MSc Advanced Concrete Technology

This taught postgraduate programme in Advanced Concrete Technology is designed to provide professionals already working in the concrete industry as well as those seeking to enter the field with a thorough understanding of Advanced Concrete Technology and its application in construction.

Key Information

• Level: Postgraduate
• Delivery type: Self-paced
• Degree qualification: MSc
• Location: Online
• Duration: Varied
• Start date: September, January

Programme Overview

Participants will gain insights into the fundamental principles required to design and construct high-quality, durable, and sustainable concrete structures. It also covers the management of concrete performance in service and introduces the concept of life cycle analysis as a means of reducing carbon footprint and improving whole-life cost efficiency.

The programme is tailored for construction professionals currently involved in the production, application, and quality control of concrete, as well as those engaged in educational activities related to concrete construction. It is also well suited to recent graduates looking to specialise in concrete technology and construction.

Degree Duration

The fastest this postgraduate programme can be completed is in 2 years. The maximum completion timeframe is 8 years. On average, most students complete an MSc in 3 years.

Delivery on Online Degrees

Our up-to-date and progressive course materials are made available online through the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). The VLE links you with our expert academics and course materials through videos, webinars, articles, journals, assessments, and discussion boards.

Industry Links

The courses within this programme are structured around comprehensive learning objectives developed by the Technical and Education Committee of the Institute of Concrete Technology (ICT). These objectives are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect current industry developments and demands.

Course Content

This taught postgraduate programme in Advanced Concrete Technology comprises 180 credits in total, divided into 2 groups of 3 taught courses (120 credits in total) and an independent research dissertation (60 credits).

Group 1 Courses

1. Constituent Materials of Concrete
2. Early-age Properties of Concrete
3. Long-term Performance of Concrete

Group 2 Courses

1. Testing and Quality Assurance of Concrete
2. Service life, Repair and Maintenance of Concrete Structures
3. Concrete Production, Processes, Applications and Construction Practice

Students are required to follow the recommended sequence of study, i.e., starting with the Constituent Materials of Concrete course and completing all Group 1 courses before progressing to Group 2. A maximum of 2 courses may be taken per semester, and assessments must be completed within the same semester in which the course is registered.

Fees and Funding

• Per course: ｣1,955
• Dissertation: ｣2,030

The tuition fees listed are for courses starting between September 2025 and August 2026. Fees normally increase annually.

Tuition fee loans are available to Scottish distance learning students on some taught postgraduate courses.

Funding Opportunities

We offer a wide variety of scholarships and bursaries to encourage well-qualified, ambitious students to study with us.

Entry Requirements

Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

• A minimum of a 2:2 honours degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant engineering discipline, with adequate knowledge of materials chemistry
• An approved certification in Advanced Concrete Technology, such as the ICT Certificate in Concrete Technology and Construction

Applicants with substantial relevant professional experience may also be considered.

Each application will be assessed by a HWU academic course tutor and a representative of the ICT Technical and Education Committee.

January or September Entry

Students can choose to start their studies in January or September.

Recognition of Prior Learning

We are committed to providing study opportunities to applicants who have a wide range of prior experiences through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

English Language Requirements

The minimum English language requirement for entry to this programme is IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with no score lower than 5.5.

Heriot-Watt University

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Overview:

Heriot-Watt University is a research-focused institution with campuses in Edinburgh, the Scottish Borders, Orkney, Dubai, and Malaysia, as well as an online presence. It is known for its career-focused degrees and strong links with industry. Heriot-Watt is highly regarded for its research, with a significant portion ranked world-leading and internationally excellent.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Heriot-Watt offers a diverse and international student community, with one-third of its Edinburgh Campus students coming from outside the UK. The university provides a range of facilities across its campuses, including healthcare, libraries, food and drink, sports centers, and more. Students can participate in clubs and activities, and the university offers accommodation options near its campuses.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Career-focused degrees:

Heriot-Watt is ranked first in Scotland for graduate employability and its graduates are first in the UK for CEO or MD roles.

Global reach:

The university has campuses across the UK, Dubai, and Malaysia, providing students with a truly international experience.

Strong research:

Heriot-Watt is valued for its pioneering research, which is informed by the global needs of business and industry.

Diverse student community:

The university boasts a diverse international student community, fostering a multicultural learning environment.

Beautiful campuses:

Heriot-Watt's campuses are located in stunning settings, offering students a unique and inspiring learning environment.

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Academic Programs:

Heriot-Watt offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Engineering
• Life Sciences
• Mathematics
• Computer Sciences
• Physical Sciences
• Social Sciences and Business
• Art and Design
• Languages and Culture

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Other:

Heriot-Watt is committed to sustainability and is actively working towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The university also offers a personalized virtual experience through its online tour platform, allowing prospective students to explore its campuses virtually.