Course Overview
Course summary
Despite turbulence in the global economy, the construction industry continues to grow, with revenue expected to reach US$15 trillion by 2025. Specialist project managers are in high demand to help negotiate projects through the inevitable hurdles that can arise due to a host of issues ranging from time constraints and safety and workforce considerations to legal issues, government regulations and environmental concerns.
Fully accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), this course will be of interest if you are a graduate in or with previous construction-related employment and if you are seeking a senior project management position within the industry.
Project management is now a well-established discipline within the construction industry, applied to projects of all sizes and levels of complexity. On this course, you’ll learn the modern management skills, techniques, and systems to successfully deliver a project from inception to completion, and how to meet a client’s requirements within the constraints of the external environment.
Our central London location and numerous industry contacts, which include client organisations, public and private Tier 1 consultants and contractors and Tier 2 consultants, contractors and suppliers, enable us to invite practising professionals to contribute regularly to the course and to give guest lectures.
You'll have the chance to apply your skills and knowledge to real-life practical problems through case studies. When possible, we also visit construction sites in London, so you can see how developers overcome some of the issues associated with developing in a challenging environment like the centre of a large metropolis, such as traffic and transportation.
Top reasons to study with us
- Fully accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB)
- Delivered by a multicultural and international teaching body who come from professional practice and/or regularly publish in top international journals
- Take part in site visits to major construction sites and infrastructure projects in the UK
- Active student-run Construction Society that organises trips and socials, which in 2020 included visiting the mega development in London on the old Battersea power station site
- Previous students have attended the week-long Constructionarium at the CITB training facility, building scaled-down versions of various structures, from start to finish, and including setting out, creating formwork, steel fixing and pouring concrete – as close as we can get to a working construction site
- Option to take part in the International Building Challenge, a joint activity between the University of Westminster and Saxion University of Applied Science in Enschede, Netherlands, involving students from both institutions as well as universities in Belgium, Russia and Germany
Course structure
This course aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the techniques associated with the management of project resources, the control of project finances, the management of risk and the management of people. It provides a challenging, stimulating and professionally relevant course of study that is directly related to the management of construction projects within this rapidly changing industry.
You’ll study project management in depth, focusing on the management techniques and systems required to successfully manage all aspects of construction projects, as well as the people involved in delivering them. You'll study six core modules (including the double Project Management module) and choose one optional module.
Developing your skillset, you’ll become adept at critical analysis, evaluation, decision-making and problem-solving, enhancing your leadership, communications and time-management abilities at the same time. Topics covered include the principles of client requirements, critical success factors, sustainability, evaluation of project options, structured methodologies, and the concept of whole-life costing.
The following modules are indicative of what you will study on this course.
Core modules
The key principles of construction project planning, from initial briefing to managing the construction process. Analysis of management systems in the context of successfully coordinating and delivering a construction project. Monitoring and control systems.
20 credits
This module will investigate strategic management issues in relation to organisations that commission and deliver construction projects.
20 credits
The module will investigate the management of uncertainty and risk in a construction project environment, examining both qualitative and quantitative techniques.
20 credits
The module considers how projects are set up and run. It examines how to ‘do the project right’ from an operational perspective as opposed to ‘doing the right project’. Areas covered include the project lifecycle from inception to disposal, stakeholder management, soft landings, project finance, leadership and the development of effective project teams.
20 credits
The key stages in the procurement cycle for construction projects. Critical success factors, client requirements, the statutory and legal framework UK and WTO/GATT, procurement and contract strategies, tendering practices, procurement governance and sustainable procurement.
20 credits
The module aims to build up practice-based skills by enabling students to produce a report based on an individually conducted research project. Students will be supported by a series of research methods classes and by the appointment of a supervisor, who will provide advice and guidance throughout a research project.
40 credits
The module considers the strategic context within which projects are initiated. It seeks to examine how to ‘do the right project’ from a strategic perspective as opposed to ‘doing the project right’. The module reviews business and organisational and practical tools and techniques in determining and delivering strategy in a project environment.
20 credits
Option modules
The key principles of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) covering mediation, adjudication, arbitration and expert determination. Analysis of the differences, strengths, and weaknesses among the different ADR options.
20 credits
Developing critical conceptual knowledge of the design and construction stages and integrated management of both. Evaluating, devising and applying techniques for the design and construction projects, taking into account various factors such as user/client needs, function, structural behaviour, sustainability, buildability and aesthetics of a design and the technical requirements of its construction.
20 credits
The module considers the legal context within which construction projects are procured, managed and delivered in the UK and internationally. It will investigate the key areas of the law that affect contract management including Tort, Contract, Statutory Legislation and Dispute Resolution. Emphasis in standard building contracts.
20 credits
The selection, development and maintenance of effective and efficient teams throughout the duration of projects. The principles of team selection, group dynamics and appraisal. The process of identifying client requirements for team deliverables.
20 credits
Professional accreditation
This course is fully accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).
For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).
To request an accessible version please email [email protected]
Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.
Contact us for general course enquiries:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm GMT)
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Open evenings
Join us at an open evening online or on campus. Get a feel for student life at the University of Westminster and talk to course leaders and our support teams.
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Careers
There is a growing demand for construction project managers nationally and internationally with potential to secure roles in development, construction and building companies or government organisations and agencies, as well as commercial, management and consultancy firms.
Many of our students are already on a career path in the construction industry. Whether they are architects, interior designers, surveyors, engineers, construction managers or property developers, their common aspiration is to move to more senior management positions in the construction industry. Some wish to become Chartered Surveyors or Chartered Builders.
Our graduates go on or continue to work in the construction industry, working for client organisations, consultancies, Tier 1 and 2 contractors, property developers, and others.
With a growing global network of 3,000 employers, our Careers and Employability Service is here to support you to achieve your full potential.
Develop your CQ
Develop your cultural intelligence – or ‘CQ’ – studying alongside students and staff representing more than 100 nationalities.
Expand your professional network
Study alongside students with experience of working in a variety of roles within the construction industry – from architects and engineers to surveyors or managers – building professional networks and learning about different disciplines.
Meet leading employers
Our Annual Property and Construction Careers Fair attracts leading employers, which in 2019 included CBRE, Mace, Barratt Developments, Savills, Carter Jonas and Grainger.
Industry links
Our course was designed with input from a range of industry professionals and, to retain currency and relevance, we receive ongoing feedback from the School’s Employability Advisory Board. Current members include practitioner representatives from the multinational construction, property and infrastructure company Lendlease, commercial property experts Chase and Partners, and CABE.
We are proud of our excellent industry links with a host of construction companies and key professional bodies, including RICS, CIOB and CABE. They enable us to host a highly successful Annual Property and Construction Careers Fair, which in 2019 attracted 40 employers including:
- CBRE
- Mace
- JLL
- Barratt Developments
- Bouygues UK
- Savills
- Carter Jonas
- Grainger
Immensely popular with our students, the fair provides a unique opportunity to meet with leading employers in the property and construction sector, learn first-hand about their organisations, secure work experience or receive guidance from a panel of speakers on the graduate scheme application process for some of the larger employers.
Job roles
This course will prepare you for roles such as:
- Chartered builder
- Chartered surveyor
- Construction project manager
- Project manager
Graduate employers
Graduates from this course have found employment at organisations including:
- Bouygues UK
- Costain Group Plc
- Gleeds
- MACE
- TFL
- Turner Townsend
- Wilmott Dixon
Westminster Employability Award
Employers value graduates who have invested in their personal and professional development – and our Westminster Employability Award gives you the chance to formally document and demonstrate these activities and achievements.
The award is flexible and can be completed in your own time, allowing you to choose from a set of extracurricular activities.
Activities might include gaining experience through a part-time job or placement, signing up to a University-run scheme – such as mentoring or teaching in a school – or completing online exercises.
Read more about our Westminster Employability Award.
Course Leader
Niall O'Dwyer
Senior Lecturer
Niall graduated with a Civil Engineering diploma from Limerick Institute of Technology in 1999 when he began working as an Assistant Site Engineer on groundworks and refurbishment projects in London. In 2002, he completed his degree at Kingston University and gained employment as a site engineer in the r.c. frame sector on high-rise projects. In 2005, he completed a Master’s degree in Construction Project Management while continuing to work. Prior to joining the University of Westminster as a lecturer in 2021, he spent 14 years working in the refurbishment and basement construction sector in project management roles in sub-contracting and main contracting, with a specialisation in structural and temporary works.
It is an honour and a privilege to work at the University of Westminster, and to share my knowledge and experience with the next generation of construction professionals at this key stage in their careers.
Course Team
Teaching and assessment
The central aim of the teaching and learning strategy is to promote the development and delivery of a sustainable built environment to meet the needs of clients both nationally and internationally. The principles of construction technology, professional practice, ethics, health and safety and Construction (Design and Management) Regulations, fundamental to the delivery of the built environment, are covered.
How you’ll be taught
This course is delivered via ‘blended learning’, which combines the discipline and structure of regular attendance at the University with the flexibility of online study.
Web-based technologies are used to ensure that you have access to course materials and, where appropriate, online lectures. You will be able to interact with tutors and other students, often in real time, via online tutorials. We provide reading lists, lecture and seminar materials in advance via Blackboard, our virtual learning environment. You also have access to a range of electronic resources including e-books, e-journals and online databases.
Extensive use is made of ‘enquiry-based learning’, whereby you’ll work collaboratively to tackle complex scenarios you may encounter in the workplace, which helps you gain a much deeper understanding of the material. Furthermore, you develop high-level intellectual skills such as analysis, synthesis and evaluation, the skills needed to tackle complex problems in real life.
You’ll be given opportunities to take part in site visits to major UK construction sites and infrastructure projects, and gain valuable insight from current practitioners, which in the past has included guest lectures from Great Portland Estates, The Portman Estate, The Crown Estate, Lendlease, Mace, GoReport and RICS.
In the following graph you'll find examples of how study time has been distributed in the past (data from the academic year 2023/24). Changes to division of study time may be made in response to feedback and in accordance with our terms and conditions. Learning typically falls into three broad categories:
- Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
- Placement: placement hours normally include placement opportunities, but may also include live projects or virtual activity involving employers
- Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision
How you’ll be assessed
Using a wide range of techniques, you can expect to be assessed on the learning outcomes of your course in core modules through coursework in the form of essays, reports, presentations and case studies, as well as time-constrained in-class tests.
We try to make assessments as practical and industry relevant as possible, incorporating the type of work required by future employers. Assessment generally assesses the application of knowledge.
In the following graph you'll find an indication of what you can expect (data from the academic year 2023/24). Changes to assessment weights may be made in response to feedback and in accordance with our terms and conditions. Assessments typically fall into three broad categories:
- Practical: examples include presentations, podcasts, blogs
- Written exams: end of semester exams
- Coursework: examples include essays, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation
Why study this course?
Supporting your career path
Designed for construction professionals who aspire to move to more senior positions in the construction industry at a strategic or operational level.
Combine theory and practice
Link theory to global practice through real-life case studies, guest lectures, field trips and construction site visits.
Taught by experts
Expert staff will share their professional experiences of working for the biggest building surveying firm in the UK, a range of private practice quantity surveying consultancies, a residential development company and university estates department.
Entry Requirements
A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in a related subject area and be in, or have been in, relevant employment in a professional or managerial capacity. Relevant degree disciplines include construction, architecture or civil engineering. Alternatively, you may hold membership in a recognised construction-related professional body achieved through examinations and/or professional interviews and have professional or managerial experience in a construction-related post. Exceptionally, consideration will be given to applicants who lack standard qualifications but have significant relevant professional or managerial experience.
If your first language is not English you should have an IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each component.
Applicants are required to submit one reference.
View more information about our entry requirements and the application process.
A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in a related subject area and be in, or have been in, relevant employment in a professional or managerial capacity. Relevant degree disciplines include construction, architecture or civil engineering. Alternatively, you may hold membership in a recognised construction-related professional body achieved through examinations and/or professional interviews and have professional or managerial experience in a construction-related post. Exceptionally, consideration will be given to applicants who lack standard qualifications but have significant relevant professional or managerial experience.
If your first language is not English you should have an IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each component
Applicants are required to submit one reference.
More information
University preparation courses
Our partner college, Kaplan International College London, offers Pre-Master’s courses that may help you gain a place on a postgraduate degree at Westminster.
To find out more, visit University preparation courses.
What our students say
Amelia Wilson
Construction Project Management MSc - 2024
Choosing the University of Westminster for my postgraduate studies was a natural progression following the completion of my undergraduate degree in July 2023. The decision was primarily influenced by the exceptional quality of teaching imparted by seasoned professionals within my chosen field during my undergraduate studies.
Student work
Our students have an opportunity to take part in the week-long international Building Challenge, a joint activity between the University of Westminster and Saxion University of Applied Science in Enschede, Netherlands.
Bringing together students from both institutions, as well as universities in Belgium, Russia and Germany, you’ll spend around 40 hours working in mixed international teams on a real assignment, using the different approaches of architecture and construction in different cultures to come up with new creative ideas for renovation of the built environment.
Past assignments have included transforming office spaces to residential purposes and restoring a historical timber-framed building.
Learn new skills
Develop critical evaluation skills
Learn to critically evaluate strategies to ensure climate resilience in building refurbishment.
Improve your problem-solving skills
Improve your problem-solving skills to recognise building defects and recommend solutions suitable for commercial clients.
Gain extra qualifications
We provide access to free online courses in Adobe and Microsoft Office applications, as well as thousands of specialist courses on LinkedIn Learning.
Westminster Business School blog
Read our blog and get an insight into life and studies at Westminster Business School.
Fees and Funding
UK tuition fee: £14,700 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There is a range of funding available that may help you fund your studies, including Student Finance England (SFE).
Find out more about postgraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs information
To check what your tuition fees cover and what you may need to pay for separately, see our What tuition fees cover page.
International tuition fee: £17,500 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There are a number of funding schemes available to help you fund your studies with us.
Find out more about funding for international students.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs information
To check what your tuition fees cover and what you may need to pay for separately, see our What tuition fees cover page.
Supporting you
Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.
- Study support — workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
- Personal tutors — support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
- Student advice team — provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
- Extra-curricular activities — volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more
Course Location
In the heart of London, our Marylebone Campus is home to the Westminster Business School and our Architecture, Planning and Tourism courses. Specialist workshops, dedicated digital and architecture studios, and our extensive Marylebone Library offer students everything they need for academic success.
Marylebone Campus is opposite Baker Street tube station and within easy walking distance of Regent's Park and Marylebone High Street.
For more details, visit our Marylebone Campus page.
Westminster Business School
Based in the heart of London's political, media and financial services, Westminster Business School has excellent industry links and a strong commitment to social enterprise.
Our courses are accredited by professional bodies including the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM), Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
Our practical teaching relates learning to the real world, and we develop graduates who are ready to respond to contemporary business challenges.
Contact us
Call our dedicated team on:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
More information
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