MSc in Built Environment: Environmental Design and Engineering, University College London

12 Months

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About this course

The MSc in Built Environment: Environmental Design and Engineering at UCL is designed to prepare students for careers in sustainable building design and operation. It aims to address urgent environmental issues by teaching innovative approaches and tools to design efficient, healthier buildings in the context of climate change. The course combines industry relevance with cutting-edge research, integrating practical experience through case studies, field trips, and site visits. Students gain skills in energy demand fundamentals, indoor environmental quality, passive design, natural and mechanical ventilation, solar heating and cooling, and whole-life carbon emissions evaluation. The program emphasizes the application of advanced simulation and modelling tools, hands-on experiments in state-of-the-art facilities, and the ability to evaluate and improve building performance for sustainability and health.

Why this course is highly recommended

This MSc stands out because it offers industry and research-led education from a top-ranked faculty in the built environment. It provides hands-on experiences with current tools and methods used by leading firms globally, fostering employability and industry connections. The program's focus on net-zero carbon design, health and wellbeing in buildings, and sustainable technologies makes it highly relevant for addressing the pressing challenges in the built environment. Graduates are well-positioned for roles in architecture, low-energy design consultancies, and building services engineering, with the added benefit of accreditation for further professional recognition.

Specialisation

Specialist interests can be explored through optional modules that include advanced building simulation, retrofit, indoor air quality, acoustics, energy systems modelling, and more. The program offers a multidisciplinary approach, allowing students to tailor their learning towards areas of particular interest within sustainable environmental design and engineering.

Course fees

Application fees

36.31L

1st year tuition fees

36.31L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants should have a second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline such as architecture, engineering, physics, or other built environment fields from a UK university or an equivalent overseas qualification. If the degree is from a non-relevant field, applicants must clearly explain how their educational or work background relates to the program in their personal statement. English language proficiency at Level 2 is required, with options for pre-master's and pre-sessional courses available for international students.

English language test

PTE

DUOLINGO

TOEFL

IELTS

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the University College London admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates typically proceed into roles focused on energy performance, sustainability, and net-zero carbon buildings within architecture, design consultancies, and engineering firms. Many alumni work for prestigious companies like Foster and Partners, Arup, WSP, and others, often taking leadership positions. The program’s strong industry links and practical training in simulation, indoor environmental quality monitoring, and sustainable design position students for a competitive edge in the growing green building sector.

FAQs

What are the application deadlines for international students requiring a visa?

Applications open on 14 October 2024 and close on 27 June 2025 at 5 pm UK time.

What are the main costs involved besides tuition fees?

Students should budget approximately £30 for personal expenses during field trips and up to £60 across the year for transport to site visits in London. The cost of a monthly Oyster card for zones 1-2 is about £114.50.