive focus is on the implementation and use of digital technologies in the construction sector.

Clients, both public and private, expect integrated and meaningful information to be delivered alongside the physical product. Built environment professionals need to be able to understand information requirements across the life cycle, to develop and implement project and organisational level information management processes, and to manage a diverse range of data and interfaces through the construction process.

This course provides an opportunity to develop expertise in the developing field of information management for built environment and infrastructure. It provides an introduction to fundamental academic subjects related to information management and an understanding of the latest theories and research, which inform emerging vocational practice across design, construction and operation.

The course combines internationally-renowned academic and industry expertise with intensive practical learning, using state of the art technologies within the university's dedicated BIM laboratories and virtual reality facilities. The combination of fundamental understanding, exposure to cutting edge industry practice, and hands-on experience will provide you with the knowledge required to develop successful careers across the construction life cycle.

All of our courses can be undertaken as either a one-year full-time course, or as a flexible modular course. Our courses are delivered on this basis in recognition that you may want to fit your studies around work and other commitments. This course  is accredited by CIOB. (Accreditation is reviewed periodically. Successful  completion of this course satisfies the academic requirements for membership of CIOB).

Visit the School of Construction Management and Engineering's website.

CIOB logo

Overview

With our MSc Digital Design and Construction course you will gain specialist expertise around the implementation and use of digital technologies, such as BIM, in the construction sector.

The management of complex information, using virtual design and construction, BIM, integrated project delivery approaches and intelligent facility and asset management, is no longer simply a specialist set of activities within construction work; it is increasingly central to the design, construction and operation of buildings and infrastructure.

The management of construction is becoming inseparable from the management of information and information technologies; competitive edge, increased efficiency and productivity are being gained through the strategic use of information systems. The implementation and use of these approaches is transforming the way the built environment is delivered, and transforming the managerial competencies that the sector requires.

The distinctive focus is on the implementation and use of digital technologies in the construction sector.

Clients, both public and private, expect integrated and meaningful information to be delivered alongside the physical product. Built environment professionals need to be able to understand information requirements across the life cycle, to develop and implement project and organisational level information management processes, and to manage a diverse range of data and interfaces through the construction process.

This course provides an opportunity to develop expertise in the developing field of information management for built environment and infrastructure. It provides an introduction to fundamental academic subjects related to information management and an understanding of the latest theories and research, which inform emerging vocational practice across design, construction and operation.

The course combines internationally-renowned academic and industry expertise with intensive practical learning, using state of the art technologies within the university's dedicated BIM laboratories and virtual reality facilities. The combination of fundamental understanding, exposure to cutting edge industry practice, and hands-on experience will provide you with the knowledge required to develop successful careers across the construction life cycle.

All of our courses can be undertaken as either a one-year full-time course, or as a flexible modular course. Our courses are delivered on this basis in recognition that you may want to fit your studies around work and other commitments. This course  is accredited by CIOB. (Accreditation is reviewed periodically. Successful  completion of this course satisfies the academic requirements for membership of CIOB).

Visit the School of Construction Management and Engineering's website.

CIOB logo

Entry requirements

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

Entry requirements: Normally a good undergraduate honours degree (good second class or above) or equivalent from a university outside the UK. If you have other qualifications and a number of years’ relevant work experience, you are welcome to apply.

Pre-sessional English language programme

If you need to improve your English language score, you can take a pre-sessional English course prior to entry onto your degree.

  • Find out the English language requirements for our courses and our pre-sessional English programme

Structure

  • Year 1

Compulsory modules include:

X

Module details


Title:

Research skills

Code:

CEM10A

Convenor:

PROF Libby Schweber

Summary:

Students are provided with research skills lectures and workshops to support their dissertation research and writing on a topic of their choice.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 70%, Set exercise 15%, Project 15%

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.

X

Module details


Title:

Research dissertation

Code:

CEM10B

Convenor:

PROF Libby Schweber

Summary:

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

Assessment Method:

Dissertation 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.

X

Module details


Title:

Collaboration, Practice and Innovation

Code:

CEM110

Convenor:

DR Dragana Nikolic

Summary:

This is the key integrating module for the MSc Digital Design and Construction programme. It is based on the idea of integrating learning from core programme modules into a personal, coherent view of digital information management in construction and the built environment. We will investigate the diverse perspectives that different modules bring to this study through two continuous pieces of work running in parallel throughout the programme. First, through the use of reflective writing based on observations of practice and lessons from core modules connected to a recognised professional skills framework. Second, the application of learning from core modules to a case study that explores specific issues in information management and information systems in implementation.

Please note that there are three matching module description forms: CEM110, CEM11A and CEM11B. This is because the A and B versions are the flexible-modular equivalent of the full-time version. The flexible-modular equivalent runs over two years. The only difference between full-time and flexible-modular in relation to assessment is that the assignments for the 40-credit version are split across two years for flexible-modular students into a 15-credit in the first year and a 25-credit version in the second year. The differences in contact hours for these modules relate to the class contact hours.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 50%, Portfolio 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.

X

Module details


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.

X

Module details


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.

X

Module details


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.

X

Module details


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.

X

Module details


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.

Code Module Convenor
CEM10A Research skills PROF Libby Schweber
CEM10B Research dissertation PROF Libby Schweber
CEM110 Collaboration, Practice and Innovation DR Dragana Nikolic
CEM210 People, Information and Technology DR Ian Ewart
CEM225 Building Information Modelling DR Laura Maftei
CEM242 Advanced Visualisation and Interactive Technologies DR Dragana Nikolic
CEM243 New Technology, Management and Change DR Martin Green
CEM244 Analysing Construction Processes DR Ruth Dowsett

Optional modules include:

X

Module details


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.

X

Module details


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.

X

Module details


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.

X

Module details


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.

X

Module details


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.

X

Module details


Title:

Infrastructure Development

Code:

CEM215

Convenor:

DR 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.

X

Module details


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.

X

Module details


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.

X

Module details


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.

X

Module details


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.

X

Module details


Title:

Building Simulation

Code:

CEM222

Convenor:

DR Emmanuel Essah

Summary:

This module briefly introduces theory of heat transfer, overview of building simulations and it is designed to equip students through training and demonstration of an Industry standard software, with skills of computerised modelling and simulation techniques.

The module provides the basis to explore through modelling the mechanism and operational applications of buildings. The Software used is Integrated Environmental Solutions (IES - https://www.iesve.com/).

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.

X

Module details


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.

X

Module details


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.

X

Module details


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.

X

Module details


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.

X

Module details


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.

X

Module details


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.

X

Module details


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.

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Module details


Title:

Construction Cost Engineering

Code:

CEM238

Convenor:

DR Timothy Lees

Summary:

Buildings and related facilities are expensive to construct, maintain, refurbish and operate. Meeting these costs requires significant expenditure and investment by the developer, building owner or the occupier. It is therefore important that these costs are accurately estimated and budgeted for before construction work starts; controlled and planned for during construction as well as forecasted for the operational life of the building.

This is a two-week module that covers the basic principles and techniques of building construction, quantification and measurement of construction work during the first week. The first week of the module covers the fundamentals of construction technology and measurement of construction works. It feeds-forward to the second week of the module, which goes into details of advanced construction technologies, cost planning and commercial management. The first week is particularly targeted at non-cognate students who require a basic understanding of building construction and quantification of construction costs.    

During the second week, the module covers the techniques used to accurately estimate and budget for construction work; control and manage these costs during construction as well as forecast the operational life of the building.

Those students who may already have learned this material on an earlier qualification or have relevant experience within the construction industry may be exempted from the requirement to attend the first week of the module upon provision of a valid and equivalent qualification transcript or employment letter confirming that the student has the required basic knowledge in the area. However, the students will still need to complete the week 1 assessments as they contribute 40% of the overall mark.  The exemption to attend week 1 classes is subject to approval by the Programme Director. There is no exemption to completing the week 1 assessments.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 60%, Set exercise 20%, 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.

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Module details


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.

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Module details


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.

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Module details


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.

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Module details


Title:

Design Pedagogy

Code:

AAMDP

Convenor:

DR Carolina Vasilikou

Summary:

This module provides you with a formal programme in advances in pedagogical models of teaching design with a transdisciplinary approach drawing from the disciplines of architecture, built environment and education. Through this module you will be able to develop a good understanding of the principles of design education and pedagogy, first through research in the field of higher education and, second through practical observational experience with a range of teaching modes and fields in the Architecture undergraduate programme. Students will gain global transferable skills that relate to pedagogical and teaching practices currently embedded in both professional and academic contexts across the built environment disciplines. The module is capped to 18 students.

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.

Code Module Convenor
CEM201 An Introduction to Project Management PROF Stuart Green
CEM204 International Construction PROF Roger Flanagan
CEM205 Human Resource Management DR Florence Phua
CEM206 Construction Contract Law DR Ronan Champion
CEM209 Managing Construction PROF Roger Flanagan
CEM215 Infrastructure Development DR Tabarak Ballal
CEM216 International Construction Labour DR Dylan Tutt
CEM217 Construction Sector Transition DR Shu-Ling Lu
CEM220 Urban Sustainability DR Rory Jones
CEM221 Energy in Buildings DR Mehdi Shahrestani
CEM222 Building Simulation DR Emmanuel Essah
CEM223 Urban Microclimates DR Christos Halios
CEM224 Carbon Management DR Michael Peters
CEM226 ICT and Energy Management PROF Li Shao
CEM228 Construction Economics PROF John Connaughton
CEM230 Design Management PROF John Connaughton
CEM233 Urban Energy Systems DR Maria Vahdati
CEM235 Engineering Project Management PROFESSOR Irem Dikmen
CEM238 Construction Cost Engineering DR Timothy Lees
CEM302 Strategic Management PROF Stuart Green
CEM319 Life Cycle Assessment DR Eugene Mohareb
CEM335 Real Estate Development: Appraisal and Analysis PROF Pat McAllister
AAMDP Design Pedagogy DR Carolina Vasilikou

These are the modules that we currently offer. They may change for your year of study as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Fees

New UK/Republic of Ireland students: £12,100

New international students: £25,800

Tuition fee information

Flexible modular courses (price per 10-credit module):

  • UK/Republic of Ireland students: To be confirmed for 2022
  • International students: To be confirmed for 2022

The fees listed are for full-time study, unless otherwise stated. Fee information will be confirmed in offer letters sent out to successful applicants. You can find further information, including information for part-time study, through our dedicated fees and funding page.

EU student fees

With effect from 1 August 2021, new EU students will pay international tuition fees. For exceptions, please read the UK government’s guidance for EU students.

Additional costs

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 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.

  • See list of Construction Management and Engineering scholarships

Careers

This course is intended for those who wish to develop specialist management expertise in the rapidly growing field of information systems in construction, digital project delivery and virtual design and construction. It is relevant for those seeking to move into specific roles in BIM or information management, as well as to provide a focused advanced management qualification for professionals who recognise the current and future importance of managing information effectively in the sector. This will appeal to both graduates and professionals from a variety of backgrounds, including:

  • Project managers concerned with project information management
  • Construction professionals responsible for the implementation of new technologies in projects and/or construction enterprises
  • Business leaders with an interest in digitally-enabled construction
  • Client representatives seeking to maximise the quality and value of asset information.

Find out what it's like to study MSc Digital Design and Construction at Reading.

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Related Subjects


  • Construction Management and Engineering
  • Project Management

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