MSc Facade Engineering

Entry year
2025/26
Course code
K90D1
Application
University
Level
Postgraduate
School
School of Architecture and Environment
Campus
Frenchay
Duration
12 months full-time; 24 months part-time, starts September
Delivery
Full-time; part-time
Programme leader
Mr Owen Gray; Mr Simon Ho

This course is open for applications

Introduction

Explore the complexities of the building envelope and push the boundaries of design with this unique award, the only UK course to specialise in façade engineering. This industry-led masters works closely with the Centre for Window and Cladding Technology (CWCT) to bridge the skills gap in the UK.

Façade engineering is a discipline in its own right. Most large-scale commercial, industrial, educational and even residential buildings are now constructed using a frame and an envelope and many engineering firms have their own façade engineering departments. Our graduates are highly sought-after.

This is a unique course, working closely with CWCT and designed specifically for the industry - overcoming a severe skills shortage and making it easier for companies to find the staff they need.

You will learn why façades are one of the most complex, technically challenging and trans-disciplinary parts of a building, how to design and develop façades that perform technically and develop an architectural expression.

Applying theory to practice, you'll cover key topics including façade materials and components, thermal performance and analysis, weathertightness, fire performance, structural analysis and procurement.

Structure

Content

You will complete the following compulsory modules:

  • Introduction to Facades Systems
  • Facade Materials and Components
  • Glass and Glazing
  • Structural Integrity
  • Weathertightness
  • Procurement
  • Thermal Performance
  • Advanced Facades
  • Dissertation.

Please note this structure is for the full-time course delivery only. For part-time delivery the same modules will be studied. However, the structure will differ.

The University continually enhances our offer by responding to feedback from our students and other stakeholders, ensuring the curriculum is kept up to date and our graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need for the real world. This may result in changes to the course. If changes to your course are approved, we will inform you.

Learning and Teaching

You will be taught by professionals in the field and applying your knowledge to the real world. And you'll work in groups with your fellow students as well as independently, while using the online resources available to complete project work and a number of written assignments. Our programme team will give you all the support and help you need.

For more details, see our full glossary of learning and teaching terms.

Study time

You will attend eight formal 'contact blocks' throughout the year (each one, five days long). Between blocks you will be expected to reinforce your understanding and complete coursework.

Assessment

You will be asked to complete a number of written assessments, coursework and presentations. Your knowledge will also be tested through real-life scenarios and projects, focusing on the various aspects of façade engineering (including thermal performance, structural integrity, façade construction and weathertightness).

For more details see our full glossary of assessment terms.

Features

Study facilities

The Department of Architecture and the Built Environment has excellent IT facilities and support staff in CAD, IES and BIM, as well as Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and computer graphics. It houses an open learning area where staff are on hand to loan out the latest equipment, including interactive whiteboard, scanners, digital cameras, and other equipment.

Find out more about the facilities and resources UWE Bristol has to offer.

Take a personalised virtual tour of the Construction, Property and Surveying facilities and experience what a typical day could look like here for you.

Life

Postgraduate support

Our support includes access to fantastic facilities, study tools and career consultants, plus practical help to access everything from funding to childcare.

Bristol

A stunning city for student living with all the qualities to make you want to stay.

Sports, societies and activities

There is more to your experience here than study. Choose to make the most of it and try new things.

Health and Wellbeing

We provide support in the way you need it.

Campus and facilities

Discover our campuses and the wealth of facilities provided for our students.

Careers

Careers / Further study

This course offers so much potential for architects, engineers, project managers, and construction professionals. Façade engineering expertise is increasingly sought-after in industry, academia, training and consultancy, and this course can lead to a variety of career options. We're creating the next generation of façade engineers ready to work with technical professionals on project teams in façade design, manufacture or installation.

Award-winning careers service

Our award-winning careers service helps you develop your graduate employment potential through career coaching, a vacancy service for internships, placements, graduate jobs, global opportunities, volunteering and community activity plus support for entrepreneurs and access to employer events.  

Fees

Supplementary fee information

For part-time students the total fee each year depends on the total credits taken each year and are payable in full or through instalments each year. The module fee is a pro-rata of the full-time fee and 180 credits are required for full Masters.

For information about funding for postgraduate courses see our funding pages.

Find out whether you may be able to apply for a scholarship.

Entry

Entry requirements

We normally require one of the following:

  • A honours degree of 2:1 or above in an engineering, built environment or architecture related subject.
  • A honours degree of 2:2 in an engineering, built environment or architecture related subject plus a minimum of two years in professional practice or a related industry.
  • A first degree in an engineering, built environment or architecture related subject from an overseas institution that can be demonstrated to be equivalent to the above.
  • Any other non-standard route will need to be assessed on an individual basis but will require a minimum of five years in an appropriate/related industry.

Applicants may be invited for interview on the basis of a formal application.

English language support

If you meet the academic requirements but require additional support to take your language skills to the required level, you may be able to attend one of our pre-sessional English courses. Students who successfully complete the pre-sessional course can progress onto their chosen degree course without retaking an IELTS or equivalent.

Read more about our Pre-Sessional English Programme.

English Language Requirement

International and EU applicants are required to have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 with 5.5 in each component (or approved equivalent*).

*The University accepts a large number of UK and international qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades you will need in our English Language section.

How to apply

Read more about international applications and key international deadline dates.

For further information

Apply now Apply Book an open day Open day Order a prospectus Prospectus

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