Construction Project Management MSc



Any construction project needs to be expertly managed to ensure its successful completion.

Overview

The role of a Construction and Project Manager is to take responsibility for this outcome, managing all elements of the job, including contractors, materials, budgets and timelines.

A complex and often high-pressure role, requiring a methodical mind and excellent coordination skills, it's also one that can be hugely satisfying.

You'll graduate ready to take on major ventures, and be able to co-ordinate them efficiently and effectively.

You will gain an industry-recognised qualification as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). 

Typical entry points to this course are in January and September. Please enquire for more information.  

 
 
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Mode of Study:

Full-time (available as Part-time)

(available as Online-learning)

Duration:

1 year

Start date:

SepJan

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Course details

You will study six taught modules. A standard module is equivalent to 200 hours of learning and on successful completion of each module, you will achieve 20 credits towards your chosen award. 

You will also undertake personal research and complete a dissertation to gain 60 credits towards your masters degree.


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    How you’ll be taught

    The core material is delivered through lectures and tutorials taught by professionally qualified academic staff and industrial specialists. Independent study is required for each of the modules. Lectures present concepts, theory, techniques and background information.

    Students will undertake three taught modules in each of Trimesters 1 and 2 of the academic year and complete their dissertation in the final trimester.

    You can choose to start in either January or September.

    Duration:

      • September starts: 12 months
      • January starts: 18 months with a three-month break over the summer (after the first taught trimester)

    You will generally attend the university two days a week.

    Term dates are available through the website. This course can also be studied part-time and by online learning. 
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    Assessments

    Assessments

    Assessments are by a mixture of coursework, case study assignments, projects and exams. This can consist of a variety of tasks including report writing, essays, research briefs and posters. You will be provided with formative feedback throughout the modules. This will enable you to assess your progress and level of understanding. Full details of the assessment strategy for each module can be found in the module catalogue by clicking on further information for modules listed and then click on the down arrow beside the delivery date of the module.


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    Facilities

     All teaching will take place at the Merchiston Campus of Edinburgh Napier University. This is situated at the heart of the beautiful city of Edinburgh allowing the student easy access to one of the most desirable cities in the world.

    The campus is a modern and vibrant facility with state of the art teaching and student support facilities.

Modules

Modules that you will study* as part of this course

Building Economics ( BSV11111 )

This module is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the macroeconomic factors that influence the construction industry and the innovative practices that drive its growth and sustainability. You'll start by exploring the macroeconomic overview of the national economy, focusing on the five significant components: banks, households, government, firms, and the external sector. You'll learn how each of these components plays a crucial role in ensuring economic growth. However, the focus will be on the firm which is described as the construction industry in this module. You'll explore the role of the construction industry in driving other components of the macroeconomy.Additionally, you will delve into economic models of urban location and growth, learning about urban land economics and the theories that support urban development. You will examine the economic challenges that arise from construction activities in urban areas, providing you with insights into the economic aspects of urban problems caused by the construction industry. Furthermore, you'll explore the innovative practices adopted by construction firms to overcome urban economic challenges. You'll learn about balancing cost and value in construction projects, covering principles such as developers' budgets, whole-life costing, cost geometry, and value management. Also, you will explore how technologies driven by the Fourth Industrial Revolution are utilised by construction firms to reduce costs and enhance the value of their projects.Throughout this module, you'll engage in interactive lectures, group discussions, and hands-on projects designed to stimulate critical thinking and collaboration. By the end of the module, you'll have a solid foundation in macroeconomic principles as they relate to the construction industry, urban economic models, and innovative construction practices, preparing you for a successful career in the construction industry.

Further information

Dissertation ( BSV11120 )

The Dissertation module constitutes a substantial piece of independent work executed within the traditions of scholarship and research characteristic of a particular discipline. Students will learn various research skills which they will then apply to their own chosen research, including developing a research proposal, conducting literature reviews, research methodology, designing a research strategy, data gathering, data presentation, data analysis, and writing up of the dissertation. The choice of a dissertation topic is left to individual students and as long as the proposal can be developed into a dissertation, students shall be allowed to proceed. Each student is allocated a dedicated supervisor to guide the student in the various stages of the research.

Further information

Procurement Strategy ( BSV11104 )

In this module, you will critically evaluate construction procurement methods and analyse how client objectives influence procurement decisions. You will develop strategic skills to select suitable procurement approaches for construction projects. Additionally, you will examine key clauses and documentation in construction contracts, focusing on effective cost management, quality assurance, and timely project delivery. You will also learn how to apply these contractual clauses practically to resolve contractual issues encountered in professional construction practice.

Further information

Production Management ( BSV11103 )

In the Production Management module the following subjects will be covered:- Production management; Improving the performance of construction; Human resources in construction management; Plant and equipment for production; Subcontractors in construction; Materials management in construction; UK construction production issues; Construction as a manufacturing process; the role of construction scheduling in production performance and Building Information Modelling.

Further information

Project Appraisal and Finance ( BSV11102 )

This module equips you with the knowledge and skills to appraise and finance projects effectively, exploring the project life cycle from the feasibility stage to financial closure. Also, it will provide you with an indepth understanding of economic appraisal techniques, project finance instruments, and the role of financial institutions in domestic and international markets.The module is structured around two key areas. First, you will explore project appraisal techniques and learn how to evaluate construction projects using methods like the Discounted Cashflow Techniques, Capital Asset Pricing Model and Cost-Benefit Analysis. You will understand how to assess project feasibility, calculate required rates of return, and consider environmental impacts in your decision-making process. More so, you will also understand how to identify, evaluate, and mitigate risks associated with construction projects. This knowledge will enable you to make well-reasoned recommendations about project investments.Moreover, in relation to project finance, this module will provide you with practical insights into how construction projects are funded in both domestic and international markets. Also, you will explore a range of financial instruments, such as bonds, syndicated loans, and derivative products. You will also examine real-world applications through case studies focused on infrastructure projects in both emerging markets and developed economies.The knowledge and skills you develop will be directly applicable to real-world situations, which will prepare you for roles in project management, financial analysis, and investment decision-making within the construction sector. Whether you aim to work in project development, financial institutions, or consultancy, this module will provide you with the analytical skills and financial knowledge needed to evaluate and finance major construction projects.

Further information

Project Management ( BSV11101 )

This module introduces the subject of project management in construction and provides a foundation for the other modules in the MSc Construction Project Management Programme. The subjects addressed include: The nature of projects and of project management; the Project Management function and the duties and skills of the Project Manager; The construction client; The project team; Power, politics, authority and influence in Project Management; Defining the project and determining work content; Introduction to project programming; Network analysis; Advanced network analysis and Maintaining control.

Further information

Project Risk Management ( BSV11105 )

The aim of this module is to provide an overview of the risk management methodologies as well as an advanced understanding of the techniques used in risk management and analysis of construction projects in UK and worldwide (where applicable). The module introduces various risk analysis techniques applicable in construction-related businesses. On completion of the module, you are expected to have an improved knowledge on the following: - Principles and methodology of risk management - Decision analysis, evaluation and methods for Risks and Uncertainties - Theory on types of risks and the rational approaches to managing risks in national and international projects- Application of Utility Theory to construction and other projects- The Health and Safety Risks in Construction projects and advances in relevant legislation and regulations.

Further information

* These are indicative only and reflect the course structure in the current academic year. Some changes may occur between now and the time that you study.

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Disclaimer

Study modules mentioned above are indicative only. Some changes may occur between now and the time that you study.

Full information is available in our disclaimer.

Entry requirements

What are the entry requirements for Construction Project Management? 

The entry requirement for this course is a Bachelor (Honours) Degree at 2:2 or above. We look for applicants to have a background in any discipline in order to be eligible for the programme.

We may also consider applicants who have completed a Bachelor (Ordinary) degree if they have sufficient relevant work experience within the industry. There may also be an additional essay requirement if they apply with less than an Honours degree, this would be confirmed on submission of the application to the Admissions Team.

As this course is accredited by Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), the minimum level of qualification to be considered will be at Bachelor (Ordinary) degree level. To check the equivalence of your qualification or experience, please contact the Postgraduate Admissions team.

Can I make an appointment with an advisor to discuss further about the admission process?

If you want to get more information on the admission process, please get in touch with the postgraduate admissions team by submitting an enquiry form above.

 

If your first language isn't English, you'll normally need to undertake an approved English language test and our minimum English language requirements will apply.

This may not apply if you have completed all your school qualifications in English, or your undergraduate degree was taught and examined in English (within two years of starting your postgraduate course). Check our country pages to find out if this applies to you.

We welcome applications from students studying a wide range of international qualifications.
Entry requirements by country

Please note that international students are unable to enrol onto the following courses:
  • BM Midwifery/MM Midwifery
  • All Graduate Apprenticeship courses.

See who can apply for more information on Graduate Apprenticeship courses.

We’re committed to admitting students who have the potential to succeed and benefit from our programmes of study. 

Our admissions policies will help you understand our admissions procedures, and how we use the information you provide us in your application to inform the decisions we make.

Undergraduate admissions policies
Postgraduate admissions policies

Fees & funding

The course fees you'll pay and the funding available to you will depend on a number of factors including your nationality, location, personal circumstances and the course you are studying. We also have a number of bursaries and scholarships available to our students.

Tuition fees
Students from 2024/25 2025/26
Scotland, England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland £7,280 £7,650
Overseas and EU £20,395 £21,430
Tuition fees are subject to an annual review and may increase from one year to the next. For more information on this and other tuition fee matters, please see our Fees and Funding links above.
The University offers a 20% discount on Postgraduate Taught Masters programmes to its alumni. The discount applies to all full-time, part-time and online programmes. The discount can only be applied to year one of a full-time Postgraduate degree, any additional years are exempt from the discount. For part time Postgraduate degrees the discount will apply to years one, two and three only and any additional years will be exempt from the discount. Please read our full T&C here
Please note that the tuition fees liable to be paid by EU nationals commencing their studies from 1 August 2021 will be the Overseas fee rate. The University offers a range of attractive Tuition Fee bursaries to students resident in specific countries. More information on these can be found here.


Please note:

The discount for Edinburgh Napier alumni can only be applied to year one of a full-time Postgraduate degree, any additional years are exempt from the discount.

For part time Postgraduate degrees the discount will apply to years one, two and three only and any additional years will be exempt from the discount.

Please read our full T&C here

Careers

What can you do with a MSc Construction Project Management degree?

The MSc Construction Project Management course at Edinburgh Napier University provides a comprehensive understanding of the construction industry and equips students with a range of skills that are highly valuable in building a successful career in construction project management. You'll learn the fundamental principles and techniques of project management tailored specifically to the construction industry, including project planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and quality management.

Construction projects are inherently risky, and managing risks effectively is crucial for project success. You'll learn how to identify, assess, and mitigate risks throughout the project lifecycle.

By acquiring these skills through the MSc Construction Project Management course, you'll be well-equipped to pursue a successful career in various roles within the construction industry, such as:

  • Project manager
  • Construction manager
  • Site manager
  • Quantity surveyor
  • Contracts manager

What does an Construction Project Manager do?

As a construction project manager, your daily life can be quite varied and dynamic, involving a mix of office work, site visits, meetings, and communication with various stakeholders.

You may start your day by reviewing your schedule, emails, and any updates or issues that need immediate attention. Plan out your day and prioritize tasks accordingly. You will spend time in the office working on project planning, scheduling, and coordination activities.

Then depending on the stage of a project, you might visit construction sites to oversee progress, address any issues or concerns, and ensure that work is being carried out according to the plans, specifications, and quality standards. You also have to attend meetings with project team members, clients, contractors, subcontractors, and other stakeholders.

You have to constantly monitor project costs and expenditures, review invoices and change orders, and ensure that the project is staying within budget. You will also have to monitor the quality of workmanship and materials on the construction site, conduct quality inspections, and address any deficiencies or non-conformities.

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