Program Overview

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Construction Management - PgCert, PgDip, MSc

Overview

Upskilling construction managers and industry leaders to excel in a rapidly evolving sector

Summary

The construction industry is evolving dramatically in terms of how complex projects are planned, procured, financed and delivered. Competent construction managers are in high demand and must be at the forefront of this change. This course will develop the core competencies required for you to take a lead in the delivery of built assets that will help shape future resilient, healthy and sustainable communities. You will explore a range of topical issues centred around the core themes of project, financial and dispute management; construction procurement; organisation and leadership; legal studies; and built asset management.

Ranked 5th in the UK for courses related to ‘Building’ (The Sunday Times, 2019; Complete University Guide 2020) and with 100% of our built environment-linked impact and research ranked as world leading and internationally excellent (REF 2014), Ulster University is one of the top choices for studying construction management. Your studies will be centred around challenging real-life case studies and delivered by academic staff with considerable hands on experience and prominent guest lectures from industry. The course is practically focussed, overseen by a panel of experts from leading construction companies and is aimed wholly at boosting your managerial-level career prospects.

This course is suitable for both recent graduates and working professionals from a range of fields including architecture, building, engineering, quantity surveying, structural engineering, facilities maintenance and town planning.

About this course

Attendance

In conventional full-time study mode (commencing in September), you will complete all modules within one academic year to graduate with an MSc degree. This will include four taught modules in Semesters 1 (Sep-Jan), four taught modules in Semester 2 (Jan-May) and a dissertation module in Semester 3 (May-Sep).

If you commence the course in January, completion will take approximately a year and a half to graduate with an MSc degree. This will include four taught modules in Semester 2 (Jan-May) of academic year 1, and four taught modules in Semester 1 (Sep-Jan) and a dissertation module in Semester 2 (January-May/June) of academic year 2.

Irrespective of when you commence, you can alternatively graduate with a Postgraduate Diploma (eight taught modules across Semesters 1 and 2) or a Postgraduate Certificate (four taught modules in Semester 1 and/or 2).

Attendance in your first two semesters will be predominantly classroom-based, with teaching for each module being delivered on a weekly basis, typically requiring 4-5 days attendance on campus.

In addition to timetabled classroom sessions, sufficient time will be provided each week for self-directed study and to undertake assignments and coursework.

Attendance in your third semester will be more flexible, typically involving regular scheduled meetings with your assigned supervisor to discuss progress with your individual dissertation project.

Start dates

• September 2026
• January 2027

Teaching, Learning and Assessment

Teaching is delivered primarily through lectures, case study investigations, simulations, tutorials, computer laboratory workshops, group work assignments and seminars, as well as presentations from industry professionals.

Course materials will be available online, offering you flexibility to study at your own pace, place and time. One-to-one sessions with tutors will also be provided to support your learning.

We strive to incorporate teaching methods that encourage and reward logical and lateral thinking, individual reading, an investigative spirit, synthesis of interrelated topics, critical reflection and reasoned judgements based on available evidence.

Your work will be 100% coursework based allowing continual feedback on your progress. Examples of coursework submissions include written essays, oral/poster presentations and contributions to problem-based simulation exercises.

Modules

Here is a guide to the subjects studied on this course.

Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.

Year one

Built Asset Management

Year: 1

Status: C

This module is designed to consider how property assets should be managed to support organisational objectives. The strategic interaction between the organisation and the alignment of their property requirements is analysed, as is the process of planning and managing property resources to maximise organisational requirements. Finally, the operational aspects of built assets are studied to consider life cycle, maintenance and facilities management.

Infrastructure finance and investment

Year: 1

Status: C

Infrastructure investment is critical to the vibrant functioning of society. Ergo every citizen is impacted by the investment made into infrastructure projects. Despite the prime importance of infrastructure investment, nationally governments cannot fund all of society's infrastructure requirements.

This module explores the key models on financing major projects and infrastructure works whilst critically acknowledging the inherent challenges in successfully securing the necessary funding. Fundamentally this module delivers robust, innovative, and contemporary solutions to the financing and investment in major and infrastructure projects.

Organisation and Management: Thinking Differently

Year: 1

Status: C

This module has been designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of modern construction business organisation and management, including investigating key business management components such as Business formation, Marketing, Research & Development, Recruitment; Management - functions, roles, skills and competencies. Problem-solving and decision-making; Organisational culture, behavioural influences, motivation, and performance; Conflict and creativity; Individual development, group dynamics and leadership. Practical applications and case studies of relevant practice are used to enhance the learning experience and students are challenged to view, reflect and think differently about themselves, their work, their profession and the construction industry.

Sustainable Procurement of Infrastructure

Year: 1

Status: C

This module has been designed to provide you with a robust appreciation of the importance of infrastructure to all in society. In doing so, you will be able to discern the key stakeholders involved in procuring infrastructure and acknowledge the inherent challenges facing stakeholders in successfully procuring infrastructure.

You will be given the opportunity to appraise the innovative and best practice methods of procuring infrastructure, both nationally and regionally. Furthermore, this module, will provide you the opportunity to discuss the challenges of governance, economic, social, environment and legal issues , on the long term procurement and delivery of essential infrastructure and major projects.

Construction Legal Studies

Year: 1

Status: C

This module examines underpinning legal principles and concepts that impact upon and influence the way that construction projects are managed and delivered. Express contractual provisions of construction contracts are evaluated to understand how risk is managed and apportioned between the respective parties. The roles and responsibilities of those involved in the execution and administration of construction projects are considered in a sustainable manner taking into consideration the selected contract strategy.

Project Management

Year: 1

Status: C

The module is designed to provide a postgraduate multi disciplinary learning experience on the subject of Project Management. It introduces the concepts of Project Management, examines the recognised practices and accepted principles involved in the project management function, and combines these with an understanding of the increasingly demanding multi-dimensional aspects of the discipline. It provides an overall project orientated management framework (theoretical tempered with world best practice) with local, national and international dimensions within which you can develop your knowledge / understanding and key professional competencies.

Project Leadership for Construction Professionals

Year: 1

Status: C

This module is designed for students who wish to gain an understanding of key leadership tools and skills in order to develop their own personal leadership capabilities to deliver project and company objectives within the Construction industry.

Research Design and Dissertation

Year: 1

Status: C

This module enables the student to undertake an independent in-depth study of a particular aspect of Construction Management. It facilitates development of skills in problem solving and decision making whilst also refining other skills including investigative and evaluative skills. Students are required to demonstrate their knowledge of the subject researched, skills in critical analysis and use of investigative methods. Students are required to display these skills in written and oral format that will clearly display analysis of the principal arguments and conclusions of their work.

Contract Communication and Dispute Management

Year: 1

Status: C

This module provides students with an insight into the myriad of issues associated with contractors' claims. From the administration of the construction contract to the eventual resolution of the disputed matters, students obtain a comprehensive understanding of the entire process. The practical application of the construction contract provisions, together with the applicable legal principles provides for a positive learning experience that is transferable to professional practice.

Standard entry conditions

We recognise a range of qualifications for admission to our courses. In addition to the specific entry conditions for this course you must also meet the University’s General Entrance Requirements.

Entry Requirements

Applicants must hold a degree or equivalent, or demonstrate their ability to undertake the course through the accreditation of prior experiential learning. The specific requirements for admission are detailed below:

• An Honours or non-Honours degree in an appropriate science, engineering or built environment discipline from a recognised educational institution from a University of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, from the Council for National Academic Awards, the National Council for Educational Awards, the Higher Education and Training Awards Council, or from an institution of another country which is recognised as being of an equivalent standard.
• or
• an equivalent standard in a Postgraduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma, Graduate Certificate in an appropriate science, engineering or built environment discipline from a recognised educational institution or an approved alternative qualification
• and
• satisfy the University’s general entry requirements including evidence of the required level of numeracy (GCSE grade C or equivalent);

Please note that for purposes of entry to this course the Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills - Application of Number is NOT regarded as an acceptable alternative to GCSE Maths.

Exceptionally, we will admit students with non-construction related qualifications provided they have significant industry / professional experience.

In exceptional circumstances, where an individual has substantial and significant experiential learning, a portfolio of written evidence demonstrating the meeting of the graduate qualities (including subject-specific outcomes, specified by the Course Committee) may be considered as an alternative entrance route. Evidence used to demonstrate graduate qualities may not be used for an exemption against modules within the programme.

English Language Requirements

The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.

Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.

Careers & opportunities

Career options

Our graduates find employment locally, nationally and internationally with construction, consulting and client organisations.

In addition to the UK and Ireland, alumini of the course are working as far afield as Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia, China, Australia, New Zealand, Butan, Nepal, India, Pakistan, the Caribbean, Mexico, Guatemala, Venezuela, Peru, Israel, Jordan, Qatar, Bahrain, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Nigeria, Botswana, Kenya, Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, Poland, Estonia, Azerbaijan, Canada and the United States of America.

Others have opted to pursue a research path and have successfully obtained doctorates before embarking on an academic career.

Work placement / study abroad

There is no formal opportunity for work placement or study abroad when studying in full-time mode.

If more appropriate, you can complete the course in part-time study mode over a three-year period; an approach enabling a more flexible combination of work and study.

Professional Recognition

Accreditations reflect the excellence of our teaching, research, and knowledge exchange and ensure our programmes realise the highest expectations. By studying at Ulster University you’ll gain insight and be at the forefront of current industry practices, while our many accredited degree programmes open doors to the world’s top professional organisations, making you more attractive to future employers and giving you a competitive edge in the job market.

Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)

Accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) for the purpose of graduate membership.

Fees and funding

10% Alumni Discount

Are you a graduate of Ulster University? Did you know you could be eligible for a 10% fees discount.

Tuition Fee Loans Available

Students domiciled in Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and UK students can apply to Student Finance NI for a Tuition Fee loan of up to £6,500 (subject to eligibility).

2026/27 Fees

Postgraduate fees are subject to annual review, 2026/27 fees will be announced in due course.

See our tuition fees page for the current fees for 2025/26 entry.

Scholarships, awards and prizes

For additional information on the breakdown of Postgraduate fees, please visit;

The course is well supported by local industry and student performance is recognised each year at a high-profile awards ceremony attended by supporting companies, organisations and alumni.

Examples of annual prizes include:

• William Bald - prize for infrastructure-related dissertations
• Quigg Golden - prize for construction law and practice-related dissertations
• Association for Project Management (NI Branch) - prize for overall performance
• Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors - prize for dissertations

View Available Scholarships

See if you can access financial or other forms of support, including mentorship to excel in your studies.

Search our Scholarships

Additional mandatory costs

It is important to remember that costs associated with accommodation, travel (including car parking charges) and normal living will need to be covered in addition to tuition fees.

Where a course has additional mandatory expenses (in addition to tuition fees) we make every effort to highlight them above. We aim to provide students with the learning materials needed to support their studies. Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. Computer suites and free Wi-Fi are also available on each of the campuses.

There are additional fees for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.

Students choosing a period of paid work placement or study abroad as a part of their course should be aware that there may be additional travel and living costs, as well as tuition fees.

See the tuition fees on our student guide for most up to date costs.