Course summary
The buildings we inhabit say a lot about our society. With climate emergency being the pressing issue of our time, sustainable architecture is more important than ever to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions. Here at Oxford Brookes, you will take a broad view of what it takes to design and operate low-carbon energy efficient buildings. You’ll explore everything from heating and ventilation systems to the behaviour of users. You’ll keep up to date with developments in policy and construction techniques. And you’ll examine the industry’s biggest challenges so you can work to solve them and contribute to a sustainable future. We use our industry links and research connections to give you the latest insights and the greatest opportunities – whether you want to learn more about new technologies or network with the biggest players in the consultancy business. You’ll find plenty of ways to personalise the course to your own interests and career goals too. With accreditation by the Energy Institute, you can access a huge range of resources and training to boost your career.
Modules
Building Physics (20 credits) Building Physics module provides fundamental understanding of the applied principles of physics to the built environment. Understanding Building physics is crucial to more efficient and sustainable building design, providing the knowledge of how buildings work. This module, in particular, studies heat, air and moisture transfer in buildings allowing designers to explore energy efficient solutions/buildings whilst also providing thermal comfort for its occupant. This module explores energy balance through understanding gains and losses allowing better fabric energy efficiency and consequently more efficient buildings. The different climatic conditions and their effect on the overall energy demand of buildings are also investigated. Urban sustainability and microclimates (20 credits) The impact of urbanisation and its effect on microclimate is undeniably increasing the burden on resources and energy demand, contributing to the rate of climate change. This module sets to explore the issues arising from urban development and its implication on district energy generation and distribution, infrastructures, urban microclimates and the additional emphasis on the buildings’ energy demand. The module introduces the philosophy and theories of sustainable development considering energy supply and demand, water, natural resources, sustainable transport and the local economy. Building Performance Evaluation (20 credits) This unique module focuses on the complex task of assessing the actual performance of buildings in respect of energy use, environmental impact and occupant satisfaction. This module provides the opportunity for students to monitor and assess real buildings’ performance after building completion, understanding the performance gap and propose possible improvements. Services and Systems for Net Zero Energy Buildings (20 credits) The module introduces the principles of building design and construction that minimise the carbon impact of buildings. This includes advanced construction detailing, highly-efficient heating, cooling, ventilation systems and energy-efficient appliances in addition to the production of renewable energy through different available technologies. A unique comprehensive construction detailing workshop is offered in this module. Building Simulation and Design in Context (40 credits) This module allows students to apply the knowledge gained from other modules within the course, to one practical module. The module provides a theoretical introduction to a systematic building energy performance simulation and analysis in relation to different climatic conditions. The underlying theory and principles of software related to the predictive modelling of buildings is described and the merits of state of the art software modelling packages debated. Students are therefore able to examine their ideas in relation to particular types of climate and explore the effectiveness of applied strategies as climate modifiers, using predictive modelling techniques. The students are also encouraged to look beyond the oil age and traditional construction methods and materials and look into future proofing their proposal. This can be undertaken either by a more design based or alternative research approach. Research Methods and Design (10 credits) This module aims to advance the students’ knowledge and understanding of research methods available. It presents a variety of qualitative and quantitative methodologies providing an opportunity to gain practical research skills. Dissertation The synoptic research or a ‘research-led’ design dissertation gives the opportunity for application and expansion of the material presented in the programme through independent research projects. (50 credits)
Assessment method
The course benefits from a variety of formative and summative assessments including presentations, class tests and reports.
How to apply
International applicants
If your first language is not English you will require a minimum academic IELTS score of 6.5 overall with 6.0 in all components. OR An equivalent English language qualification acceptable to the University. Please also see the University's standard English language requirements.
Entry requirements
Candidates are required to fulfil one of the following: hold an approved undergraduate honours degree minimum 2.2, or equivalent overseas qualification, in a relevant discipline ie architecture, engineering or physics and other subjects related to the built and natural environments. possess an appropriate professional background and experience in architecture, building or building servicing design. Applications are also considered from potential candidates who wish to seek accreditation for their prior experiential learning or earlier qualifications, particularly those who have worked on projects in related fields. A number of our applicants use the programme as a means of facilitating a career change or progression.
English language requirements
IELTS score of 6.5 overall with 6.0 in all components
If English is not your first language then, please see here for our requirements and accepted alternative English language qualifications
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £10700 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £10700 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £10700 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £10700 | Year 1 |
| EU | £17150 | Year 1 |
| International | £17150 | Year 1 |
Additional fee information
Fees quoted are for the first year only. If you are studying a course that lasts longer than one year, your fees will increase each year.
Provider information
Oxford Brookes University
Gipsy Lane
Headington
Oxford
OX3 0BP