MSc Design and Management of Sustainable Built Environments

Build or progress your career in sustainable building design and management with our MSc Design and Management of Sustainable Built Environments degree.

This master’s programme is suitable for people from a range of different backgrounds who want to move into the field. It's also ideal for professionals working in the built environment sector who wish to develop their understanding of interdisciplinary design and leadership skills.

Why study MSc Design and Management of Sustainable Built Environments at the University of Reading?

Energy underpins our current standard of living and economic development. The environmental impact of energy use and the transition to a lower carbon economy presents significant challenges. Optimum building energy systems are critical to reducing energy consumption. Through this master’s course you will learn how to assess the environmental impact of buildings. You'll also understand how an integrated approach to design, development and management of buildings is critical to a sustainable, resilient built environment.

You’ll explore the fundamental subjects related to environmental design, operation, and management, and learn about the latest theories and research in the field. You will also broaden your knowledge in:

• environmental engineering
• building design
• energy efficiency
• management
• the application of digital technology
• indoor environmental quality and wellbeing.

You’ll acquire key practical skills of analysis and simulation in technical issues in environmental design, engineering and management. You’ll also gain transferable skills through analytical and parametric modelling, using industry applied software tools to address complex issues of real-life events, adaptation and climate change effects.

Accreditation

Our MSc Design and Management of Sustainable Built Environments degree is accredited by the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) and the Energy Institute. Successful completion of this programme satisfies the academic requirements for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

Choose the University of Reading

The School of Construction Management and Engineering has a wide-ranging and diverse research agenda that seeks to understand the built environment across the scales, from buildings to neighbourhoods and cities, in a way that addresses societal aspirations relating to the built environment.

Lecturers are involved in research and scholarship, all of which feeds into the teaching you will receive. We also have strong links with industry and we will help you to build your network of contacts during your studies.

• The University of Reading is one of the UK’s top-ranking institutions for Building. We’re ranked 3rd for Building in the Complete University Guide 2025 and 5th in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025.
• The University of Reading is ranked in the top 100 in the world for Architecture/Built Environment (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2024). 
• 96% of our master’s students said they are satisfied with the overall quality of their course (Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES) 2024, responders from our School of Construction Management and Engineering). 
• Overall, 92% of graduates from Construction Management and Engineering are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation; of those in full-time employment, 93% are in graduate-level roles (based on our analysis of HESA data © HESA 2024, Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021/22; includes postgraduate (taught) Construction Management and Engineering responders).
• 100% of our research in Architecture, Built Environment and Planning is of international standing (REF 2021, combining 4*, 3* and 2* submissions – Architecture, Built Environment and Planning). 100% of our research impact has been classed 'outstanding’ or ‘very considerable’ (REF 2021, combining 4* and 3* submissions – Architecture, Built Environment and Planning). 
• We are ranked 6th in the UK for research power in Architecture, Built Environment and Planning. (Times Higher Education, Institutions Ranked by Subject, based on its analysis of the latest REF 2021).

Flexible study options 

Our MSc Design and Management of Sustainable Built Environments degree is offered as a one-year full-time programme, and as a flexible modular programme that can be taken over two years from September, or over three years from February. It is delivered through intensive residential weeks at our Whiteknights campus in Reading and supported by a professional online learning environment.

Join our global community

Become part of a vibrant, inclusive community comprising students, academics, and alumni. Forge connections with industry practitioners to shape and advance your career.

Research-led education

Benefit from research-led teaching that integrates the latest advancements relevant to the built environment sector into your learning experience.

Interactive learning experience

Engage in intensive on-campus study sessions alongside independent online learning. Collaborate with peers of varied backgrounds and experiences.

Personalised support

Benefit from strong staff-student relationships. Our dedicated academics understand your individual aspirations and needs, offering tutorials and one-to-one guidance throughout your journey.

Industry engagement

Immerse yourself in industry events, site visits, and guest lectures. Network with professionals through Continuing Professional Development (CPD) events and the Reading University Construction Society (RUCS).

Find out more about Reading University Construction Society

Well-equipped facilities

Our facilities include a resource room and a dedicated computer lounge for students. It's equipped with an array of digital technology and software, including building information modelling (BIM), 3D laser scanning, building energy simulations and urban microclimate simulations.

You will have access to our immersive virtual reality systems. There is also laboratory space and experimental equipment to support student research projects.

Prime location

We're located in the South East of England, just 23 minutes from London by fast train, with excellent transport connections to airports and transport hubs. Our proximity to London means you have easy access to a huge, global construction market. You are surrounded by multinational employers and fantastic examples of construction, architecture and infrastructure.

Focused learning

Explore two-week modules featuring inspiring guest lectures. Develop collaborative, leadership, and adaptive skills crucial for the evolving industry landscape.

Find out more about how you’ll study

Interdisciplinary approach

Benefit from being part of the School of the Built Environment, which draws together expertise from a range of disciplines, including architecture, organisation and management, design, sustainability, surveying, construction, procurement, sociology, economics, energy and engineering.

The School also has close links with the department of Real Estate and Planning in the triple-accredited Henley Business School. This interdisciplinary approach reflects collaborative ways of working in the industry.