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Programme Specification

MSc Construction and Project Management

Academic Year 2022/23

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 processes. All degrees are awarded by Queen's University Belfast.

Programme Title MSc Construction and Project Management Final Award
(exit route if applicable for Postgraduate Taught Programmes)
Master of Science
Programme Code ARC-MSC-CP UCAS Code HECoS Code 100151 - Construction management - 100
ATAS Clearance Required No
Mode of Study Part Time or Full Time
Type of Programme Postgraduate Length of Programme Part Time - 2 Academic Years
Full Time - 1 Academic Year
Total Credits for Programme 180
Exit Awards available No

Institute Information

Teaching Institution

Queen's University Belfast

School/Department

Natural and Built Environment

Quality Code
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code

Higher Education Credit Framework for England
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/higher-education-credit-framework-for-england

Level 7

Subject Benchmark Statements
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/subject-benchmark-statements

The Frameworks for Higher Education Qualifications of UK Degree-Awarding Bodies
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/docs/qaa/quality-code/qualifications-frameworks.pdf

Architectural Technology (2014)

Accreditations (PSRB)

Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors

Date of most recent Accreditation Visit 19-05-14

Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) comprising of the Institution of Civil Engineers, Institution of Structural Engineers, Institute of Highway Engineers, the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation and the Permanent Way Institution on behalf of

Date of most recent Accreditation Visit 18-05-18

CIOB

Date of most recent Accreditation Visit 10-07-17

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 normally 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.

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 in the table below refer to JBM AHEP3 LOs for Master’s degree (other than integrated degree):
SMScience and mathematics
AEngineering analysis
DDesign
ELEconomic, legal, social, ethical and environmental context
PEngineering practice
GAdditional general skills

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 coursework (individual and group submissions) and oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.
In the case of the MSc independent Research Project, assessment will be a dissertation piece.

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 coursework (individual and group submissions), and oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.
In the case of the MSc independent Research Project, assessment will be a dissertation piece.

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 coursework (individual and group submissions), and oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.
In the case of the MSc independent Research Project, assessment will be a dissertation.

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 coursework (individual and group submissions) and oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.
In the case of the MSc independent Research Project, assessment will be a dissertation.

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 coursework (individual and group submissions) and oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.
In the case of the MSc independent Research Project, assessment will be a dissertation.

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 detailed project programmes and use of qualitative and statistical analysis tools. 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; 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 detailed project programmes and use of qualitative and statistical analysis tools. The development of IT skills is 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 detailed project programmes and use of qualitative and statistical analysis tools. . 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 detailed project programmes and use of qualitative and statistical analysis tools. . 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 detailed project programmes and use of qualitative and statistical analysis tools. . 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 a dissertation.

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 coursework, and 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 coursework, and 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 coursework and 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.

Understand and apply tools and techniques used to address sustainability issues during project development, and understand how in the context of sustainability, the international legal framework may affect project planning and development


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 coursework and oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.

In the case of the MSc independent Research Project, assessment will be a dissertation.

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 coursework and 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 coursework and 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 coursework and 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 coursework and 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 coursework and 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 coursework and 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 coursework, and oral presentations by both individuals and project groups.

In the case of the MSc independent Research Project, assessment will be a dissertation.

Module Information

Stages and Modules

Module Title Module Code Level/ stage Credits

Availability

Duration Pre-requisite

Assessment

S1 S2 Core Option Coursework % Practical % Examination %
Facilities Management / Asset Management ARC7071 7 10 YES -- 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Organisations, People and Leadership ARC7072 7 10 YES -- 12 weeks N YES -- 80% 20% 0%
Construction Economics and Construction Finance ARC7073 7 20 YES YES 24 weeks N YES -- 100% 0% 0%
Construction Law 2 ARC7077 7 10 -- YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Emerging Digital Technology 1 ARC7070 7 10 -- YES 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Procurement, Contract Administration and Law ARC7067 7 20 YES YES 24 weeks N YES -- 100% 0% 0%
Project Management, Planning and Control ARC7075 7 20 YES YES 24 weeks N YES -- 100% 0% 0%
Building Information Modelling in Practice ARC7078 7 10 YES -- 12 weeks N -- YES 100% 0% 0%
Dissertation ARC7080 7 60 -- YES 12 weeks N YES -- 100% 0% 0%
Project Planning for Sustainability ARC7074 7 20 YES YES 24 weeks N YES -- 100% 0% 0%
Research Methods for Managers ARC7068 7 10 -- YES 12 weeks N YES -- 100% 0% 0%

Notes

Students can normally 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.