Masters by Research in Built Environment - MRes *
Currently viewing course to start in 2025/26 Entry.
The MRes Built Environment is a flexible, research-intensive postgraduate course designed to equip graduates with the skills needed for careers in research, academia, or industry. It offers in-depth training in research methods alongside transferable skills in areas such as sustainability, urban design, project management, and technology....
- Level Postgraduate Research
- Study mode Full Time/Part Time
- Award MRes
- Start date September 2025
- Subject
- Location City Centre
This course is:
Open to International Students
Overview
The MRes Built Environment is a flexible, research-intensive postgraduate course designed to equip graduates with the skills needed for careers in research, academia, or industry. It offers in-depth training in research methods alongside transferable skills in areas such as sustainability, urban design, project management, and technology.
Students develop research proposals, apply contemporary methodologies, and gain experience in interdisciplinary collaboration. A key component is a substantial, independently conducted research thesis, supported by experienced supervisors and assessed by an external examiner to maintain academic standards.
The course balances independent research with taught modules that support the development of critical research skills tailored to the student’s chosen specialism. Suitable for graduates from fields like architecture, construction, surveying, planning, real estate, and engineering, the course enables students to explore specific built environment issues in depth.
Students gain experience in publishing, conference presentations, and professional research outputs, preparing them for doctoral study or specialist roles in industry. Emphasising autonomous learning, the course fosters expertise in research design, data analysis, and academic communication. Access to the College’s strong industry networks and research groups enhances opportunities for collaboration, employability, and progression to leadership roles within the built environment sector.
What's covered in this course?
- Supervised 120-credit MRes thesis, enabling in-depth, original research in a specialist area such as sustainability, urban development, or digital construction.
- Industry-linked research opportunities and case studies, with potential collaboration across multiple industry sectors.
- Advanced research methods training, forming a strong foundation for rigorous, independent inquiry within the built environment.
- Application of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies using industry-relevant tools and analytical techniques.
- Two specialist taught modules aligned with your research focus—examples include sustainable design, innovation in construction, BIM process and practice, or project management methods.
- Access to the Colleges strong research groups and their networks to enhance industry collaboration.
The MRes in Built Environment is designed to nurture the next generation of researchers and leaders in our sector. With a strong focus on independent inquiry, industry relevance, and academic rigour, it provides students with the tools and support needed to make meaningful contributions to the built environment, whether in academia, policy, or professional practice.
Positive quote from member of staff about the course.
Why Choose Us?
- Immersive Research Culture: Become part of an active and strong research community tackling complex challenges in the built environment supported by experienced academic mentors.
- Connected Research Networks: Access the College’s active research groups and their extensive industry links to support collaboration, innovation, and real-world impact in your chosen area of the built environment.
- Real-World Collaboration: Contribute to practice-based research projects with key players in construction, sustainability, and digital technologies, gaining valuable experience and industry insight.
- Personalised Research Focus: Shape your research journey through flexible modules and supervision in emerging themes such as Net Zero construction, BIM, and sustainable design.
- Pathway to Doctoral Study and Beyond: Strengthen your readiness for PhD-level research or strategic roles in industry through rigorous methodology training and critical engagement with your chosen field.
- Supportive Academic Environment: Access a dedicated support network including academic supervisors, wellbeing advisors, and research peers—within an inclusive and professionally engaged community.
OPEN DAY
Join us for an Open Day where you'll be able to learn about this course in detail, chat to students, explore our campus and tour accommodation.
Next Event: 28 June 2025
Research Interests
Fees & How to Apply
UK students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: MRes
Starting: Sep 2025
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 12 months
-
TBC
- Register interest
- Part Time
- 18 Months
-
TBC
- Register interest
International students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Entry Requirements
A good UK honours degree at 2:2 or above/equivalent in surveying, construction, civil engineering, real estate or any other construction subject.
International
Please see our international pages for further details of the entry requirements for our courses and information relevant to applicants from your country.
English language requirements
IELTS 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in each band, or equivalent. See details of accepted qualifications.
Professional Placement option*
The Professional Placement option will allow you to complete a credit bearing, 20 week Professional Placement as an integral part of your Master’s Degree. The purpose of the Professional Placement is to improve your employability skills which will, through the placement experience, allow you to evidence your professional skills, attitudes and behaviours at the point of entry to the postgraduate job market. Furthermore, by completing the Professional Placement, you will be able to develop and enhance your understanding of the professional work environment, relevant to your chosen field of study, and reflect critically on your own professional skills development within the workplace.
You will be responsible for finding and securing your own placement. The University, however, will draw on its extensive network of local, regional and national employers to support you in finding a suitable placement to complement your chosen area of study. You will also benefit from support sessions delivered by Careers+ as well as advice and guidance from your School.
Placements will only be confirmed following a competitive, employer-led selection process, therefore the University will not be able to guarantee placements for students who have registered for the ‘with Professional Placement’ course. All students who do not find a suitable placement or do not pass the competitive selection process will be automatically transferred back to the standard, non-placement version of the course.
Course in Depth
Module
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 180 credits):
Research Methods is a 20-credit postgraduate module that equips students with essential skills for conducting academic and applied research. It covers research design, literature review, critical analysis, academic writing, and presentation. Students complete a 2,500-word literature review (75%) and an academic poster (25%), developing their ability to communicate research effectively to diverse audiences.
The MRes thesis is a 120-credit substantial independent research project based on the candidate’s proposed theme within sustainable engineering. It focuses on rigorous methodology, data-driven analysis, and critical evaluation, supported by expert supervision. Candidates are encouraged to publish and present their findings to academic and industry audiences, developing advanced research skills for doctoral study or applied research careers.
How You Learn
At the heart of the MRes Built Environment is a commitment to student-centred learning to empower the student as a reflective, independent researcher. The course is designed to develop both advanced academic skills and professional insight through an engaging blend of learning formats. These include lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials, peer-review sessions, and action learning groups. Online content such as guided readings, video lectures, and discussion forums enhances accessibility and flexibility.
Critical thinking underpins the entire learning journey. Students will be encouraged to interrogate evidence, challenge assumptions, and draw their own conclusions based on rigorous analysis. A strong interdisciplinary ethos supports real-world application, encouraging reflection on the students professional context and integration of this into their research development.
The course is delivered in two stages. In the Research Foundation stage, students will undertake two specialist taught modules (each 20 credits) and a core research practice module. These are all designed to deepen the students expertise and prepare them for thesis work. A personal tutor, aligned with research interest, will support academic progress throughout this phase.
In the Thesis Development and Writing stage, tutors will typically transition into thesis supervisors, offering regular meetings and ongoing guidance. Supervision includes research methodology advice, formative feedback, and constructive critique to ensure academic rigour.
Students will also have opportunities to showcase their research at BCU’s annual postgraduate research conference. This is an excellent platform to connect with the wider research community. All learning is backed by access to specialist librarians, online scholarly databases, and BCU’s extensive digital library.
Further Study
The MRes in Built Environment provides an excellent foundation for progression to doctoral-level study. With its strong emphasis on independent research, critical analysis, and advanced methodology, the course is specifically designed to prepare students for the academic rigour of a PhD. Students develop a substantial research thesis, gain experience in scholarly communication, and build the confidence and capability needed to pursue original contributions to knowledge. Graduates are well-positioned to continue their academic journey, whether through funded PhD opportunities or self-directed research, and are supported by experienced supervisors and access to the University’s active research community and resources.
Employability
Enhancing your employability skills
The MRes in Built Environment is designed not only to advance academic knowledge but also to equip students with the professional competencies highly valued across the built environment sector. Through a focus on independent research, problem-solving, and evidence-based thinking, students develop key transferable skills that enhance their employability in a wide range of roles within industry, consultancy, government, and academia.
At the core of the programme is a substantial, self-directed research project. This encourages critical thinking, project planning, data analysis, and written communication, all skills essential for leadership and innovation in professional practice. Students are trained in research methodologies and project management, enabling them to structure and deliver complex assignments to professional standards and tight deadlines.
Interactive seminars, workshops, and peer engagement activities support the development of collaborative working, interdisciplinary thinking, and effective communication which reflects the nature of contemporary built environment teams. The ability to formulate and investigate real-world problems using robust methods prepares students to contribute meaningfully in roles requiring strategic insight, policy analysis, sustainability planning, digital transformation, and technical leadership.
Throughout the course, students engage with academic staff, industry contacts, and fellow researchers, building valuable networks and professional confidence. Exposure to specialist tools, current research themes, and sector challenges ensures graduates are well-versed in the evolving demands of the industry.
Whether aiming for a PhD, progressing within an existing role, or seeking a specialist or leadership position, MRes graduates leave with a portfolio of skills and experience that supports long-term career growth and adaptability.
Graduate Jobs
Graduates of the MRes in Built Environment will be well-equipped for careers across academia, industry, consultancy, and policymaking. The course provides a strong foundation for progression to PhD study and roles in academic research, as well as positions within government, NGOs, and the private sector. Key employment destinations include urban planning, digital construction, sustainability policy, smart cities, environmental consultancy, and international development.
The course is designed to develop a range of high-level employability skills that are in demand across the built environment sector. These include advanced research competencies in both quantitative and qualitative methods, strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, and the capability to manage and deliver independent research projects. Graduates will also develop excellent communication skills, enabling them to present findings effectively to academic, professional, and public audiences.
By engaging with real-world challenges through applied research, students gain practical experience that enhances their readiness for both academic and industry roles. Assessment methods are closely aligned with professional expectations, including research proposals, funding applications, stakeholder presentations, and collaborative projects with industry partners. These experiences build confidence and a research portfolio that can be shared with employers or used in PhD applications.
Through its interdisciplinary focus and alignment with global built environment challenges, the MRes cultivates the agility and critical thinking needed for leadership roles. Graduates will be able to contribute to evidence-based innovation and policy, positioning themselves as research-informed professionals in an evolving and competitive sector.
Links to industry
The MRes in Built Environment is enriched by the College of Built Environment’s strong and dynamic partnerships with leading organisations across the construction, real estate, and consultancy sectors. These strategic collaborations ensure that the student learning experience is rooted in the demands of industry, with opportunities to engage directly with professionals and research active partners throughout their academic journey.
Our links with major firms such as BAMRider Levett BucknallKierCushman & WakefieldCBRETaylor WimpeyWilmott Dixon Group, andMott MacDonald provide a gateway to valuable industry insight, project-based learning, and potential collaboration on real world research challenges. These partnerships support the integration of applied knowledge into the curriculum and offer students access to authentic data, case studies, and research mentorship.
MRes students will also be encouraged to participate in guest lectures, workshops, and industry events, strengthening their professional network and enhancing career readiness. This industry-embedded learning environment ensures that graduates of the MRes are equipped not only with advanced research skills, but with the real world knowledge, credibility, and connections to lead innovation in the built environment, both in the UK and globally.
Facilities & Staff
MRes Built Environment students have access to an exceptional suite of research facilities designed to support advanced, practice led investigation. At the heart of this is STEAMhouse, our £70 million innovation centre, where researchers, designers, and industry leaders collaborate to tackle real-world challenges. They will have access to specialist labs, digital design studios, and collaborative project spaces equipped with the latest tools in BIM, sustainability modelling, and digital construction.
The College of Built Environment also benefits from established research groups that connect students with active academic projects and external partners across the design, construction and real estate sectors. Students will benefit from access to state of the art software, immersive technologies, and live data streams, all supporting their thesis and professional development. Whether their focus is Net Zero, digital transformation, or urban regeneration, these facilities offer a stimulating, hands on environment to drive innovation and shape the future of the global built environment.