Is this programme for me?
The Master of Science in Built Environment is designed for graduates and professionals who are passionate about advancing knowledge, research, and innovation within the built environment sector.
This programme is suitable for candidates from areas such as:
- Architecture
- Landscape Architecture
- Quantity Surveying
- Construction Management
- Urban and Environmental Studies
- Other related built environment disciplines
It is especially ideal for those seeking careers in academia, research, consultancy, industry, or further doctoral studies.
What will I learn?
Students will develop advanced research knowledge and analytical skills in the built environment field, including:
- Research design and methodology
- Critical thinking and academic writing
- Quantitative and qualitative research methods
- Data collection and analysis techniques
- Dissertation writing and publication skills
- Independent and interdisciplinary research capability
Students will also gain exposure to current issues, sustainability practices, innovation, and emerging technologies related to the built environment industry.
What should I expect?
This programme is fully research-based and requires students to conduct independent research under the supervision of experienced academic staff.
Students are expected to:
- Attend research methodology courses
- Prepare and defend a research proposal
- Conduct comprehensive research and data analysis
- Produce a dissertation/thesis
- Attend a viva voce examination upon completion
The programme provides a flexible and supportive research environment with guidance from academic supervisors and research experts.
What are the career prospects?
Graduates may pursue careers in:
- Academia and Research
- Built Environment Consultancy
- Construction and Project Management
- Urban and Environmental Planning
- Sustainable Development and Green Building
- Government and Local Authorities
- Research and Development (R&D)
- Professional Practice
- PhD and Advanced Research Studies
Programme Structure
Phase I – Coursework
- RESM7901 – Postgraduate Research Methodology
- ELPS7903 – English Language for Postgraduate Studies
This course may be taken during the early phase of study and is not necessarily limited to the first semester.
Phase II (A) – Proposal Defence
Candidates are required to publicly present and defend their Master’s research proposal. Only candidates who successfully pass the proposal defence may proceed to the research stage.
Phase II (B) – Dissertation Completion
- Data Collection
- Data Analysis
- Dissertation Writing
Upon completion and submission of the dissertation, candidates are required to undergo a viva voce examination.
Areas of Research
Research Cluster 1: Architectural Studies
Research in architectural design, sustainability, building performance, heritage, housing, and urban studies.
Research Cluster 2: Landscape Architecture
Research related to landscape planning, environmental design, ecology, and sustainable landscapes.
Research Cluster 3: Quantity Surveying
Research focusing on construction economics, cost management, procurement, and project finance.
Research Cluster 4: Construction Management
Research in project management, construction technology, BIM, safety, productivity, and sustainable construction.
Research Cluster 5: Urban Planning and Design Studies
Research related to urban planning, urban design, smart cities, community development, mobility, housing policies, place-making, and sustainable urban development within the built environment.
Research Cluster 6: Environmental Studies
Research focusing on environmental sustainability, climate-responsive development, environmental management, green infrastructure, environmental impact assessment, resilience, and socio-environmental issues in the built environment.
The programme encourages multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary research across all research clusters to address contemporary challenges in the built environment sector.
