University of Western Australia

What you'll study

This online master’s combines technical, managerial and standards-based study of Building Information Modelling (BIM). You will learn how to create, manage and interrogate digital asset information across project lifecycles, and how to apply BIM to design coordination, construction sequencing, cost and program integration, and asset management.

• BIM fundamentals and workflows — principles of BIM, information requirements, Level of Information Need, and model authoring and exchange.
• Digital construction and virtual design — 3D/4D/5D modelling, clash detection, sequencing and construction simulation.
• Interoperability and data standards — open data standards, IFC, COBie, and workflows aligned with ISO 19650 information management guidance.
• Parametric and computational design — use of scripts and visual programming (for example Dynamo) and computational methods to automate modelling tasks and data extraction.
• BIM for asset and facilities management — handover processes, as-built information, GIS integration and lifecycle data management for operations and maintenance.
• Project delivery and contract issues — contractual frameworks for BIM, roles and responsibilities, and risk allocation in collaborative digital delivery.
• Programming and data analytics for BIM — basics of data management, APIs, and using scripting or programming to manipulate model data for reporting and decision support.
• Capstone or research project — a substantive industry-linked or research project that demonstrates application of BIM to a real-world delivery, procurement or asset challenge.

Structure and study mode

The programme is delivered fully online with a mix of recorded lectures, live seminars, practical software workshops and a major project. It can be taken full-time or part-time to accommodate working professionals, and assessments typically include project assignments, case studies and the capstone.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in a related built-environment discipline such as architecture, civil or structural engineering, construction management, surveying, or a cognate field. Applicants with substantial relevant professional experience in construction, design or asset management may also be considered. Typical supporting documentation includes academic transcripts and a CV; referees or a portfolio may be requested for some applicants.

As this is an English-language programme, demonstrated proficiency in English is required for applicants whose prior tertiary instruction was not in English. The University’s standard English language requirements apply.

Career prospects

Graduates develop skills that are in demand across the construction and infrastructure sectors. Common career paths include:

• BIM Coordinator or BIM Manager — leading model coordination, standards and workflows on projects.
• Digital Construction Manager — integrating digital methods into site processes and sequence planning.
• Design Technologist / Computational Designer — using parametric tools and automation in design teams.
• Asset Information Manager or Facilities Information Specialist — managing information for operation and maintenance of built assets.
• Consultant or Specialist — advising organisations on BIM implementation, interoperability and data governance.
• Project or Construction Manager — applying BIM for improved scheduling, costing and risk management.

Why study at University of Western Australia

The University of Western Australia offers a recognised engineering and built-environment teaching and research environment with strong links to industry in Western Australia and beyond. The online Master of Building Information Modelling draws on UWA’s academic expertise and collaborations with practitioners to deliver practice-led content and industry-relevant projects. Online delivery provides flexibility for professionals while maintaining access to experienced academic staff, applied projects and contemporary BIM software practices. Graduates leave prepared to implement BIM processes in multidisciplinary teams and to support digital transformation across project delivery and asset management contexts.