Engineering Project Management MSc (Eng)

Course overview

Our MSc in Engineering Project Management will help you develop a complete and in-depth understanding of project management tools and techniques. You'll gain the specialist knowledge you need to contribute to and manage projects in any industry and build an extensive set of professional skills sought after in the project management profession.

Engineering spans many industries across different sectors, and the career opportunities are vast. However, the success of any engineering project does not only rely on technical skills: it needs project management specialists with competency in areas like strategy and finance to ensure projects meet the brief’s requirements.

Studying this programme will build your knowledge of the entire project management process, from inception and feasibility, engineering, procurement and implementation through to commissioning and operation.

You'll study in the School of Civil Engineering, which ranks highly globally and develops internationally excellent research — much of which shapes the course.

This means you'll be learning industry-relevant knowledge and developing a professional skill set sought after by almost every industry worldwide, opening the door to many career paths in areas like engineering, construction, energy, transport, education and environment.

During your studies, you'll also have access to specialist facilities that will enhance your learning and be taught by experts who have industry experience in a range of relevant fields.

Why study at Leeds:

• Our globally-renowned research conducted right here in our School feeds directly into the course, shaping your learning with the latest thinking in engineering and sustainability.
• Advance your knowledge and skills in critical areas sought after in industry such as project management tools and techniques, project sustainability, strategy and management and innovation and digital technology.
• Conduct your own individual research project as part of your course and gain industry experience in managing a project, whilst building professional skills in research, decision making and planning.
• Access specialist facilities including high-performance computing and specialist software used in different areas of civil engineering, such as structural modelling and Building Information Modelling (BIM) packages.
• Experience excellent practical and theoretical teaching delivered by a programme team with a wealth of expertise and industrial experience across many relevant areas such as client-led business and project processes, business strategy and value management.
• Enhance your career prospects and join our successful alumni who have pursued careers in related positions, working for companies like Mitsubishi Power Europe Ltd., Royal HaskoningDHV and AmcoGiffen.
• Master the most up-to-date practices and techniques recognised in industry on a course that has been directly informed and advised by the Industrial Advisory Committee and the Institution of Civil Engineers.

Join our online taster course

Learn about the key phases of a project life cycle and develop knowledge in project financing and governance in our free taster course. 

Course details

Throughout the programme, you’ll gain an understanding of the different aspects of project management. The course covers common project management tools and techniques, then puts this into a project life-cycle context and considers when and how to use them. Risk management and its role during the project lifecycle is also explored. A feature at Leeds is Whole Life Asset Management which examines the “whole life management” of infrastructure, with additional focus on operations, maintenance, renewal and decommissioning. These taught subjects are assessed during two teaching semesters.

Project work

Over the summer months, you’ll work with your supervisor to complete your independent research project which is one of the most satisfying elements of this course. It’s a chance for you to demonstrate the knowledge and skills you’ve gained, focusing on a real-world problem that explores your specific interests and/or relates to your career ambitions. The research project is assessed at the end of the summer term.

Most projects are industry based to ensure the topic of research is relevant to the field whilst also addressing current engineering problems.

Example projects for Engineering Project Management MSc students have included:

• Uncertainty management
• Relational contracting and alliances
• Management of multiple projects
• Financing of public private partnerships
• Integration of risk and value management
• Iconic and complex projects

Course structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

Modules

Compulsory modules

Principles of sustainable project management – 15 credits

Explore the key project management concepts, their evaluation and the application to engineering projects. You’ll develop an understanding of the project life cycle management and explore the relationship between project management and sustainable goals. You’ll also build an understanding of the ethical dimensions of planning and delivering projects.

Project management tools and techniques – 15 credits

Learn the common tools used in project management. Topics covered include planning and control, quality management, scope management, schedule management, cost management, resource management and change management.

Risk and resilience – 15 credits

You’ll focus on risk management and resilience in projects, being introduced to a structured risk management process, as well as the tools and techniques used to identify, evaluate, transfer and monitor risks. Most of the tool and techniques can be employed in a wide range of fields. This module focuses mostly on risk management in engineering and construction projects.

People management – 15 credits

Build a theoretical and practical understanding of key concepts relating to people working on and associated with projects. This includes an understanding of organisational behaviour in the context of projects and programmes and stakeholder management/engagement. You'll cover topics such as leadership, motivation, conflict, negotiation and ethics.

Project strategy and organisation – 15 credits

Develop an understanding of the organisational context of projects. You’ll examine the different organisation structures in relation to projects. You'll develop and assess governance arrangements within various organisational structural contexts, whilst being introduced to various project management methodologies and strategies. Funding and procurement strategies in project delivery are also introduced.

Innovation and digital technologies – 15 credits

This module explores the role of innovation within project management. It considers value and knowledge management in the context of projects, alongside developing an understanding of the role data plays in the delivery of projects. It also explores the role of digital technology in the future of projects.

Systems integration – 15 credits

Multiple systems are present within projects. Throughout this module, you’ll focus on the integration of these systems within the project environment. You’ll examine financial planning, contract administration, procurement processes, assurance systems and integration management. You’ll also consider programme, portfolio and project integration.

Applied project management – 15 credits

This module is an active simulation of a project. It brings together all the learning from the other modules in a simulated project environment and explores the impact of decision-making on the variables and outcomes in the simulated project environment.

Dissertation – 60 credits

Put theory into practice by conducting your own individual research project. To support your project, we’ll teach you theories and practices you’ll need to conduct your project efficiently. You’ll examine how to define research problems and gaps in understanding. Alongside, you’ll learn how to critically review relevant literature to your given problem and explore the research methods and instruments you’ll need to collect and analyse data effectively.

Learning and teaching

You’ll be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, case-based problems, small group work and project meetings. These activities are complemented by e-learning. Our research feeds directly into teaching, and you’ll have regular contact with staff who are at the forefront of their disciplines.

Throughout your studies, you’ll also benefit from a structured support system, with a personal tutor who will offer help and advice about your approach to studying and how to become adept at independent learning.

Independent study is also important to the programme, as you develop your problem-solving and research skills, as well as your subject knowledge.

Active research environments

The Leeds Centre for Projects (LCP) is a globally leading centre of excellence advancing the knowledge in project management research and education and creating impact through engagement with industry, government and third sector organisations. MSc students will benefit from this active and innovative research environment where all staff share a common passion to improve our understanding and capability in project management with the aim to advance theory and practice.

Specialist facilities

During your studies, you’ll have access to research-grade equipment and specialist facilities that will enhance your learning, including high-performance computing and specialist software used in different areas of civil engineering, such as structural modelling and Building Information Modelling (BIM) packages.

Programme team

On this course you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

You’ll be assessed using a range of techniques including case studies, technical reports, presentations, in-class tests, assignments and exams.

Applying

Entry requirements

A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) in civil engineering or a related construction management/engineering management subject.

Applications from professionally qualified and experienced candidates will also be considered. A bachelor degree with a 2:2 (hons) will be considered for candidates with at least three years’ relevant project management experience.

Due to the competitive nature of this course, the Admissions team may take a variety of factors into account when assessing applications.

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information, please contact the Admissions Team.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English

International students who do not meet the English language requirements for this programme may be able to study our postgraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

This pre-sessional course is designed with a progression route to your degree programme and you’ll learn academic English in the context of your subject area. To find out more, read Language for Civil Engineering (6 weeks) and Language for Science: Civil Engineering  (10 weeks).

We also offer online pre-sessionals alongside our on-campus pre-sessionals. Find out more about our six week online pre-sessional.

You can also study pre-sessionals for longer periods – read about our postgraduate pre-sessional English courses.

How to apply

Application deadlines

We operate a staged admissions process for this course with selection deadlines throughout the year.

Please read our How to Apply page for full details, including application deadlines and what to include with your application.

Click below to access the University’s online application system and find out more about the application process.

If you're still unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy 2024

This course is taught by

School of Civil Engineering

Contact us

Postgraduate Admissions Team

Email: pgcivil@leeds.ac.uk
Telephone:

Fees

UK: £13,750 (Total)

International: £31,000 (Total)

Read more about paying fees and charges.

For fees information for international taught postgraduate students, read Masters fees.

Additional cost information

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There may be help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government.  Find out more at Masters funding overview.

Career opportunities

Careers support

At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one. We have a wide range of careers resources — including our award-winning Employability team who are in contact with many employers around the country and advertise placements and jobs. They are also on hand to provide guidance and support, ensuring you are prepared to take your next steps after graduation and get you where you want to be.

• Employability events — we run a full range of events including careers fairs in specialist areas and across broader industries — all with employers who are actively recruiting for roles.
• MyCareer system — on your course and after you graduate, you’ll have access to a dedicated careers portal where you can book appointments with our team, get information on careers and see job vacancies and upcoming events.
• Qualified careers consultants — gain guidance, support and information to help you choose a career path. You’ll have access to 1-2-1 meetings and events to learn how to find employers to target, write your CV and cover letter, research before interviews and brush up on your interview skills.
• Opportunities at Leeds — there are plenty of exciting opportunities offered by our Leeds University Union, including volunteering and over 300 clubs and societies to get involved in.

Find out more about career support.

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