Sustainable Building: Performance and Design – (M.Sc.)

Contents

The course is divided into two parts: in Semester 1 students are introduced to various theories which provide a foundation for learning, leading onto practical application in Semester 2. Part-time students follow a similar sequence.

It is organised on a modular credit system, 120 credits for the postgraduate diploma (9 months full-time, 20 months part-time) and 180 credits for the master's degree (12 months full-time, 27 months part-time). Modules combine a ratio of taught to self-led study. For example, a module of 20 credits approximates to 200 hours of student effort, up to 36 hours of which will normally be devoted to lectures, seminars, individual tutorials or other staff contact. The remainder of the time is devoted to student-led study and assessment.

Please note: as courses are reviewed regularly, the module list you choose from may vary from that shown below.

The core modules for the MSc and PGDip are:

Building Physics and Thermal Comfort (20 credits) provides an introduction to the basic physics required to help develop low-carbon buildings which are both energy-efficient and comfortable.

The Sustainable Built Environment; a Bioregional Approach (20 credits) introduces the philosophy, theories and key concepts underpinning the principles of sustainable development and sustainability in relation to the built environment within the natural world. Sustainable design is of critical importance in tackling climate change creatively and providing dynamic environments for all life forms.

Post-Occupancy Building Evaluation (20 credits) focuses on the complex task of assessing the real (actual) performance of existing buildings in respect of energy use, environmental impact and occupant satisfaction, known as post-occupancy evaluation (POE).

Low Carbon Building Technologies 1 (10 credits) identifies and evaluates different low-carbon energy strategies to be incorporated whilst designing low-carbon buildings. The module will introduce different standards and benchmarks for low-carbon buildings, and highlight strategies and approaches that could be deployed in heating and cooling of buildings.

Low Carbon Building Technologies 2 (10 credits) identifies and evaluates the main low and zero carbon (renewable) technologies (LZT), available for buildings.

Modelling and Passive Strategies (20 credits) provides a theoretical and practical introduction to systematic building modelling as it is related to design with climate and location.

Sustainable Design in Context (20 credits) provides the opportunity to apply in practice the design principles gained in previous modules. It focuses on the challenge of reconciling regional identity and tradition with contemporary needs in building design and performance, relating to technological change and social transformation arising from globalisation, climate change and other factors.

The compulsory modules for the MSc are:

Research Methods and Design (10 credits) aims to advance your knowledge and understanding of research methods available to those wishing to improve buildings in terms of their sustainable design and performance. It presents a variety of qualitative and quantitative research methods and provides a forum for debate about research as well as giving the opportunity to gain practical research skills.

MSc Dissertation (50 credits) The synoptic research or design dissertation gives the opportunity for application and expansion of the material presented in the programme through independent research.

Teaching, learning and assessment

The teaching and learning methods reflect the wide variety of topics and techniques associated with sustainability, low-carbon and resource efficient design. Staff-led lectures provide the framework, background and knowledge base, and you are encouraged to probe deeper into the topics by further reading and review. Analysis, synthesis and application of material introduced in the lectures are achieved through professional and staff-led and workshops, group and one-to-one tutorials, student-led seminars, case studies and practical work which anticipates the design project.

The course is distinctive in a number of ways. It offers a complete module in post-occupancy evaluation based on our groundbreaking research in this area. Our international standing as research leaders in thermal comfort is directly reflected in our teaching of building design. We offer a sustainable design module focusing on a bioregional approach and our low carbon building technology modules uniquely combine strategic decision making with practical application. The synoptic design project and dissertation towards the end of the programme give the opportunity for application and expansion of the material generally presented in the programme through independent research.

The course attracts students from a diverse range of ages, backgrounds, gender and nationalities and this offers opportunities for interdisciplinary, globally-aware teaching and learning. Students are exposed to a variety of cultural perspectives and issues through the use of international case studies and draw on the strengths of their diversity through peer learning and group work.

An annual field trip is an opportunity to directly experience some of the very best of sustainable design projects in another culture. Previous field trips have been to Germany, Scotland and Denmark

The subject spectrum draws on the research strengths of the teaching staff and enables research to inform the teaching modules. You are encouraged where possible to take part in staff research projects. We attract some of the best students in the field, drawn by the integrating basis of the programme and its solid theoretical foundation on expertise within the university.