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MSc (T) Construction and Project Management

Academic Year 2017/18

A programme specification is required for any programme on which a student may be registered. All programmes of the University are subject to the University's Quality Assurance and Enhancement processes as set out in the DASA Policies and Procedures Manual.

Programme Title

MSc (T) Construction and Project Management

Final Award
(exit route if applicable for Postgraduate Taught Programmes)

Master of Science

Programme Code

ARC-MSC-CP

UCAS Code

JACS Code

K220 (DESCR) 100

Criteria for Admissions

A minimum of a 2.2 Honours degree, or above (in line with current School regulations), in a relevant Science, Engineering, Management, or Social Science discipline (such as Geography, Business, Pharmaceutical, Mechanical, Aerospace), or a recognised equivalent qualification.

Sufficient, relevant and recognised prior learning (RPL) is also taken into account in line with recommendations from Academic Affairs and Admissions. Experience and professional status will also be taken into account.

Applicants who are non‐EEA nationals must satisfy the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requirements for English language for visa purposes, by providing evidence of an IELTS* score of 6.5, with not less than 5.5 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University.
*Taken within the last 2 years.

ATAS Clearance Required

No

Health Check Required

No

Portfolio Required

Interview Required

Mode of Study

Full Time

Type of Programme

Postgraduate

Length of Programme

1 Academic Year(s)

Total Credits for Programme

180

Exit Awards available

INSTITUTE INFORMATION

Awarding Institution/Body

Queen's University Belfast

Teaching Institution

Queen's University Belfast

School/Department

Natural and Built Environment

Framework for Higher Education Qualification Level 
www.qaa.ac.uk

Level 7

QAA Benchmark Group
www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/subject-benchmark-statements

Architectural Technology (2014)

Accreditations (PSRB)

Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors

Date of most recent Accreditation Visit 19-05-14

Joint Board of Moderators,Institutions of Civil Engineering (UK) and Structured Engineering (UK)

Date of most recent Accreditation Visit 03-04-14

CIOB

Date of most recent Accreditation Visit 01-06-12

REGULATION INFORMATION

Does the Programme have any approved exemptions from the University General Regulations
(Please see General Regulations)

N/A

Programme Specific Regulations

Students are not permitted to transfer onto this programme from another programme after the second week of semester one.
Students can only proceed, at risk, to dissertation, with a maximum of 20 CATS points outstanding. Students cannot submit their thesis with any taught element (coursework and/or examination) still outstanding.
Students who have taken an optional module from the programme during their under graduate pathway, cannot repeat the module or carry the credit forward.

Students with protected characteristics

N/A

Are students subject to Fitness to Practise Regulations

(Please see General Regulations)

No

EDUCATIONAL AIMS OF PROGRAMME

On completion of the programme the student will be able to:

Develop practical and professional skills in the critical acquisition, analysis, interpretation and understanding of Construction Project Management.

Develop a holistic approach by integrating the technical knowledge of design, engineering and construction with financial, legal, IT, commercial leadership and managerial skills of business administration in the management of simple to complex projects from project conception to construction engineering and maintenance; and construction organisations; e.g. construction economics and finance, strategic management, information systems, construction law, international construction markets and competitive advantage.

Develop critical and analytical problem solving skills across a broad range of subjects and transferable skills that relate to literacy, numeracy, computing, teamwork, group work, and personal presentations and interactions to prepare graduates for more general employment.

Develop the ability to apply appropriate theoretical and practical management methods in the analysis and solution of design, engineering and construction problems.

The major difference between the MSc and the Diploma is the independent Research Project and associated dissertation undertaken by MSc candidates after completing the taught programme. The Research Project provides an opportunity for students to independently produce a structured research document with clear aims and objectives, stating hypotheses to be tested within a relevant CPM area. The research will include a review of research methodologies, a comprehensive literature review and the development of research questions to test their hypotheses in a social sciences research context. The dissertation will clearly communicate their analysis of the data obtained, how it may or may not align with literature or agree with their hypotheses. It will also discuss implications for practice within the construction industry.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Learning Outcomes: Cognitive Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

The capability to plan, conduct, present and report a major independent research project in construction project management.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students’ intellectual skills are developed through lectures, tutorials, directed reading, problem-solving scenarios and student presentations.
Further opportunity for the development of intellectual skills specifically for the programme is offered by the individual and independent research project work. The range of topics covered in the program will develop the student’s ‘problem solving skills’ to a high level and help them to think in new and imaginative ways to solve difficult real life problems on construction site and organisations.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is made using unseen written examinations (where required), coursework (individual and group submissions), and in oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.
In the case of the MSc independent Research Project, assessment will be on an 18,000-20,000 word dissertation plus a 5,000 word, publication standard, summary paper.

Understand and apply mitigating measures to counteract the risks/impacts of construction projects in the context of construction project management.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students’ intellectual skills are developed through lectures, tutorials, directed reading, problem-solving scenarios and student presentations.
Further opportunity for the development of intellectual skills specifically for the programme is offered by the individual and independent research project work. The range of topics covered in the program will develop the student’s ‘problem solving skills’ to a high level and help them to think in new and imaginative ways to solve difficult real life problems on construction site and organisations.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is made using unseen written examinations (where required), coursework (individual and group submissions), and in oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.
In the case of the MSc independent Research Project, assessment will be on an 18,000-20,000 word dissertation plus a 5,000 word, publication standard, summary paper.

Critically analyse, evaluate and interpret qualitative and quantitative data.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students’ intellectual skills are developed through lectures, tutorials, directed reading, problem-solving scenarios and student presentations.
Further opportunity for the development of intellectual skills specifically for the programme is offered by the individual and independent research project work. The range of topics covered in the program will develop the student’s ‘problem solving skills’ to a high level and help them to think in new and imaginative ways to solve difficult real life problems on construction site and organisations.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is made using unseen written examinations (where required), coursework (individual and group submissions), and in oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.
In the case of the MSc independent Research Project, assessment will be on an 18,000-20,000 word dissertation plus a 5,000 word, publication standard, summary paper.

Formulate and test concepts and hypotheses; both theoretically and in practice

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students’ intellectual skills are developed through lectures, tutorials, directed reading, problem-solving scenarios and student presentations.
Further opportunity for the development of intellectual skills specifically for the programme is offered by the individual and independent research project work. The range of topics covered in the program will develop the student’s ‘problem solving skills’ to a high level and help them to think in new and imaginative ways to solve difficult real life problems on construction site and organisations.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is made using unseen written examinations (where required), coursework (individual and group submissions), and in oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.
In the case of the MSc independent Research Project, assessment will be on an 18,000-20,000 word dissertation plus a 5,000 word, publication standard, summary paper.

Make informed judgments on complex issues, e.g. interpret a diversity of multi-factors affecting the quality, time and cost of construction projects and management of construction organisations.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students’ intellectual skills are developed through lectures, tutorials, directed reading, problem-solving scenarios and student presentations.
Further opportunity for the development of intellectual skills specifically for the programme is offered by the individual and independent research project work. The range of topics covered in the program will develop the student’s ‘problem solving skills’ to a high level and help them to think in new and imaginative ways to solve difficult real life problems on construction site and organisations.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is made using unseen written examinations (where required), coursework (individual and group submissions), and in oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.
In the case of the MSc independent Research Project, assessment will be on an 18,000-20,000 word dissertation plus a 5,000 word, publication standard, summary paper.

Learning Outcomes: Transferable Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Make effective use of both oral and written skills and be able to communicate effectively, both digitally and interpersonally, to both specialist and non-specialist audiences within the context of construction project management.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students’ transferable skills are developed through presentations exercises, student and tutor-led discussions, preparation for oral and written presentations, group-working exercises and the extended individual project.

Practical skills in the use of Information Technology are as practically assessed in the development of 3D intelligent models and supporting analysis. The development of IT skills are integral of the learning and teaching process underpinning the degree and are assessed directly, in conjunction with the students ability to apply these principles in the context of project management.

Methods of Assessment

The assessment of the majority of the transferable skills forms an integral part of the overall assessment of the degree pathway. Group-working and written and oral communication skills are assessed directly. Practical skills in the use of Information Technology are not formally assessed, although the development of IT skills are integral of the learning and teaching process underpinning the degree and are assessed indirectly.

Demonstrate competency in using Information Technology and computer skills e.g. Microsoft Project and Primavera software; BIM related software; SSPS and other research methods software.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students’ transferable skills are developed through presentations exercises, student and tutor-led discussions, preparation for oral and written presentations, group-working exercises and the extended individual project.

Practical skills in the use of Information Technology are as practically assessed in the development of 3D intelligent models and supporting analysis. The development of IT skills are integral of the learning and teaching process underpinning the degree and are assessed directly, in conjunction with the students ability to apply these principles in the context of project management.

Methods of Assessment

The assessment of the majority of the transferable skills forms an integral part of the overall assessment of the degree pathway. Group-working and written and oral communication skills are assessed directly. Practical skills in the use of Information Technology are not formally assessed, although the development of IT skills are integral of the learning and teaching process underpinning the degree and are assessed indirectly.

Demonstrate an ability to learn and then apply that learning in the context of construction project management.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students’ transferable skills are developed through presentations exercises, student and tutor-led discussions, preparation for oral and written presentations, group-working exercises and the extended individual project.

Practical skills in the use of Information Technology are as practically assessed in the development of 3D intelligent models and supporting analysis. The development of IT skills are integral of the learning and teaching process underpinning the degree and are assessed directly, in conjunction with the students ability to apply these principles in the context of project management.

Methods of Assessment

The assessment of the majority of the transferable skills forms an integral part of the overall assessment of the degree pathway. Group-working and written and oral communication skills are assessed directly. Practical skills in the use of Information Technology are not formally assessed, although the development of IT skills are integral of the learning and teaching process underpinning the degree and are assessed indirectly.

Demonstrate ability to apply transferable skills in the context of construction project management.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students’ transferable skills are developed through presentations exercises, student and tutor-led discussions, preparation for oral and written presentations, group-working exercises and the extended individual project.

Practical skills in the use of Information Technology are as practically assessed in the development of 3D intelligent models and supporting analysis. The development of IT skills are integral of the learning and teaching process underpinning the degree and are assessed directly, in conjunction with the students ability to apply these principles in the context of project management.

Methods of Assessment

The assessment of the majority of the transferable skills forms an integral part of the overall assessment of the degree pathway. Group-working and written and oral communication skills are assessed directly. Practical skills in the use of Information Technology are not formally assessed, although the development of IT skills are integral of the learning and teaching process underpinning the degree and are assessed indirectly.

Work in a team and understand professional responsibilities in the context of construction project management.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students’ transferable skills are developed through presentations exercises, student and tutor-led discussions, preparation for oral and written presentations, group-working exercises and the extended individual project.

Practical skills in the use of Information Technology are as practically assessed in the development of 3D intelligent models and supporting analysis. The development of IT skills are integral of the learning and teaching process underpinning the degree and are assessed directly, in conjunction with the students ability to apply these principles in the context of project management.

Methods of Assessment

The assessment of the majority of the transferable skills forms an integral part of the overall assessment of the degree pathway. Group-working and written and oral communication skills are assessed directly. Practical skills in the use of Information Technology are not formally assessed, although the development of IT skills are integral of the learning and teaching process underpinning the degree and are assessed indirectly.

Demonstrate independent judgment, autonomy, and personal responsibility in addressing potentially complex situations in professional or equivalent environments (i.e. through their independent Dissertation/Thesis Project).

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

In the case of the MSc independent Research Project students will, with appropriate Supervision, independently produce a structured research document with clear aims and objectives, stating hypotheses to be tested within a relevant CPM area. The research will include a review of research methodologies, a comprehensive literature review and the development of research questions to test their hypotheses in a social sciences research context. The dissertation will clearly communicate their analysis of the data obtained, how it may or may not align with literature or agree with their hypotheses. It will also discuss implications for practice within the construction industry.

Methods of Assessment

The assessment of the majority of the transferable skills forms an integral part of the overall assessment of the degree pathway. Group-working and written and oral communication skills are assessed directly. Practical skills in the use of Information Technology are not formally assessed, although the development of IT skills are integral of the learning and teaching process underpinning the degree and are assessed indirectly.
In the case of the MSc independent Research Project, assessment will be on an 18,000-20,000 word dissertation plus a 5,000 word, publication standard, summary paper.

Learning Outcomes: Knowledge & Understanding

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Develop practical and professional skills in the critical acquisition, analysis, interpretation and understanding of Construction Project Management.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students’ acquisition of core knowledge and understanding is achieved primarily through independent study supported by lectures, tutorials and group work.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is made using unseen written examinations (where required), coursework, and in oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.

Develop a holistic approach by integrating the technical knowledge of design, engineering and construction with financial, legal, IT, commercial leadership and managerial skills of business administration in the management of simple to complex projects from project conception to construction engineering and maintenance; and construction organisations; e.g. construction economics and finance, strategic management, information systems, construction law, international construction markets and competitive advantage.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students’ acquisition of core knowledge and understanding is achieved primarily through independent study supported by lectures, tutorials and group work.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is made using unseen written examinations (where required), coursework, and in oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.

Develop critical and analytical problem solving skills across a broad range of subjects and transferable skills that relate to literacy, numeracy, computing, teamwork, group work, and personal presentations and interactions to prepare graduates for more general employment.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students’ acquisition of core knowledge and understanding is achieved primarily through independent study supported by lectures, tutorials and group work.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is made using unseen written examinations (where required), coursework, and in oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.

Develop the professional ability and an underling aptitude to apply appropriate theoretical and practical construction project management methods in the analysis and solution of design, engineering and construction problems.

Organise and plan construction projects and manage project information.

Understand and apply the underlying theory in the management of construction’s consulting, contracting and development businesses, including human resource issues, finance and accounting, and organisational issues.

Lead and work effectively with project teams and communicate effectively in a variety of forms including digitally, orally and in writing.

Understanding the expectations of clients, developers, financiers, and investors in the project.

Analyse corporate problems, design and implement strategies for change.

Acquire investigative, analytical and reporting skills. (The major difference between the MSc and the Diploma is the independent Research Project and associated dissertation undertaken by MSc candidates after completing the taught programme. The Research Project provides an opportunity for students to independently produce a structured research document).

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students’ acquisition of core knowledge and understanding is achieved primarily through independent study supported by lectures, tutorials and group work.

In the case of the MSc independent Research Project students will, with appropriate Supervision, independently produce a structured research document with clear aims and objectives, stating hypotheses to be tested within a relevant CPM area. The research will include a review of research methodologies, a comprehensive literature review and the development of research questions to test their hypotheses in a social sciences research context. The dissertation will clearly communicate their analysis of the data obtained, how it may or may not align with literature or agree with their hypotheses. It will also discuss implications for practice within the construction industry.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is made using unseen written examinations (where required), coursework, and in oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.

In the case of the MSc independent Research Project, assessment will be on an 18,000-20,000 word dissertation plus a 5,000 word, publication standard, summary paper.

Learning Outcomes: Subject Specific

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Integrate statistical methods and qualitative data to find solutions to real problems in the management of construction’s consulting, contracting and development businesses in the context of construction project management.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Student’s practical skills are developed through independent study supported by lectures, tutorials and group work.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is made using unseen written examinations (where required), coursework, and in oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.

Analyse and solve problems using a multidisciplinary approach, applying professional judgments to balance costs, time, quality benefits, safety and social and environmental impact.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Student’s practical skills are developed through independent study supported by lectures, tutorials and group work.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is made using unseen written examinations (where required), coursework, and in oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.

Integrate and critically evaluate information.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Student’s practical skills are developed through independent study supported by lectures, tutorials and group work.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is made using unseen written examinations (where required), coursework, and in oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.

Formulate and apply appropriate solutions.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Student’s practical skills are developed through independent study supported by lectures, tutorials and group work.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is made using unseen written examinations (where required), coursework, and in oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.

Prepare technical reports and give technical presentations.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Student’s practical skills are developed through independent study supported by lectures, tutorials and group work.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is made using unseen written examinations (where required), coursework, and in oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.

Use the scientific literature effectively.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Student’s practical skills are developed through independent study supported by lectures, tutorials and group work.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is made using unseen written examinations (where required), coursework, and in oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.

Plan, conduct and write-up a programme of original research.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Student’s practical skills are developed through independent study supported by lectures, tutorials and group work.

In the case of the MSc independent Research Project students will, with appropriate Supervision, independently produce a structured research document with clear aims and objectives, stating hypotheses to be tested within a relevant CPM area. The research will include a review of research methodologies, a comprehensive literature review and the development of research questions to test their hypotheses in a social sciences research context. The dissertation will clearly communicate their analysis of the data obtained, how it may or may not align with literature or agree with their hypotheses. It will also discuss implications for practice within the construction industry.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment is made using unseen written examinations (where required), coursework, and in oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.

In the case of the MSc independent Research Project, assessment will be on an 18,000-20,000 word dissertation plus a 5,000 word, publication standard, summary paper.

MODULE INFORMATION

Programme Requirements

Module Title

Module Code

Level/ stage

Credits

Availability

Duration

Pre-requisite

 

Assessment

 

 

 

 

S1

S2

 

 

Core

Option

Coursework %

Practical %

Examination %

Procurement and Contract Administration

CIV7082

7

20

YES

YES

24 weeks

N

YES

60%

0%

40%

Research Methods for Managers

CIV7069

7

10

YES

12 weeks

N

YES

100%

0%

0%

Project Management, Planning and Control

CIV7076

7

20

YES

YES

24 weeks

N

YES

60%

0%

40%

Design Co-Ordination

CIV7068

7

10

YES

12 weeks

N

YES

100%

0%

0%

Construction Economics and Facilities Management

CIV7077

7

20

YES

YES

24 weeks

N

YES

25%

0%

75%

Strategic Management and International Construction

CIV7075

7

20

YES

YES

24 weeks

N

YES

100%

0%

0%

Dissertation

CIV7078

7

60

YES

12 weeks

N

YES

100%

0%

0%

Construction Law

CIV7074

7

20

YES

YES

24 weeks

N

YES

15%

0%

85%

Notes

Students cannot submit their thesis with any taught element (coursework and/or examination) still outstanding.