Program Overview

---

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 be 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 part-time study mode (i.e. commencing in September), you will complete all modules within three academic years to graduate with an MSc degree. This will include:

• Years 1 and 2: Two taught modules in both Semesters 1 (Sep-Jan) and 2 (Jan-May)
• Year 3: Dissertation module in Semesters 1-2 (Sep-May).

Alternatively, you can graduate with a Postgraduate Diploma (eight taught modules across both Years 1 and 2) or a Postgraduate Certificate (four taught modules in Year 1).

In Years 1 and 2, attendance in semesters 1 and 2 will be predominantly classroom-based, with teaching for each module being delivered on a weekly basis.

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

In Year 3, attendance will be more flexible, typically involving regular scheduled meetings with your assigned supervisor to discuss progress with your individual dissertation project.

Start dates

• September 2025
• January 2026

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

Year one

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.

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.

Year two

Built Asset Management

Year: 2

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.

Sustainable Procurement of Infrastructure

Year: 2

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: 2

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.

Contract Communication and Dispute Management

Year: 2

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.

Year three

Research Design and Dissertation

Year: 3

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.

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:

Applicants should normally possess:

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 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, alumni 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

While no formal work placement or study abroad opportunities are associated with this course, part-time mode enables you to remain in employment while undertaking your studies.

As well as helping with your work-life-study balance, studying in part-time mode will allow you to both directly apply your learning and provide proactive contribution to the classroom.

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).

The price of your overall programme will be determined by the number of credit points that you initiate in the relevant academic year.

For modules commenced in the academic year 2025/26, the following fees apply:

Fees Credit Points| NI/ROI/GB Cost| International Cost*
---|---|---
5 | £201.10| £494.70
10 | £402.20| £989.40
15 | £603.30| £1,484.10
20 | £804.40| £1,978.80
30 | £1,206.60| £2,968.20
60 | £2,413.20| £5,936.40
120 | £4,826.40| £11,872.80
180 | £7,239.60| £17,809.20
240| £9,652.80| £23,745.60

NB: A standard full-time PGCert is equivalent to 60 credit points per year. A standard full-time PGDip is equivalent to 120 credit points per year.

*International student access to courses is subject to meeting visa requirements. More information can be found in the Visas and Immigration section.

Where the postgraduate course selected offers multiple awards (e.g. PG Cert, PG Dip, Masters), please note that the price displayed is for the complete Masters programme.

Postgraduate certificates and diplomas are charged at a pro-rata basis.

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

Testimonials

"This course was invaluable in developing my business and project management knowledge and skills, and has contributed significantly to my career development."
Francis Marsh: Principal Project Manager, Health Estates

"Since starting this MSc I have been promoted four times from graduate to a senior position – this course has been invaluable in progressing my career."
Karen Crilly: Client Sponsor, Department of Justice

"Completing this course opened up a whole new sphere of employment to me. The course enabled me to apply for jobs at the commercial and contractual end of construction. Within 18 months of graduating, my salary was double what it was when I left employment to start the course."
Michael Yohanis - Project Manager

“This course was invaluable in developing my construction leadership and management knowledge and has contributed significantly to my career development. Following the course, I progressed to a Project Manager position working on projects in excess of £100M.”
Robert McAuley - Project Manager