The University of Bath

MSc International Construction Management

The MSc International Construction Management (ICM) is a flexible programme designed for construction professionals wanting flexible, part-time study to fit around their careers. Students are taught online through our Virtual Learning Environment (Moodle) by our experienced tutors.

A key element of the programme is learning through reflection on your practice. Emphasis is placed on applying what you learn to the industry and on comparing and contrasting issues with your peers from around the world. This approach is reinforced by the opportunity to attend residentials at the University of Bath, the British Columbia Institute of Technology, Vancouver or in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Programme structure

The MSc programme takes three years to complete and comprises:

- six core units
- two option units
- an integrative unit
- attendance at two separate residential schools
- and a dissertation.

The Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) covers the same taught elements as the MSc programme, but does not require a dissertation to be submitted and takes two years to complete. Many of our units can also be taken as Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

Study is predominantly online, but students are required to attend two residential schools (seven days each) at the University of Bath during their registration and may also have to attend exams at the University.

What is Moodle?

Moodle is the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE): our online learning space where students can access programme content (such as work books or links to web resources) and activities (such as self-assessment questions or discussions) at any time and place. Moodle allows students to communicate with one other, offering collaborative learning opportunities and the chance to share professional experiences. As a secure platform it is also used for the submission of assignments and feedback, as well as communication with tutors and Programme Officers.

Units available for study:

- Compulsory units
- Management in Construction
- Economics in Construction
- Construction Law
- Managing Human Resources
- Procuring Construction
- Strategy in Construction
- Consolidating Theory and Practice.
- Option units
- Construction Project Management
- Communication and Information Management

Facility Management

Social Responsibility: Business and Society
Sustainable Business Practices.

Assessment

Assessment is by means of assignments, examinations and, for the MSc, a dissertation. Examinations are held at the University of Bath although, for students based overseas, a local venue can be arranged. Please note all UK and Republic of Ireland candidates must take their exams at the University of Bath. Exam sessions are in October and April each year.

Accelerated study route

You may apply for the accelerated study route to enable you to complete the MSc programme in 15 months. This is an ideal study mode for those wanting to take a sabbatical from work or who currently find themselves without employment. You will still have to attend two 7 day residential schools at one of our study centres during the programme.

- Studying this programme offers a number of excellent benefits:

- Enhanced career opportunities through an internationally recognised postgraduate qualification

- Practical knowledge that is immediately applicable in your workplace

- Increased expertise in the strategic management of construction in both a domestic and international arena

- Flexibility allowing you to join at any time, control your pace of study and spread costs through instalments

- Membership of an international group of career professionals

- Access to the University's online library facilities, email and internet

- Access to the programme Virtual Learning Environment (Moodle).

It also offers many benefits for employers:

- Cost-effective training of managers leading to increased competitiveness and operational efficiency

- Students are engaged in active learning which is relevant and immediately used in their work

- Project work can be of direct relevance to your employer

- Minimal time off work for attendance at residentials and examinations

- Costs can be spread over two or more financial years.

Accreditation and professional membership

The programme is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

Graduates are eligible to apply to become corporate members of the Hong Kong Institute of Construction Managers (HKICM) and the Australian Institute of Building (AIB). In addition, graduates with suitable experience may be exempt from all examinations for the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) corporate membership.

Engineering Council accredited degreeThis degree 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.