Course summary

This programme has an interdisciplinary approach that gives students a broad insight into energy and sustainability issues and in-depth study of the building physics and modelling software used in the design of modern buildings and their surroundings. Computer modelling techniques enable the complex interactions between buildings and the environment in and around them to be simulated, at both the level of individual buildings and at urban scale with many buildings. This is a modular programme having both taught and practical components, in which students develop skills in using such techniques. The focus on building performance is complemented by a consideration of renewable energy and wider sustainable development policy issues, such as the use of sustainability indicators, and conceptions of economic, ecological and social sustainability. National and international assessment methods and tools, widely used in building design and appraisal, are included. The need for sustainable approaches to building design is universally acknowledged. As the effects of climate change become greater, the drive towards more energy efficient and better adapted buildings will intensify. Sustainable buildings need not be technologically complex, but a high level of sophistication in design procedures and performance analysis is required. The skills developed on the course are in high demand in architectural and engineering consultancies, utilities and research and development. Key features

• Your degree can fit around your work and other commitments thanks to flexible study options. The course is designed to be tailored around you with part-time, full-time or distance learning options, and multiple exit awards from a full master’s degree to a single module.

• Accredited by the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) and the Energy Institute (EI), you will benefit from the highest-quality teaching and be able to graduate with an industry-recognised qualification.

• Through interdisciplinary teaching which allows you to look at various subject matters, you can develop a broader insight into energy and sustainability issues, as well as in-depth knowledge of computer- modelling techniques for the design of modern sustainable buildings.

• You can benefit from excellent career prospects, with many of our graduates from this programme progressing to work for organisations such as the European Commission, Mott MacDonald, WSP Global, WYG, and Arup Group. Other graduates have gone on to work at energy and environmental consultancies, central and local government, and multinational organisations.

• Our modules are taught by expert research and teaching staff at the Institute of Energy and Sustainable Development, which has more than 30 years’ experience to draw on. This means you’ll be able to learn first-hand from researchers who are actively involved in furthering knowledge in this area and will be able to offer you real-world experience and insight.