If you are engaged in a construction-related profession or you want a career in construction project management, this Masters course will develop the skills and knowledge you need to be successful. Accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), the MSc Construction Project Management course is practice-based and research focused.
The practice element adopts a problem-solving approach to complex and strategic issues that often arise on construction projects. You will get involved in case studies utilising completed and ongoing projects. The research focus is supplied through research-active staff who are directly involved in course development and delivery, along with contributions from visiting research fellows, guest lecturers and professionals.
2021/22 update: Blended learning approach for USW courses.
[Update excludes online-only courses].
The wellbeing and health and safety of our students and staff is paramount to us. We are committed to delivering all of our courses and services as safely as possible. Due to the pandemic, the methods and activities adopted for the coming year may differ from those previously published and may be subject to further change through the course of your study if such change is necessary due to public health concerns, health and safety guidance or in response to Government Guidelines. USW is committed to providing you with a fantastic student experience and a wealth of support, and you can hear how students have benefitted from this approach here: Learn more about blended learning.
What you will study?
You will study the following modules and a dissertation:
- Project Management 1 Theory and Practice
Project Management is an important skill for any professional. This module sets down the bedrock for understanding the principles of project management. The content will examine the lifecycle of a project and consider how well established management theories can be applied to provide a successful outcome. The focus will consider both a management framework and a range of effective techniques that help to plan, control and deliver a project on time, at cost and within quality scope. - Project Management 2 Planning and Control
This module builds on the knowledge previously acquired and contextualises it within a series of case studies. Students are encouraged to examine real life construction scenarios and draw conclusions as to how they would best manage the situations presented to them.
- 3D Building Information Modelling
In 2016 the UK Government made it mandatory for all publically-funded projects to use Level 2 BIM. But what is BIM? This module will explain BIM, the BIM process, and explains how BIM can be used throughout the different stages of a Project from Inception to Occupancy. Furthermore, it gives the students hands-on experience of using one of the software packages (Revit) currently used in order to produce a virtual 3D Building Information Model. - Construction Laws and Practice
This module focusses on key aspects of domestic and international construction contracts and the responsibilities of key members of the construction team. The module also places strong emphasis on avoiding, managing and resolving disputes and the importance of collaboration amongst the contracting teams. - Financial Management for Construction and Real Estate
The module explores the varying factors that drive end value in a construction context, developing an understanding between costs and price. A variety of financial appraisal techniques are explored and applied using technology, in order to better understand and therefore manage the construction management process in a more informed way. - Management Systems for Project Managers
This module will give students a detailed understanding of the requirements of effective management systems and how they apply to project managers in the construction sector. Focus will be in the three areas of Health and Safety; Quality and Environmental Management. It will explore the role of the organisation and the individual by considering both corporate and individual responsibility for the management of the various disciplines. Study will consider integrated systems as well as reflecting on the stand-alone application of arrangements to meet organisational obligations. - Individual Dissertation
The dissertation is a chance for students to work on a piece of research focused upon individual their interests within the course. Students will be encouraged and guided by individual supervisors to use appropriate resources to undertake a major, comprehensive, innovative piece of investigative research. Assistance will be provided to develop and demonstrate the ability to gather extensive evidence, carry out a thorough and in depth critical analysis, produce sustained argument(s) and synthesise the findings of the research in a professional manner.
Teaching
The MSc Construction Project Management course is delivered in three major blocks that offer an intensive but flexible learning pattern, with two start points each year for full time students– February and September. Part time study begins in September only. Tuition combines traditional lectures and tutorials with problem-based learning through workshops and site visits.
Assessment
Some modules are continuously assessed, while others use coursework and examination. Assessment methods also vary and include written reports and coursework, project work and presentations.
Most submissions will be your individual work, but some may involve teamwork assessment. The Masters element requires completion of a substantial dissertation based on your individual research. Part-time students have the option of a fast-track route by completing their dissertation over the summer at the end of their second year.
Course details
Accreditations
The Construction Project Management course is accredited by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), which provides the world’s leading professional qualification in land, property, construction and the associated environmental issues. Once you have completed two years (typically) of qualifying practice you can take the Assessment of Professional Competence. If successful you will become a fully qualified Chartered Surveyor.
The MSc Construction Project Management is accredited as meeting the requirements for Further Learning for a Chartered Engineer (CEng) for candidates who have already acquired an Accredited CEng (Partial) BEng (Hons) undergraduate first degree. See www.jbm.org.uk for further information.
Facilities
Students have access to the latest industry BIM and CAD Design software including Revit, ArchiCAD and VectaWorks.