Course Structure

The MSc ADCM can be studied on a full-time or part-time basis. Teaching is delivered across academic semesters. Full-time students will complete taught modules during the standard teaching semesters, followed by a summer dissertation. Part-time students will complete the programme over four taught semesters, followed by the dissertation. The part-time route typically takes 24 to 30 months to complete, depending on individual pace and circumstances.

• Full-time delivery: Two days per week (Mondays and Fridays)
• Part-time delivery: One day per week (Monday in Year 1, Friday in Year 2)
• The research project/dissertation is undertaken after the taught modules. For part-time students, this is normally completed in Year 3, with the option to fast-track over the summer of Year 2.

The course consists of eight compulsory modules, including a major research project. There are no electives, as all modules have been carefully designed to ensure the development of an integrated and practice-ready digital construction skillset.
The curriculum is delivered through:
• Lectures led by academic and industry-based lecturers
• Hands-on computer tutorials
• Interactive workshops
• Guest lectures and industry engagement activities
Assessment is entirely coursework-based, including reports, technical projects, simulations, and presentations.

Core Modules
Advanced Digital Techniques in Project Planning and Control
Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics in Construction Management
Advanced BIM with Digital Twins Tools for Project Managers
Digital Applications for Low-Carbon Construction
Emerging Digital Technologies
Research Methods for Project Managers
Procurement, Contract Administration, and Law
Project (Dissertation)

Course Details

Compulsory Modules:
1. Advanced Digital Technologies in Project Planning and Control (20 CATS)

This module focuses on the integration of digital tools and AI-driven analytics in the planning, scheduling, and cost control of construction projects. Students explore project lifecycle stages from feasibility through to delivery, examining how AI and automation can improve schedule forecasting, resource allocation, risk modelling, and progress tracking. Tools such as ASTA Powerproject BIM, Power BI, and Python are used to deliver time-risk simulations and control dashboards.

Students develop advanced skills in time planning, cost management, cash flow forecasting, and risk detection while evaluating ethical, legal, and sustainability factors. Emphasis is placed on the use of live project data and construction case studies to apply theoretical knowledge in practice.

2. Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics in Construction Management (20 CATS)

This module delivers in-depth training in the use of AI, data analytics, and machine learning to solve construction management challenges. Students learn to apply predictive modelling, anomaly detection, and automation techniques for tasks including cost estimation, schedule optimisation, safety monitoring, and quality assurance.

Core platforms such as Python, Azure ML, Power BI, and Scikit-Learn are used in hands-on labs. The module also explores data strategy, ethical use of AI, and data-driven decision-making frameworks in construction. Students build competence in both developing AI solutions and critically assessing their practical application and limitations.

3. Advanced BIM with Digital Twins Tools for Project Managers (20 CATS)

This module focuses on Building Information Modelling (4D and 5D) and Digital Twin technologies, equipping students with the skills to manage construction projects through integrated digital models across all project phases. Key applications include design coordination, simulation, progress visualisation, and asset lifecycle management.

Students will work with industry-standard platforms such as Navisworks, Synchro, Dynamo, and Azure Digital Twins, developing hands-on experience in creating, analysing, and applying digital models. The module also integrates sensor data, GIS, and IoT systems to enhance real-time coordination and monitoring. Emphasis is placed on decision support and performance tracking using Digital Twin infrastructure to drive data-informed construction management.

4. Digital Applications for Low-Carbon Construction (10 CATS)

This module examines strategies for reducing both operational and embodied carbon in construction, aligned with national net-zero targets. Students apply carbon accounting tools and conduct lifecycle assessments to estimate and mitigate environmental impacts.

Topics include whole-life carbon frameworks, sustainable material selection, AI-supported optimisation of energy performance, and the use of digital tools for carbon scenario modelling. Students evaluate real projects to propose carbon reduction strategies based on current guidelines and performance targets.

5. Emerging Digital Technologies (20 CATS)

This exploratory module introduces students to a suite of disruptive technologies transforming the construction sector. Topics include blockchain, automation, robotics, AI, laser scanning, photogrammetry, RFID, smart sensors, and sustainability analytics.

Through a design sprint and research-led learning, students critically assess the maturity, potential, and challenges of these technologies. Coursework promotes hands-on experimentation, stakeholder analysis, and innovation planning, encouraging learners to act as early adopters and change agents within digital construction transformation.

6. Research Methods for Project Managers (10 CATS)

Students are trained to plan and execute data-driven, practice-based research in construction. The module covers qualitative and quantitative methods, AI model evaluation, hypothesis development, digital ethics, and applied computational analysis.

Learners develop a research proposal aligned with the MSc project, combining literature review, gap analysis, and methodology design. Emphasis is placed on rigorous inquiry that links academic methods with industry relevance and digital tool integration.

7. Procurement, Contract Administration, and Law (20 CATS)

This module develops advanced understanding of construction procurement, contract administration, and legal frameworks. Students explore contract law principles, procurement strategy, and risk allocation using standard forms such as NEC and JCT.

It integrates digital innovations such as smart contracts, automated compliance systems, and AI-enhanced tendering. Learners gain practical skills in drafting, evaluating, and managing contractual obligations across traditional and digital construction environments, including public procurement and regulatory compliance.

8. Project (60 CATS)

The dissertation module provides the opportunity to develop and deliver an applied digital solution to a real-world construction problem. Students define a research question, conduct critical literature and data reviews, select appropriate digital tools, and execute a practical project.

Emphasis is placed on original contributions using AI, data analytics, BIM, or emerging technologies. Supervisors guide students through Design Science Research or equivalent methodologies. Outcomes are expected to demonstrate both technical excellence and professional relevance, suitable for industry or academic dissemination.

Learning and Teaching

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ENVIRONMENT

Teaching takes place primarily in computer labs with class sizes of around 20 students for most hands-on modules. For broader modules like Research Methods, full-time students may be in larger groups of approximately 100 students, joining peers from diverse academic and professional backgrounds—including the UK, Ireland, India, China, Nigeria, Vietnam, Egypt, and Europe.

Classes typically start midday to accommodate students balancing work and study. You’ll also have access to the McClay Library, The Graduate School, and the full digital and physical resources of the School of Natural and Built Environment.

WHO WILL BE TEACHING YOU?

You will be taught by a small core of tutors with decades of academic and industrial experience in digital construction and project management.

The Programme Director is Dr Faris Elghaish, a Chartered Construction Manager with over 10 years of experience in digital construction. He has authored more than 50 publications in top-ranked journals such as Automation in Construction and has led several Innovate UK–funded projects focused on improving digital construction skills in collaboration with multiple companies.

Assessment

Assessments associated with the course are outlined below:

• All assessments are practical and project-based, with no formal written exams. The programme is designed to equip graduates with both the industrial practices of construction management—including planning, scheduling, cost engineering, procurement, and BIM standards—and hands-on skills in cutting-edge digital technologies relevant to the sector. These include Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), immersive technologies, advanced BIM modelling, and digital twins.

Facilities

• Elmwood High-Specification Computer Lab: Equipped with over 30 high-performance desktop machines dedicated to students on the BIM and ADCM programmes. The lab supports a range of industry-standard software, including Revit, Navisworks, Synchro, Power BI, Python, and Azure tools.
• IoT Device Sets: Available for tutorials and research projects, enabling hands-on experience with smart building systems and digital twin simulations.
• McClay Library: Offers extensive access to literature, specialist databases, software, and quiet study environments.
• The Graduate School: Provides dedicated postgraduate facilities, skills development workshops, and collaborative learning spaces.
• Lecture Theatres and Study Rooms: ADCM students use a variety of modern teaching spaces across Queen’s University Belfast for seminars, presentations, etc.

Modules

Career Prospects

Introduction

Graduates will be well positioned to pursue a wide range of high-demand careers, including but not limited to:
• Project Manager or Digital Project Leader
• BIM Manager or Digital Construction Coordinator
• BIM Data Analyst or BIM Automation Specialist
• Facility Manager or Digital Twin Consultant
• AI and Data Analytics Specialist in Construction
• Construction Data Scientist
• Sustainability-Focused Digital Engineer
• Smart Infrastructure Specialist
• Cost Engineer or Procurement Lead with AI-enhanced workflows
These roles span across construction, infrastructure, AI and tech, consultancy, urban planning, and more.

Employment after the Course

Graduates of the MSc in Applied Digital Construction Management are well positioned for a wide range of roles across the construction and infrastructure sectors. These include: Digital Construction Manager, BIM Automation Engineer, Smart Infrastructure Analyst, AI and Data Specialist in Construction, Project Controls Engineer (4D/5D BIM), Digital Delivery Manager for Capital Projects, Digital Twin Analyst, Construction Technology Integration Consultant, Low-Carbon Construction Strategist, Digital Project Planner, Innovation and Digital Lead, Asset Information Manager, and Smart Building Analyst.

In the UK and Northern Ireland, there is a clear and growing demand for construction professionals with advanced digital skills. Industry consultations during the development of this programme confirmed a significant shortage in expertise across areas such as digital construction workflows, automation, AI integration, and smart infrastructure delivery. The MSc in Applied Digital Construction Management has been co-designed with industry to directly address these gaps, in alignment with strategic frameworks such as the UK Government’s Construction Playbook, the Transforming Infrastructure Performance (TIP) Roadmap, and the Northern Ireland Digital Construction Strategy. The course ensures graduates are prepared to meet the evolving needs of the UK construction sector in digital project delivery, sustainability, and innovation leadership.

Countries such as India, China, Canada, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states are undertaking multi-trillion-dollar infrastructure programmes. These global initiatives create a sustained demand for digitally capable project leaders who can apply advanced technologies to deliver complex, sustainable, and high-performing built environment projects. Graduates of this programme are well equipped to contribute to international efforts to transform construction through digital innovation.
http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/

Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award for extra-curricular skills

In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised from a world leading university, you'll have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.

Tuition Fees

Northern Ireland (NI) 1	£7,300
Republic of Ireland (ROI) 2	£7,300
England, Scotland or Wales (GB) 1	£9,250
EU Other 3	£21,500
International	£21,500

¹EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled status, will be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB will be charged the GB fee.

² EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI are eligible for NI tuition fees.

³ EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees.

All tuition fees quoted relate to a single year of study unless stated otherwise. Tuition fees will be subject to an annual inflationary increase, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

More information on postgraduate tuition fees.

Additional course costs

All Students

Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies.

Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges.

Students undertaking a period of work placement or study abroad, as either a compulsory or optional part of their programme, should be aware that they will have to fund additional travel and living costs.

If a programme includes a major project or dissertation, there may be costs associated with transport, accommodation and/or materials. The amount will depend on the project chosen. There may also be additional costs for printing and binding.

Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen.

There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.

How to Apply

Apply using our online Queen's Portal and follow the step-by-step instructions on how to apply.

Apply now

Terms and Conditions

The terms and conditions that apply when you accept an offer of a place at the University on a taught programme of study.
Queen's University Belfast Terms and Conditions.

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