Why study construction at postgraduate level?
A postgraduate course in a construction-related subject can help you develop advanced knowledge in specific areas of the discipline. However, further study will not necessarily give you the edge over other graduates, especially in lieu of onsite experience.
Employers respect the specialist knowledge and drive that postgraduates can bring to the site, but in a competitive job market real-world experience will always carry considerable weight. If you can get these while you study then you ought to be in a good position to land a job.
If you are a non-cognate and want to change direction, you should consider a conversion course. Conversion courses usually last about a year (full time) and prepare you for a career in construction management.
Questions to think about if you're considering a postgraduate course in construction
- What specialist knowledge could a postgraduate course offer you? Intelligent buildings and sustainable technology, for example, are two hot topics within the industry around which institutions are developing courses.
- Are you planning to develop existing skills, such as project or construction management?
- Which study mode (full or part-time) is best for you?
- Could you study on the job? Some construction employers will support their graduates through postgraduate study while they work if they think that it will benefit their job. For this route you might also need to work towards chartered status at the same time - but the hours and hard graft you put in will see you become a very highly qualified professional.
- What jobs have other construction postgraduates gone on to do? Ask universities about this, as well as their links with employers.
- What careers-related support will you get as a postgraduate student?
Useful links
- CIOB accredited postgraduate course list
- Building course finder
- Read the digital edition of TARGETjobs Construction, QS & Civil Engineering 2012
Case studies
Postgraduate profile: MBA construction and real estate
Postgraduate profile: MSc sustainable electrical engineering
Postgraduate profile: Postgraduate conversion course
Professional construction bodies
Within the world of construction, there are professional bodies representing individuals across a range of disciplines. The main institute for all areas is the Chartered Institute of Building, which provides funding, awards and accreditations.
Chartered Institute of Building
Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers
Conversion courses
Convert to a construction career with a postgraduate course
