University of Nottingham

What you'll study

The programme combines taught modules with an independent research or design project. Core areas include building physics and fabric performance, whole‑building energy modelling, low‑carbon HVAC and renewable energy integration, sustainable construction materials and detailing, and assessment methods for energy, carbon and indoor environmental quality.

• Building physics and heat transfer in buildings
• Building performance simulation and energy modelling (dynamic simulation tools and workflows)
• Low‑carbon HVAC systems, controls and ventilation strategies
• Retrofit strategies for existing buildings and embodied carbon assessment
• Sustainable materials, detailing and moisture risk management
• BIM, monitoring and data‑driven building optimisation
• Measurement, verification and post‑occupancy evaluation techniques
• Research methods and a substantial individual MSc project (laboratory, field or simulation‑based)

Teaching typically uses a mix of lectures, practical laboratory and computer‑lab sessions, case studies, group design work and site visits. The independent project enables students to apply technical skills to a real‑world technical problem, often in collaboration with industrial partners or research groups.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an upper second‑class (2:1) honours degree, or its international equivalent, in a relevant discipline such as civil engineering, mechanical/building services engineering, architecture, construction, environmental engineering or a closely related subject. Candidates with a lower second (2:2) and significant, relevant professional experience may be considered.

English language proficiency is required for applicants whose first language is not English; typical evidence accepted includes recognised qualifications or tests. Relevant professional experience, portfolios of design work or references supporting technical ability are advantageous.

Career prospects

Graduates enter technical and advisory roles across the built environment and energy sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Building services or design engineer specialising in low‑carbon systems
• Energy modeller, performance analyst or simulation specialist
• Sustainability or retrofit consultant working on residential and commercial stock
• Project engineer or coordinator for net‑zero refurbishment and new low‑energy buildings
• Facilities and building performance manager using monitoring and data to optimise operation
• Research roles or further study (PhD) in building technology, energy systems or materials research

The programme’s technical focus and industry links also prepare graduates for roles in policy, standards development and product/manufacturer technical teams concerned with sustainable construction.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham offers a multidisciplinary environment that brings together expertise in building physics, energy systems and materials science. Students benefit from practical teaching in specialist laboratories and computing suites, access to building performance and monitoring equipment, and small‑group supervision for project work.

The programme emphasises close engagement with industry through guest lectures, live projects and research collaborations, helping students develop practical skills that employers seek. Nottingham’s campus and regional connections provide opportunities for site visits, placement collaborations and engagement with local retrofit and energy‑efficiency initiatives.

Studying here gives you both the technical rigour and applied experience needed to design, analyse and implement sustainable building solutions across new build and retrofit markets.