University of Nottingham

What you'll study

This MSc combines building physics, energy and environmental simulation, materials performance and systems design to support low-carbon building solutions. Teaching covers heat, moisture and air flow in buildings; fabric-first approaches and retrofit strategies; building services and low-energy HVAC; renewables integration; and whole-life carbon and life cycle assessment. You will learn to use industry-standard modelling and analysis tools for dynamic thermal simulation, daylighting, and energy performance assessment, and gain practical experience with on-site monitoring, sensors and laboratory testing.

The programme typically includes a mix of core modules and option choices, together with a substantial individual dissertation or design project. Core topics commonly include:

• Building Physics and Thermal Performance
• Energy Systems and Low-Carbon Heating/Cooling
• Simulation Methods for Building Performance (dynamic thermal modelling, energy and daylighting tools)
• Fabric and Materials for Sustainability (durability, moisture, hygrothermal behaviour)
• Retrofit Strategies and Whole-Building Assessment

Optional modules allow you to focus on specialist areas such as façade design and performance, embodied carbon and life-cycle assessment, building information modelling (BIM) for sustainability, and advanced control strategies. The dissertation/project gives you the opportunity to undertake experimental work, field monitoring or detailed computational studies under academic supervision, often with industry partners.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a good undergraduate degree (equivalent to a UK second-class honours, 2:1) in a relevant subject such as civil or building engineering, mechanical engineering, architecture, building services, environmental science or a closely related discipline. Applicants with a lower second-class degree plus relevant professional experience in the construction or building services sector may also be considered.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test or qualification at a level suitable for postgraduate study. Professional experience in building design, construction or energy assessment is advantageous and can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme are prepared for technical and leadership roles that require both analytical rigour and practical know-how in sustainable building delivery. Typical career paths include:

• Building performance analyst or energy modeller
• Building services or façade engineer
• Sustainability or environmental consultant (commercial buildings and housing)
• Retrofit coordinator or retrofit project manager
• Low-carbon strategy advisor for developers, local authorities or housing associations
• Research and development roles in industry or progression to doctoral study

Alumni work in consultancy firms, major contractors, specialist façade and services companies, local and national government, housing providers and research organisations. The curriculum and project work are designed to make graduates immediately relevant to employers addressing energy efficiency, compliance and net-zero targets in the built environment.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham offers an interdisciplinary environment that brings together engineering, architecture and environmental science expertise to address real-world building performance challenges. You will benefit from hands-on training in laboratories and access to environmental testing and monitoring equipment, together with teaching from researchers active in building physics, energy systems and sustainable materials.

The programme is connected to local and national industry through consultancy partnerships, research projects and placement opportunities, helping students gain practical experience and professional contacts. Studying at Nottingham also provides access to a broad range of postgraduate support services, careers guidance and networks that support transition into roles across the construction, energy and sustainability sectors.