
Masters by Research in Built Environment - MRes *
Currently viewing course to start in 2025/26 Entry.
The Master of Research (MRes) in Built Environment is a flexible and comprehensive research training course designed to provide graduates with the skills and expertise necessary for a career in research, academia, or industry within the built environment sector....
- Level Postgraduate Research
- Study mode Full Time/Part Time
- Award MRes
- Start date September 2025, January 2026
- Subject
- Location City Centre
This course is:
Open to International Students
Overview
The Master of Research (MRes) in Built Environment is a flexible and comprehensive research training course designed to provide graduates with the skills and expertise necessary for a career in research, academia, or industry within the built environment sector. This course offers high-quality postgraduate training in research methods and practice, along with the development of transferable skills that will advance your knowledge in areas such as urban design, project management, sustainability, technology, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Throughout the course, you will engage in advanced research methods, from developing initial research ideas and proposals to applying contemporary research philosophies and methodologies. This process is designed to prepare you for further doctoral-level study, publishing your research, or demonstrating the skills required for a career in the built environment sector. You will also have the opportunity to specialise in a chosen area within the built environment, benefiting from the multidisciplinary expertise of our research team.
The MRes in Built Environment course is structured to provide a balance of independent research and taught elements, ensuring a rigorous research-focused experience. Central to the course is a major research thesis, where you will undertake a substantial independent research project within a specific area of the built environment. This thesis is subject to examination by an external examiner, maintaining the high academic standards expected of research degrees. In addition to the thesis, you will engage in taught elements that provide essential research training, with the opportunity to specialise in areas aligned with your research topic. These taught modules are designed to support the development of your research skills and are tailored to the specialism you choose to pursue in your thesis. The course is ideal for graduates from diverse academic backgrounds, including architecture, construction management, surveying, planning, real estate, engineering, and other built environment disciplines.
Key areas of focus include advanced research methodology, data analysis, and the development of independent research skills within a specific area of the built environment. The majority of the course is dedicated to conducting original research under the guidance of experienced supervisors, allowing you to focus deeply on a specialised topic. While some structured learning on research methods is included, the emphasis is on autonomous research, enabling you to engage critically with your chosen field. You will also develop essential skills in presenting your findings through professional outputs such as conference papers, grant proposals, and peer-reviewed journal articles. This approach ensures that you gain expertise in both your subject area and the research process, preparing you for successful careers in academia, research, or industry.
With a growing demand for skilled researchers in the built environment, this MRes course prepares you to make meaningful contributions to the sector, while also supporting your professional development and employability. You will have access to the College’s extensive industry networks and research groups, providing valuable opportunities to work with external partners and enhance your future career prospects.
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.
Paul Laycock - Senior Lecturer in Architectural Technology
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. Booking isn't open for this event yet, register your interest and we'll let you know when booking goes live.
Next Event: 15 November 2025
Research Interests
MRes students are typically embedded within the active research groups and have access to Specialist materials labs, visualisation and simulation tools, and expert supervision. Example areas of current interest include:
- BIM and Digital Construction
- Building and Urban Sustainability
- Circular Economy
- Construction and Digital Technologies.
- Cost Modelling
- Digital Twins
- Emerging Technologies in Construction
- Innovative Planning Design and Construction.
- Intelligent and High-Performance Buildings
- Net Zero Carbon
- Off Site Manufacturing / Construction
- Planning, Governance and Communities.
- Property, Space and Capital.
- Sustainable Construction
- Waste Management
Prospective MRes applicants are encouraged to explore potential research directions through discussion with academic staff or Professor Franco Cheung. We work closely with each applicant to shape a focused research proposal aligned with their interests and our supervisory capacity.
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
Award: MRes
Starting: Jan 2026
- 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.
Award: MRes
Starting: Sep 2025
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 12 months
-
TBC
- Register interest
Award: MRes
Starting: Jan 2026
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 12 months
-
TBC
- Register interest
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 you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 140 credits):
This module develops critical thinking and analytical skills, enabling students to select appropriate research designs, methodologies, and methods for complex built environment issues.
This is developed through lectures, seminars, and independent learning to explore quantitative and qualitative techniques in preparation for structuring a research proposal and enhance key transferable skills.
This module is the core of the MRes in Built Environment, providing hands-on experience in advanced independent research. Core to the module, students develop expertise in research design, data analysis, and academic writing while addressing key sector challenges. The module enhances critical thinking and prepares student for doctoral study or industry roles.
The course incorporates two 20-credit modules from the College’s existing MSc portfolio.
These are selected for the MRes student from 4 streams of study in the College (BIM and Digital Construction, Construction Project Management, Quantity Surveying and Real Estate Management) allowing students to be matched with one of the College’s existing research groups, and with a view to assigning Thesis supervision at the earlies possible stage in the journey and benefit from the world leading expertise of those groups.
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete at least 40 credits from the following indicative list of OPTIONAL modules:
This course is seeking to create effective, efficient and creative managers of construction projects from design right through to occupation. Innovation is a key aspect of this both in managers’ ability to conceive of new approaches but also to implement series of improvements and to cope with disruption. The module takes a ‘learning approach’ to innovating considering this at both the system level and the individual level. In this, it explores and challenges different conceptions of innovation and seeks to devise strategies for implementation and success within different contexts.
The aim of this module is to identify, apply and design data visualisations. The module provides you with the fundamental principles and practice-based activities needed to design data visualisations for both different contexts, and different types of data. More advanced visualisation concepts and tools for analysing multi-dimensional data and large data sets will also be examined and appraised.
This module explores various methods of project management within the context of construction. It explores the practical aspects of the development and construction process and in particular, those areas over which a Project Manager would expect to have some control. Themes such as specifications, programming, costing, stakeholder, risk and project control are addressed towards providing practical solutions. This module focuses on the practical skills needed for a project manager to effectively manage a construction project.
The programme seeks to develop the students with the knowledge and skills that will meet the challenges presented by change and innovation and provides opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds including international students, students with limited professional experience, as well as students looking for mid-career development in specialist areas related to quantity surveying. This programme will challenge the students to question their current thinking and the practices adopted in the face of a rapidly changing global construction industry, and develop their abilities to be innovative and creative in solving unique problems. This module is designed to provide students with the capability to take a 'whole life' approach to construction economics, including client, contracting and consulting roles in the industry through strong financial, analytical, interpretative and teamwork skills and to develop their risk awareness and the skills to analyse risks in the dynamic built environment.
This module focuses on the key surveying competencies of building pathology, inspection and measurement of land and property. The module draws on the various aspects of these competencies and their inter-relational qualities to develop a cohesive approach to the undertaking of a variety of surveys. You will be exposed to the range of data collection and data management techniques, the variety of surveys available for commercial and industrial property as well as evaluating the construction and condition of the building and the impact this might have on the viable use of the building. The need to collate information, integrate data from a variety of sources, reflect and formulate into a coherent professional report is a key employability skill.
The module introduces you to the legal framework that controls the use, occupation, management, acquisition and disposal of land and buildings, the complex nature of real property rights, and the obligations that go with those rights. The concepts and legal principles explored in this module are an essential underpinning of all professional activity in this field. The module also seeks to develop through the assessment some of the team working and time management skills required of a real estate manager in practice.
This module aims to provide a holistic view of the process and practice underlined by the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) as one of the mechanisms for integrated delivery. Using case studies and real life scenarios, the Module commences by identifying drivers and rationale to identify the business case for BIM in any project.
The programme seeks to develop the students with the knowledge and skills that will meet the challenges presented by change and innovation and provides opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds including international students, students with limited professional experience, as well as students looking for mid-career development in specialist areas related to quantity surveying. This programme will challenge the students to question their current thinking and the practices adopted in the face of a rapidly changing global construction industry, and develop their abilities to be innovative and creative in solving unique problems. The module focuses on educating practitioner professionals and cognate graduates to focus on adding value through detailed analysis and appreciation of professional relationships, costing techniques, buildability, design economics and procurement set within the current IT technology.
The module enables you to understand the importance of working within the boundaries of established professional best practice. It focuses on the skills and competencies that are required in practice to meet professional standards and expectations. This includes ethics; stakeholder analysis; business presentation skills; negotiation; conflict management, team working; reflexivity etc. The module is designed to encourage action research and develop your capacity to address the changing needs of the built environment professions and the wider industry, giving you currency within the market.
This module is designed to provide you with an overview of the social, practical and legal issues affecting property management. As with other modules in this programme, it has a practical emphasis and is designed to mirror the experience of real estate professionals working in the sector. More specifically, you will learn about the key principles of landlord and tenant law, financial planning and portfolio management for both residential and commercial properties. Over the course of this module, you will need to demonstrate an understanding of the principles that apply to property management by discussing them with your colleagues and applying them to practical scenario-type situations. Problem-based study aims to develop general competencies based on the kinds of abilities and skills required of a professional practitioner. As teaching will often take place in workshops, you will be provided with an opportunity to understand property management in a “real-world” context and see how appropriate solutions are devised.
Download course specification
Download nowHow 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.
Our staff
Professor Franco Kai Tak Cheung
Professor in Sustainable Built Environment, College Lead in Research, Innovation and Enterprise
As the Professor in Sustainable Built Environment, Prof Franco Cheung has consistently led transformative research and practical initiatives in sustainable construction, focusing on enhancing the productivity and performance of building design and construction while reducing the environmental impacts of development, particularly in terms of...
More about Franco Kai TakDr Hong Xiao
Senior Lecturer
Hong obtained his BEng in Industrial and Civil Buildings in 1985, and MSc in Construction Management in 1988 from Hunan University, China. He lectured there until 1998. He came to the UK in 1998 as an academic visitor sponsored by the Chinese Government, and then began his PhD study at the University of Wolverhampton. His PhD research project was...
More about HongDr Mohammad Mayouf
Senior Lecturer in Digital Built Environment
Dr Mohammad Mayouf teaches a range of modules across Construction Management, Quantity Surveying and Building Surveying both at Undergraduate and postgraduate levels. His expertise include embedding and applying the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) within the built environment teaching curriculums, and research and collaboration with...
More about MohammadDr Ilnaz Ashayeri
Senior Lecturer in Construction Management, Course Lead of Construction Management
Dr Ilnaz Ashayeri is a Senior Lecturer and Course Leader in Construction Management at Birmingham City University (BCU). With a PhD in Construction from Heriot-Watt University, she is an accomplished researcher and educator, with extensive experience in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) sectors. Dr. Ashayeri also holds an MSc...
More about IlnazDr. Ekanayake Mudiyanselage
Lecturer in Quantity Surveying
Anushika is a Lecturer in Quantity Surveying at the Department for Built Environment. She holds a PhD in the field of construction management and engineering from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and BSc in Quantity Surveying from the University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka. Her research interests include Supply Chain Resilience, Construction...
More about Ekanayake