Civil Engineering Project Management MSc

Study level: Postgraduate
Two engineers on a construction site

The MSc Civil Engineering Project Management aims to help you establish or advance your career in the global construction industry.

Year of entry

Location

Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Part-time
Sandwich

Duration

1 year full-time
2 years part-time
2 years sandwich

Course code

EECT108

Start date

May 2024


Course overview

Designed with input from industry, the course teaches an innovative mix of technical and construction project management, applicable to civil engineering contexts.

  • The course takes a multidisciplinary approach, aiming to equip you with clear educational and technical knowledge of how advanced engineering planning, analysis and design, contract law, finance, procurement, and project management interrelate in the modern construction industry.
  • You will have the opportunity to learn the laboratory testing procedures and techniques used to assess material and structural performance, using modern and upgraded loading equipment automated with data loggers, saturated and unsaturated stress path soil testing apparatus and commercial civil engineering material mixing and synthesising equipment.
  • The course culminates in a research project, during which you should be able to apply the theoretical and practical knowledge acquired so far from your academic training on real structural problems.
  • You will have the option to apply for a ‘work placement’ opportunity2, designed to further develop your skills and knowledge with the aim of maximising your employability prospects. See modules for more information.
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Why you should study this course

From concept to construction, we aim to cover the technical skills required to analyse, design, and develop sound solutions to civil engineering projects. Using case studies, practical sessions, simulation labs and site visits to live projects, you will apply engineering principles and use computer modelling techniques to analyse complex engineering systems, gaining valuable experience of the work you will carry out in an industrial context.

The course is intended for those seeking professional qualification as Chartered Engineers who are holders of an overseas or UK bachelor’s degree accredited as part of the educational base for a Chartered Engineer (e.g. BEng.) or an Incorporated Engineer e.g. BSc in civil engineering. A technical focused MSc research project is mandatory only for overseas and UK Incorporated Engineer (IEng) e.g. BSc graduates.

There is a broad engineering element to the course, such as developing and implementing advanced analytical methods to geotechnical, pavement, hydraulic and structural aspects of civil engineering projects. Similarly, the course aims to develop a range of project and construction management with BIM skills, preparing you for future employment in the global construction industry.

The course offers access to the university’s Simulation Centre4. Its bespoke programmes helps students, companies, and organisations across a range of sectors in training and development.

The use of the centre’s Learning Curve interactive screen and real-life scenarios using specially trained actors, not only improve skills but helps develop new ways of working by engaging our students in role play to develop their leadership and management skills. A control room in the simulation centre monitors the activity of students via cameras allowing staff to provide immediate feedback.

We currently have links with industry and the course is delivered by academic lecturers and guest speakers (subject to availability) in collaboration with civil engineering employers, such as Underground Professional Services and Morgan Sindall.

Accreditation and professional recognition

This course is accredited1 and recognised by:

CMI Chartered Management Institute

Chartered Management Institute

As part of this course you will undertake a professional development module which is currently accredited by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) for the 2023-24 intake. Upon successful completion of the module, you will gain the CMI Level 7 Certificate in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice at no additional cost. Further details can be found on the Professional Development module homepage.

Coventry University’s accreditation with CMI is currently ongoing for the relevant modules and is regularly reviewed and monitored by the CMI through their quality systems. Whilst Coventry University anticipates that these reviews will continue to be successful, if they were to be unsuccessful, the relevant module in this course would no longer be accredited and we would notify applicants and students of this change as soon as possible.



What you'll study

Modules

  • This module aims to introduce the fundamental theory and practical knowledge, at the appropriate depth, to develop the critical thinking and independent problem-solving skills necessary for learners in various aspects of design, analysis, and operation.

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to provide you with the technical knowledge and skills to develop the analytical, decision-making, and critical powers required to solve soil-structure interaction problems with Ground Engineering, along with the transferable skills to enable a leading career in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical Engineering).

    Compulsory

  • This module is designed to refresh and extend your previously acquired theoretical knowledge in hydrology, hydraulics, flood risk assessment and modelling; and develop the comprehensive knowledge and understanding of catchment hydrology, river hydraulics and flood modelling.

    Compulsory

  • This module will extend your previously acquired knowledge of structural mechanics and design principles for the plastic analysis of structures, including steel beams, steel frames and concrete slabs.

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to develop your understanding and critical awareness of the selection, use and interpretation of standard forms of contracts within the construction industry.

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to develop your ability to understand and apply accounting and financial principles, and to use financial information to analyse problems and assess business performance in construction firms from a financial viewpoint.

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to develop your understanding, critical awareness, and the ability to apply a range of different techniques to the management of construction projects within the global construction industry.

    Compulsory

  • The project calls for the application of academic knowledge (some gained during master’s level study, some from previous education), engineering judgment, professional skills, and personal resourcefulness to analyse challenging civil engineering / construction problems in a comprehensive manner and propose well justified and presented solutions.

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to provide you with a framework of knowledge and understanding of how to effectively lead and develop people in a strategically diverse and inclusive way.

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to develop your research and investigative skills by requiring you to carry out an independent investigation into a specific area of Civil Engineering/Construction Management/Built Environment under the supervision of a member of academic staff experienced in the field of enquiry. This includes the development of a thorough understanding of problem identification, research design and methodology, data collection, interpretation and analysis as well as effective report writing and robust dissertation defence in viva.

    Compulsory

With work placement pathway

The ‘With work placement’ opportunity2 enables you to apply in semester 1 for an optional work placement of up to 12 months, extending the duration of your master’s to 24 months. The placement provides an opportunity for you to develop expertise and experience in your chosen field with the aim of enhancing your employability upon graduation. The work placement would take place in semesters 3, 4 and 5.

Please note that the optional placement modules incur an additional tuition fee of £4,000. Placement opportunities may also be subject to additional costs, visa requirements being met, subject to availability and/or competitive application. Work placements are not guaranteed but you will benefit from the support of our Talent Team in trying to find and secure an opportunity. Find out more about the work placement option.

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.


How you'll learn

The MSc Civil Engineering Project Management may be studied full-time or part-time. Part time students study alongside full-time students. Each module consists of 12 weeks of tuition coupled with independent study and completion of assessments. Part-time participants study alternate modules over a period of two academic years. (Part-time participants who wish to extend their study over a longer period may do so subject to university regulations).

You will also have the opportunity to be given training in research methods to prepare you for the Integrated Project and individual Research Project.

The Integrated Project is normally team-based and investigates a real engineering problem. In the past, students have revaluated the £55-60 million projects at the Coventry A45/A46 By-pass and the i54 Wolverhampton Junction Technopark.

Collaborators such as Underground Professional Services, currently involved in HS2 rail projects, often suggest research topics for our MSc students. For example, one such project is on the method of monitoring strength gain in sprayed concrete at the tunnel’s crown, comparing thermal imaging (SMUTI) and penetrometer methods.

You may have the opportunity2 to attend Midlands Civil/Structural Engineers and Geotechnical Engineers workshops and visit constructions sites organised in conjunction with industry collaborators. You will also be invited to special visiting researcher seminars and talks. Workshops, seminars, talks and field trips may be subject to additional costs and are subject to availability.

This course can be offered on a part-time basis. Whilst we would like to give you all the information about our part-time offering here, it is tailored for each course each year depending on the number of part-time applicants. Request further information about part-time study.


Teaching contact hours

The number of contact hours may vary from semester to semester, however, on average, it is likely to be around 16 contact hours per week in the taught semesters. Additionally, you will be expected to undertake significant self-directed study of approximately 35 hours each week, depending on the demands of individual modules.

The contact hours may be made up of a combination of face-to-face teaching, individual and group tutorials, and online classes and tutorials.

As an innovative and enterprising institution, the university may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended, or distance learning), the university may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods.

Since COVID-19, we have delivered our courses in a variety of forms, in line with public authority guidance, decisions, or orders and we will continue to adapt our delivery as appropriate. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.


Assessment

Assessment may include examinations, written tests, computer modelling work, your thesis and coursework, consisting of analysis and evaluation of several laboratory exercises, case study assignments and projects.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes. Assessments may include exams, individual assignments or group work elements.


International experience opportunities

Civil engineering is a global industry, and this course typically attracts students from around the world, including Europe, China, Africa, India, Brunei, Malaysia, and the Middle East, providing a multicultural learning experience.

As part of the Global Professional Development module, you will have the opportunity to develop knowledge and understanding of international, cultural, and ethical issues, coupled with the principles of consultancy and the theories and practices found in leadership. We will also draw on best practice transport projects from around the world.

Please note that all international experience opportunities may be subject to additional costs, competitive application, availability and meeting applicable visa and travel requirements are therefore not guaranteed2.


Entry requirements

Typical offer for 2023/24 entry.

Normal entry requires a minimum 2:2 UK or overseas undergraduate honours degree in Civil Engineering.

Holders of CEng accredited bachelor’s degree can enrol on the course provided they meet the entry requirements. This will automatically meet the educational base for Chartered Engineer status.

Holders of an IEng accredited or an overseas bachelor’s degree will need to apply for an academic assessment to be formally approved for CEng. They may be required to complete extra modules if their bachelor’s degree is deemed to be not technical enough.

Applicants with professional/industrial experience and/or training, but not meeting the normal entry requirements will be considered on their merits, with the understanding that on completion of the award they may not be eligible for Chartered status as they will not be fulfilling the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) requirements. Applicants are therefore strongly advised to check with the JBM and Engineering Council before committing to the course.

We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

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Select your region to find detailed information about entry requirements:

You can view our full list of country specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events and how to apply.

Typical entry requirements

Normal entry requires a minimum 2:2 UK or overseas undergraduate honours degree in Civil Engineering.

Holders of CEng accredited bachelor’s degree can enrol on the course provided they meet the entry requirements. This will automatically meet the educational base for Chartered Engineer status.

Holders of an IEng accredited or an overseas bachelor’s degree will need to apply for an academic assessment to be formally approved for CEng. They may be required to complete extra modules if their bachelor’s degree is deemed to be not technical enough.

Applicants with professional/industrial experience and/or training, but not meeting the normal entry requirements will be considered on their merits, with the understanding that on completion of the award they may not be eligible for Chartered status as they will not be fulfilling the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) requirements. Applicants are therefore strongly advised to check with the JBM and Engineering Council before committing to the course.

Each application will be considered on its merits and the final decision will be made by the course director. For information regarding what might amount to a ‘professional/industrial experience and/or training’ please fill in our request information form.

English language requirements

  • IELTS: 6.5 overall, with no component lower than 5.5.

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course. 

For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

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Fees and funding

2023/24 tuition fees.

Student Full-time Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man £11,200 | £4,000 (Work placement option additional fee)   Request fee information
EU £11,200 | £4,000 (Work placement option additional fee) per year with EU support bursary**
£18,600 | £4,000 (Work placement option additional fee) per year without EU support bursary**
Not available
International £18,600 | £4,000 (Work placement option additional fee)   Not available

For advice and guidance on tuition fees3 and student loans visit our Postgraduate Finance page and see the university's Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

  • Any optional overseas field trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
  • Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**EU support bursary

Following the UK's exit from the European Union, we are offering financial support to all eligible EU students who wish to study an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree with us full-time. This bursary will be used to offset the cost of your tuition fees to bring them in line with that of UK students. Students studying a degree with a foundation year with us are not eligible for the bursary.

  • We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the government's Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

    If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.


Facilities

Our aim is to offer you sector-leading facilities4.

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The Library

You will benefit from our support designed to help you succeed and our industry-relevant teaching and resources. These include our modern library and computing facilities, dedicated careers advice and Your Students’ Union.

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Jaguar Centre

The Jaguar Centre has been specifically designed to provide facilities and services to support our postgraduate students including social spaces, computer suites and separate areas for small group study.

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The Hub

The Hub is the centre of student campus life. It's also home to the Health and Wellbeing Centre, the Spirituality and Faith Centre, the Tank Studio, Student Success Coaches and the Enterprise Hub.


Careers and opportunities

On successful completion of the course you will be able to:

  • Apply knowledge and wide-ranging understanding of health, safety and environment principles, and legal framework within which the construction industry operates, and undertake full ethical and professional responsibilities in the discharge of their duties.
  • Demonstrate an applied in-depth knowledge and detailed understanding of cost, structural and hydrological analysis, highway, pavement and hydraulic design, innovative construction, and maintenance techniques to civil engineering infrastructure.
  • Apply innovative and advanced computational methods and simulation tools to model and analyse complex environmental systems.
  • Apply wide-ranging understanding of experimental, analytical and numerical techniques for investigative studies in hydrological, structural, environmental & geotechnical engineering.
  • Apply critical understanding in proposal development and writing; use innovative knowledge in sourcing, analysing, and presenting data; and apply research methodologies to undertake independent investigation and academic writing of a specialised topic.
  • Demonstrate personal abilities in teamwork, leadership, and communication.
  • Critically evaluate and apply corporate strategy and systems theory to the management of projects in engineering and construction industry.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the principles of consultancy and the theories and practices found in leadership.

You may want to apply for this course if you are considering specialising in structural engineering or require further qualification to advance your career within the public and private sector as a civil or structural engineer. If you are already working within the profession, the course provides an opportunity to enhance previously acquired knowledge regarding the latest issues and technological advances.

For example, all design-related modules are taught in accordance with the new structural Eurocodes. In addition, we employ civil and structural engineering software, such as ANSYS and MIDAS for teaching and learning; you should also be able to download these computer applications to undertake your coursework.

Where our graduates work

Some of our postgraduate civil engineering graduates have gone on to work for Jacobs, Atkins, and AECOM as structural/civil engineers. You could also move into construction, design, project management or go on to pursue an academic or research-oriented career.


How to apply

  • Coventry University together with Coventry University London Campus, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the “University”) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University. 

    1Accreditations

    The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

    2UK and international opportunities

    Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or International opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel COVID and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

    3Tuition fees

    The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

    For International Students, we may increase fees each year but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

    4Facilities

    Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.

    Student Contract

    By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the 2023/24 contract can be found here. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.