Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This programme develops an integrated understanding of the design, delivery and governance of infrastructure systems with an emphasis on sustainability, resilience and social outcomes. Teaching blends lectures, seminars, practical workshops and a major independent research project (dissertation).

• Core topics: sustainable infrastructure planning, project and asset management, infrastructure finance and procurement, life‑cycle assessment and circular economy principles.
• Technical modules: urban water systems, low‑carbon energy systems, transport infrastructure and modelling, geospatial analysis for infrastructure (GIS) and engineering applications.
• Policy and governance: regulatory frameworks, risk and resilience, stakeholder engagement and inclusive development, international development and infrastructure policy.
• Methods: research methods and quantitative techniques, environmental and social impact assessment, data analysis for infrastructure decision‑making.
• Dissertation: an independent piece of research or applied project that allows you to investigate a specialist topic under academic supervision or to work with an external partner on a real‑world problem.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an appropriate honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject such as civil or environmental engineering, planning, geography, construction management, environmental science or a closely related discipline. Candidates with substantial professional experience in infrastructure, construction, utilities or development practice but without a traditional academic background will also be considered on a case‑by‑case basis.

• Typical academic standard: a second‑class honours degree (2:2) or above, or an international equivalent.
• Relevant work experience is advantageous for mature applicants and those from vocational backgrounds.
• English language: non‑native speakers will need to demonstrate competence through an accepted test (for example IELTS) at the level normally required for postgraduate study; specific minima should be checked with admissions.
• Applicants may be asked to provide a personal statement explaining their motivation, and professional references or a CV where relevant.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a broad range of roles across public, private and third‑sector organisations concerned with the planning, delivery and management of infrastructure. The programme prepares you to work on projects that balance technical performance with environmental and social sustainability.

• Typical roles: infrastructure planner, sustainability or resilience consultant, project or programme manager, asset manager, policy analyst, environmental impact assessor and transport or water systems specialist.
• Employers: local and national government bodies, consultancies, engineering and construction firms, utilities and energy companies, international development agencies, NGOs and research organisations.
• Further study: graduates may progress to research degrees (MPhil/PhD) or professional training and chartership routes in engineering, planning and related fields.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers an applied, interdisciplinary approach that connects theory with industry practice. The university has strong links with regional and international partners in the built environment, access to research centres working on sustainability and resilient cities, and modules that emphasise practical skills such as GIS, project appraisal and stakeholder engagement.

• Location benefits: proximity to Oxford and strong transport links provide access to a wide professional network and visiting practitioners from government, consultancies and development agencies.
• Learning approach: small‑group teaching, live consultancy briefs, fieldwork and opportunities to collaborate on multidisciplinary projects enhance employability and practical competence.
• Support and facilities: dedicated academic supervision for the dissertation, computing and laboratory facilities, and careers support geared to the built environment and infrastructure sectors.