MSc Building Services Engineering

The MSc Building Services Engineering program at Heriot-Watt University is designed to equip students with the technical, analytical, and leadership skills necessary to excel in modern construction and low-carbon design. This postgraduate program is delivered online, allowing students to study flexibly from anywhere in the world.

Key Information

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

Programme Overview

Ranked 1st in Scotland and 3rd in the UK for Building (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide, 2025), Heriot-Watt University is a global leader in sustainable design and construction education. This MSc focuses on low-carbon building design and the integration of renewable energy systems, addressing key sustainability and performance challenges facing today's construction industry.

Programme Details

The program is designed for engineers, architects, project managers, and professionals from technical or scientific backgrounds. It equips students with the knowledge to deliver efficient, environmentally responsible building solutions across sectors and geographies. By studying this MSc, students will:

• Master the principles of building services and architectural engineering.
• Design and assess low-carbon and renewable energy systems.
• Develop advanced data analysis and modelling skills using industry-standard software.
• Apply sustainable development and carbon management practices to real projects.
• Strengthen leadership and management capability for senior technical roles.

Course Content

The MSc comprises eight taught courses and a research dissertation (180 credits in total). Students take one core course, as well as a dissertation, and choose seven optional courses, allowing them to specialise in technical, environmental, or managerial pathways.

• Core courses:
  • Design of Low Carbon Buildings
• Optional courses:
  • Climate Change, Sustainability and Adaptation
  • Energy Systems and Buildings
  • Building Electrical and Lighting Services
  • Ventilation and Air Conditioning
  • Thermofluids
  • Modelling for Sustainable Building Design
  • Water Supply and Drainage for Buildings
  • Strategic Commercial and Contract Management
• Dissertation:
  • Dissertation (Architectural Engineering Discipline)

Study at Your Own Pace

The flexible online model allows students to study wherever they are in the world, while continuing to work and apply new knowledge in their role. Students can complete their MSc in as little as 2 and a half years or spread their studies over a longer period to suit their commitments.

Fees and Funding

Tuition is available on a pay-per-course basis.

• Per course: £1,570
• Dissertation: £2,030
• Full programme: £14,590 Fees apply to courses starting between September 2025 and August 2026. Fees include one assessment attempt and may increase annually.

Funding Opportunities

• Pay Per Course: All programs offer the flexibility to pay course-by-course, allowing students to spread the cost of their tuition over the lifetime of their studies.
• 20% Alumni Discount: If students are Heriot-Watt alumni, they qualify for 20% off their program fees.
• Employer Sponsorship: All programs offer the flexibility to pay course-by-course, allowing students to spread the cost of their tuition over the lifetime of their studies.

Entry Requirements

Students must meet the standard entry requirements for all courses.

• Standard entry requirements:
  • Minimum 2:2 honours degree (or equivalent) in a cognate subject, or
  • Corporate or Chartered membership of a relevant professional institution.
• Alternative entry (PG Diploma level):
  • Third-class degree in a relevant subject plus 2+ years' professional experience, or
  • Cognate ordinary degree plus 3–4 years' relevant experience.
• English language requirements: The minimum English language requirement for entry to this program is IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with no score lower than 5.5.

Employability

With the flexible model, students can earn while they learn, build their CV, and apply new skills right away. Heriot-Watt University is the top university in Scotland for graduate outcomes, and 5th in the UK, meaning more of their graduates are employed or in postgraduate education than any other institution in the country.

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.