View all Courses
Construction Management
Bachelor of Science (Honours)
Course Details
CAO Code | AU635 |
---|---|
Level | 8 |
Duration | 4 Years |
CAO Points | 332 (2024) |
Method of Delivery | On-campus |
Campus Locations | Galway City – Dublin Road |
Mode of Delivery | Full Time |
Work placement | Yes |
Course Overview
Construction Management is a very rewarding career with lots of action and the satisfaction of seeing real results that transform design drawings and models into real buildings, roads or bridges. The Construction Manager organises the people, materials and equipment needed to get the job done in the most efficient and effective manner. Construction managers are well organised professionals with good communication and people skills to direct and motivate the range of people and organisations involved in construction projects.
The five-month work placement in Year 3 allows the student to experience at first hand, the challenges and opportunities of working in the industry. Our Construction Management graduates are educated and trained to be well-organised professionals who can control, direct, lead and motivate the range of people and organisations involved in construction projects.
Students will be liable for an additional materials fee of €100 per year for certain full time programmes. This fee is not covered by Granting Authorities. Material Fees are not applicable to either Erasmus, Part-Time or Full time Non-EU students.
Course Details
Year 1
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
Year |
Construction Technology 1Construction Technology 1 will introduce the student to the materials, method and technologies involved in the design and construction of residential buildings and the wider context of housing development. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the construction process and recognise the relationship between the different stages of residential construction identifying any problems that may arise. |
10 | Mandatory |
Year |
Building Services 1Building Services 1 introduces the student to the materials, methods and technologies involved in the provision of water services and LPHW space heating services to buildings. Basic electrical theory. safety and installation are also covered. Sustainability content includes Rainwater Harvesting and Solar Hot Water installations. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate understanding of the basic theory of water, wastewater space heating and Electrical services 4. Select the appropriate design solution for water and wastewater services |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Building Economics 1This module will introduce the basics fundamentals of construction both pre and post contract. Learning Outcomes 1. Develop an understanding of the construction process from inception to completion 3. Develop the ability for basic measuring of a building. 4. Summarise the role of the various forms of contract in the building process and their function 5. Develop the ability to build up an estimate and to understand the tender process. |
10 | Mandatory |
Year |
Land Surveying 1This module introduces students to the basic principles of levelling and tape survey. The students learns about the level, how to set it up, reading it accurately, booking the readings, calculating the reduced levels, checking for accuracy. Applications of the level to include setting out a longitudinal section, calculating its reduced levels and plotting the longitudinal section are learned. Also a student has a knowledge of setting out, plotting and interpolation of contours. Students also carry out a basic tape survey. They are also introduced to sight rails and the basic principles of calculating area and volume of different sites and excavations. Learning Outcomes 1. Complete the fieldwork required to survey a small area of ground using tapesurveying techniques. 2. Understand how to calculateareas of regular and irregular shapes and to calculate volumes. 3. Understand and apply the theory of the automatic level. Complete the temporary and permanent adjustment of the level.Complete a line of levels, prepare a longitudinal section, contour an area of ground using the indirect method. 4. Appraise the quality of surveying measurements taken when using the instruments in the field. |
10 | Mandatory |
Year |
Academic and Professional Skills (SC:EN)The aim of this module is to develop academic and professional development skills for student success in higher education and beyond. This module combines online learning activities and small group workshops to focus on areas such as academic writing and integrity, creative thinking, problem-solving, time management, communications, group work, technology, innovation and presentation skills. Learning Outcomes 1. Apply appropriate tools and principles to optimise the learning experience. 2. Develop self-reflection practices for individual and group-work activities. 3. Develop academic writing skills, recognise different information sources and apply the principles of academic integrity. 4. Assess a variety of professional communication practices and digital tools and apply to problem-solving. 5. Consider how the chosen discipline has a responsibility to wider society. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
CAD/BIM 1This module equips students with the skills and competencies to graphically represent basic buildings and building details in 2D and 3D using computer software. It is a practical module which uses software that is extensively used in the construction industry. Learning Outcomes 1. Develop his/her cognitive and practical skills in the areas of BIM authoring tools. 2. Represent graphicallythe development and refinement of problem-solving ideas 3. Communicate ideas and solutions to problems, using acceptable drawing conventions, symbols and standards for presentation 4. Represent ideas and solutions in a clear, unambiguous manner |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Structures for ConstructionTheory of structures and design methods of structural members. Learning Outcomes 1. Select the procedures associated with the calculation of various types of forces applied to structural elements 2. ApplyNewtons second law of motion to calculate force due to mass of material 3. Define the behaviour of forces on structural elements due to applied loads. 4. Develop Eqns of Equilibrium and apply Eqns of Equilibrium to calculate reaction forces at the supports of simply supported beam or truss 5. Discuss the application of bending and shear forces on structural elements and DRAW shear force diagrams and bending moment diagrams for simply supported beams 6. Define the behaviour of forces in the members of statically determinate pin-jointed frames and calculate the forces in the members of statically determinate pin-jointed frames by graphical methods 7. Analyse the relationships between stress, strain and elasticity and calculate stress, strain, elongation and compression of structural members 8. Calculate the properties of sections required to carry out simple structural design |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
MathematicsMathematics for Construction Management, Quantity Surveying and Building Economics and Architectural Technology Year 1. Gain the understanding and skills necessary to measure, monitor and quantify change in economic, energy and ecological systems. Apply measurement, estimation, calculation and comparison to gauge ecosystem health that lead to preferred futures. Learning Outcomes 1. Performcalculations involving fractions, percentages and ratios. Formulate calculations forVAT inclusive and exclusive invoicing. 2. Manipulate units, including squared and cubic units, in the metric system. Determineuse of scientific notation for linear, squared and cubed units. Be prepared to estimate costs andmeasurements . 3. Understand calculations involvingindices, laws of indices and logs. 4. Simplify algebraic expressions, find factors for algebraic expressions. Solve linear andquadratic equations. Solve equations involving surds and indicies. 5. Convert from radiansto degrees and visa versa. 6. Perform calculations for graphing lines, simultaneous equations, quadratic equations and mix of each. Plot and measure points in 2 and 3-D for surveying purposes. 7. Determine solutions forright-angled and other triangles. Find areas of triangles using various methods. Perform calculations using Simpson’s Rule, Trapezoidal Rule and Mid-Ordinate Rule 8. Calculate the surface areas and volumes of regular and irregular solids. Calculate the surface areas and volumes for composite shapes including frustra. 9. Apply the compound interest and depreciation formulae. Perform calculations involving the time value of money. Interpret APR, NPV and IRR calculations. 10. Calculate summary measures for data manually and/or using statistical function on calculator. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Building Science and MaterialsIn this module the student will realise the role science plays in common building problems and be able to apply appropriate scientific principles to solve them. Students perform laboratory experiments based on the application of science to building .This module introduces the student to the full range of materials and material sciences that are in common use on all kinds of construction projects. The practical element will enable the student to competently complete a set of concrete laboratory tests and materials science laboratory tests. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify material properties and products associated with construction and civil engineering projects |
05 | Mandatory |
Year 2
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
Year |
Construction Technology 2Construction Technology 2 will introduce the student to the materials, method and technologies in the construction of commercial and industrial buildings. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the construction process and recognise the relationship between the different stages of commercial and industrial construction identifying any problems that may arise. 3. Discuss and compare the advantages and disadvantages of concrete, timber, steel frame and hybrid non-residential construction methods and materials. 5. Research Modern Method of Construction and Digital Construction processes used on construction projects |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Building Services 2Building Services 2 follow Building services 1 and firstly treats space heating systems in greater detail. Other contents are Mechanical Ventilation, Refrigeration, Psychrometry, Air Conditioning and an introduction to 3-phase electricity. Energy efficient technologies are introduced. Learning Outcomes 1. Understand the concepts fundamental to the space heating ventilation and air conditioning of buildings, and to three phase electricity. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Building Economics 2This Module will focus on the Main Contractor, in regard to all the various aspects that contribute to both cost control and profitability of projects from the initial tender bid to handover. Preparation of the Tender bid. Monitoring and control of site costs. The role of domestic and nominated subcontractors, the importance of cash flow and the approach to the preparation of Interim and Final Accounts. Site record keeping and the various remedies available under the building contract in the event of a dispute occurring. Introduction and Overview of both the R.I.A.I. and PWC forms of contract. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain how a Main Contractor would prepare a Tender bid (from receipt of the tender documents) 2. Distinguish between the pre- and post-contract phases of a typical construction project and all associated Certification (R.I.A.I. form of contract and relevant clauses) 3. Summarise a systematic and thorough approach to monitoring and controlling site costs. 4. Build up unit rates for labour and various completed items of work 5. Build up unit rates for plant 6. Summarise the role and responsibilities associated with nominated subcontractors and suppliers (R.I.A.I. form of contract and relevant clauses) 7. Explainhow to record Variations on a typical construction project and appreciate how they may contribute to programme over run (R.I.A.I. form of contract and relevant clauses) 8. Describethe preparation and submission of both interim and final accounts (R.I.A.I. form of contract and relevant clauses) 9. Compare the various legal remedies available under a contract in the event of disputes arising between the parties (R.I.A.I. form of contract and relevant clauses) |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Land Surveying 2In this surveying module, the student will develop competency in surveying and setting out for building projects using the appropriate equipment. Particular emphasis is placed on demonstrating proficiency with the automatic level and total station. Work with the automatic level covers all aspects from using the instrument to book readings, reducing those readings, determining the accuracy of the readings and applying the readings to an engineering problem (e.g. calculating finished floor levels, preparing longitudinal sections, calculating cut and fill requirements). The use of the total station covers all aspects from setting up the instrument, taking readings, drawing as built surveys and setting out buildings. Students are also introduced to the use of the GPS. Learning Outcomes 1. Complete a detailed survey using a Total Station or similar |
10 | Mandatory |
Year |
Site Management 1This module provides a broad overview and understanding of the processes and procedures used to manage the construction site. The module focuses on the key site management areas of planning, programming, procurement, waste management, health & safety management, Sub contractor management, plant management and quality control. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the broad range of planning and programming tools used on a construction site and select appropriate tools to suit situational requirements and apply the tools to work specific problems. |
10 | Mandatory |
Year |
CAD/BIM 2 ConstructionThis module builds on the skills and competence acquired in year one to represent buildings and building details graphically using 2D and 3D Building Information Modelling software. Learning Outcomes 1. Explore CAD applications associated with the production of drawings for construction. 5. Read and understand what is represented graphically and take what information is needed from the drawing. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Structural Design and DetailingThis module deals with the design and detailing of multi-storey building structures both in structural steel and reinforced concrete. Steel angles, both in tension and compression, steel columns and steel beams are designed in semester 1 in accordance with the guidelines recommended in Eurocode 3. Semester 2 deals with the design of reinforced concrete beams and slabs in accordance with the guidelines recommended in Eurocode 2. Reinforced concrete detailing of both slabs and beams is covered, in addition to the preparation of bar schedules using industry standard structural drawings. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the procedures associated with the analysis of structural elements so that design may proceed. 4. Produce, with the aid of Eurocode 3, the necessary design calculations for steel struts and ties in a statically determinate pin jointed frame and for steel columns and steel beams. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Integrated ProjectThe object of the integrated project module is to integrate the range of first year and second year learning by simulating a real life building project utilising the range of knowledge skills and competencies gained. The modules involved students designing a virtual project and applying skills from their other modules to carry out construction management tasks on the project. For example, CAD/BIM design, programming, waste management planning, health and safety planning etc. Learning Outcomes 1. Plan, organise, and manage the collection of information from a variety of sources. 5. Develop the multi-task skills associated with working on a real life building project. 7. Apply knowledge of planning and managing for complex building projects |
10 | Mandatory |
Year |
Environmental Management for ConstructionHaving completed this module the learner should understand the main environmental challenges facing society and know his/her role and responsibilities as a practitioner in the built environment area. It gives the learner an opportunity to develop environmental management skills relating to the construction process and to buildings for human occupation. The learner should develop a degree of consciousness that due regard for the natural environment is taken into account in all of his or her professional and personal actions. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the concepts of environmental sustainability, biodiversity and sustainable development. 2. Identify the causes and effects of the main and pressing global, trans-boundary and local environmental problems and identify and discuss the main established and potential solutions to such problems 4. Discuss the main international agreements and national environmental protection legislation. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year 3
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Building Performance and TechnologyThis module will introduce the student to the materials, methods and technologies involved in the identification of defects, refurbishment and maintenance of existing buildings. In addition, the module applies the use of various Building Regulations (Part M, B and L) to provide a practical element to further students' knowledge of the Building Performance requirements. The teaching and learning strategy are focused on problem solving and scenario-based approach with class contact divided up between lectures, problem solving activities and undertaking real world scenarios (to be discussed and attempted in class), group work and individual exercises. The assessment strategies complement the teaching and learning strategy by focusing on practical assignments related to actual case studies. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate a clear understanding of the refurbishment process including legislative requirements, buildability, cost and the associated environmental impacts. 3. Evaluate the health and safety issues associated with refurbishment and retrofit works to prepare appropriate risk assessments. 5. Review and recommend building energy upgrade strategies to improve the energy performance of existing buildings. 6. Review and recommend building upgrade strategies to improve the fire safety of existing buildings. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Building Services 3Building Services 3 firstly covers electric lighting services for buildings and their curtileges. Then Emergency Lighting systems. Cleanrooms. Data and Communication Services. Structured Cabling. Photovoltaic on-site renewable energy. Fire alarm systems, fire safety & fire fighting services. Lifts and transportation services. Safety and Health in the context of Building Services. Finally, Commissioning and Handover of Services Installations. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate understanding of the concepts fundamental to the electric lighting of buildings, and to alternative approaches to energy supply and utilisation. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Building Economics 3This module covers various economic aspects of the built environment (from the Client, Main Contractor and society's perspectives): How site, market conditions and design variables can influence building costs. The impact of Sustainability on building projects. The influence of prefabrication, industrial and system building types. (cost savings) Contract provisions in relation to payments and late project completion (dispute resolution/contractual claims). Provisions in both the PWC and R.I.A.I. forms of contract. Payment rules as set out in the Construction Contracts Act. Project Management provisions in public sector projects-the CWMF (Capital Works Management Framework) Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstratehow the following can influence building costs: Design Variables,Site and Market conditions,Sustainability 2. Explain the economic benefits of: Prefabrication,Industrial and System building, 3. Classify the various costs associated with late project completion from a main contractor’s viewpoint and the recovery of these costs through a contractual claim 4. Compare the various clauses under both the PWC and R.I.A.I. forms of contract in relation to Valuations, additional costs and dispute resolution 5. Summarise how the Construction Contracts Act makes provision for prompt payment in the industry 6. Interpret the provisions for project management in the Public Works Contract as outlined underthe CWMF(Capital Works Management Framework) |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Innovation and Enterprise in the Built EnvironmentThis module encourages the entrepreneurial spirit within built environment students and builds their skills and knowledge so that they will be able to innovate and create enterprise in their future careers within the sector. The skills and knowledge gained are equally applicable to their own future businesses or to their role within built environment organisations. Students are required to develop a new idea for the built environment sector and examine its commercial potential using business planning techniques. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the role and function of entrepreneurs in society |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Site Management 2This module builds upon the basic procedures and process knowledge acquired in the site management 1 module and develops the student's understanding of construction management. The students are also assisted in preparing for their work placement in the 2nd semester Learning Outcomes 1. Develop project schedules for construction projects |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Construction Finance and Human Resource ManagementThis course will enable students to gain an insight and comprehension of the construction industry from both a financial and human resource management perspective. Learning Outcomes 1. Interpret financial statements and financial terminology relevant to the construction industry. 2. Analyse and assess the performance of construction companies and understand their financial statements. 3. Comprehend the relevant tax areas applicable to the various business entities and the construction industry. 4. Analyse the importance of HRM to construction organisations and projects. 5. Comprehend and explainthe Human Resource activities and how they affect the construction process. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Industrial PlacementThe period of Industrial placement will form an integral part of the course and will consist of a period of not less than 20 weeks duration at an appropriate workplace. Learning Outcomes 1. Assess the purpose, scope and extent of the construction project(s) where they serve their placement. 4. Evaluate the planning and scheduling procedures used in the workplace. 5. Assess the control of materials, plant and labour resources as practiced in the workplace 6. Describe the methods of financial control used by the company in the workplace. 7. Assess the use of meetings in the management of projects |
30 | Mandatory |
Year 4
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
Year |
Sustainability and the Circular Economy in the Built EnvironmentThis module will introduce the student to methods, strategies and technologies involved in delivering a more resource efficient and sustainable circular built environment. The module places a particular focus on minimising environmental impacts from the construction process by reducing waste, energy use, water use and carbon emissions. The teaching and learning strategy are focused on problem solving and scenario-based approach with class contact divided up between lectures, problem solving activities and undertaking real world scenarios (to be discussed and attempted in class), group work and individual exercises. The assessment strategies complement the teaching and learning strategy by focusing on practical assignments related to actual case studies. Students will also undertake some critical reflections to develop their critical thinking. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate an understanding of the complexities of sustainability issues in the built environment, the associated environmental impacts and the SDGs. 2. Evaluate energy reduction design opportunities and formulate on-site energy management solutions to minimise energy use. 3. Evaluate waste reduction design opportunities and formulate on-site construction and demolition waste management solutions to minimise waste production. 4. Evaluate water reduction design opportunities and formulate on-site water management solutions to minimise waste use. 5. Critically analyse the carbon footprint and environmental impact of selected case studies. 6. Critically evaluate the social and ethical role of the built environment and its stakeholders. 7. Evaluate the implementation of circular economy principles within the built environment. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Construction Law and Industrial RelationsThe aim of this module is for students to examine and evaluate the key legal principles and obligations in relation to the legal environment of the construction sector.The students will also analyse the impact that legal obligations have on the construction management process. Learning Outcomes 1. Apply management methods both legal and procedural , as appropriate , to management within the Construction Sector. 2. Formulate decisions and solutions taking into account the legal implications and best management practices to adhere to the construction management Industry. 3. Analyse the impact that legal obligations have on construction management process 4. Enhance professional competence through increased confidence in verbal and written presentations. 6. Critically evaluate health and safety management procedures on a variety of projects and reflect on personal responsibility for health, safety and wellbeing. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Building Economics 4Evaluate cost estimates. Understand alternative Building Procurement Systems. Understand Public Sector Contracts. Process construction claims. Monitor contract costs and value. Demonstrate an understanding of rate build ups. Learning Outcomes 1. Understand and appreciate the alternative Building Procurement Systems in use together with knowledge of the advantages and short comings of these systems over the traditional System. 5. Prepare Cost Estimates and prepare Dayworks sheets. Demonstrate an understanding of VAT. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Development EvaluationThis module examines the evaluation of residential and commercial property development in order to determine feasibility and commercial viability. It develops the student's commercial awareness of the complex economic, political and social context and the legislative and regulatory framework within which property development occurs. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate a commercial awareness of the complex economic, political and socialcontext within which property development occurs and comprehendthe complex legislative and regulatory framework it operates within. 2. Identify the various land-use markets and comprehendhow they interact with each other. 3. Apply various techniques and principles used in town planningto selected development sites/ re-development opportunities and evaluate their influence in framingdevelopment proposals. 4. Appraisethe various issues and challengesthat may arise in the property development process. 5. Evaluate the feasibility and commercial viability of various property development proposals. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Project ManagementThis module explores the principles of management and the project management process as it relates to construction projects. It also considers a variety of management systems and techniques and their applications for construction companies. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify the characteristics of production project management in the construction industry and assess the potential for efficiencyin production systems. 2. Explain the project management processes and develop suitable process improvement. 7. Detailthe fundamentals and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of management theory, leadership theory, organisational structure, motivation theory and the general dynamics of controlling and planning associated with management. |
10 | Mandatory |
Year |
Financial EvaluationThis module evaluates the different investment appraisal techniques by decision makers. It also assesses how current project financing plays a vital role in the construction industry. The module aims to develop the student's commercial awareness of the importance of finance to the construction industry. Learning Outcomes 1. Analyse, evaluate and appraise proposed projectoptions by economic appraisal techniques. 2. Assess the various sources of finance suitable to the construction sector. 3. Demonstrate a critical awareness and understanding of the principles and practices of cash budgeting in the construction industry. 4. Critical appraise the importance of the construction industry to the economy. 5. Comprehend the importance of variance analysis to sustainable construction projects |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Digital SystemsThis module will introduce the students to digital construction systems, including Building Information Modelling, Health and Safety, Quality and Environmental certifications, polices and procedures. Learning Outcomes 1. Develop a systematic framework for the management of quality, environmental and health & safety issues in construction Project Management. 2. Evaluate the potential of digital systems to manage collaborative work practices and improve construction project performance, by minimising errors andincreasingprofitability. 3. Analyse the pathway to BIM Certification, through the overview and structure of ISO 19650. 4. Critique digital maturity at project-level and across the supply chain, using the information delivery cycle and comparing appointing party functions and capabilities. 5. Applying advanced information technology skills (CDE, 4D BIM scheduling, 5D Costing) 6. Evaluatethe tender process, the Instruction to Tender, Tender Bid Writing and Tender Submissions. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
DissertationThis module leads students through the process of researching and reporting a chosen topic using formal academic methodologies. It will improve students' writing skills and provide them with a structured approach to reporting on technical and management issues. Learning Outcomes 1. Research and write a comprehensive document explaining a complex area of study in a suitable format and communicate this to others in a verbal and written presentation. |
20 | Mandatory |
Download a prospectus
Entry Requirements
Leaving Certificate Entry Requirement | 6 subjects at O6/H7 |
QQI/FET Major Award Required | Any |
Additional QQI/FET/ Requirements | Three distinctions and a pass in 5N1833 or 6N3395 or 5N0556 or 5N18396 or C20139 or C20174 or C20175 or Leaving Certificate Maths at 06/H7 |
Fees
Total Fees EU: €3000
This annual student contribution charge is subject to change by Government. Additional tuition fees may apply. Click on the link below for more information on fees, grants and scholarships.
Total Fees Non-EU: €12000
Subject to approval by ATU Governing Body (February 2025)
Further information on feesProfessional Accreditation
The programme is fully accredited by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). Graduates may join CIOB at the Applicant grade and work towards becoming a Chartered Construction Manager. The programme meets CIOB educational requirements for attaining chartered status. Graduates may typically apply for full chartered membership of CIOB after having gained a minimum of three years relevant industrial experience.
The programme is fully accredited by the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE). Graduates may join CABE at the Graduate grade and work towards becoming a Chartered Building Engineer and/or a Chartered Engineer. Other intermediate non-chartered grades at Technician and Associate levels are also available. The programme meets CABE educational requirement for attaining chartered status. Graduates may typically apply for full chartered membership of CABE after having gained a sufficient level of industrial experience in their specific discipline.
Careers
Graduates are qualified to be employed at management level within contracting and construction project management organisations.
Further Information
Contact Information
Department of Building & Civil Engineering
Michelle Fahey
Programme Chair
T: +353 917 42407
E: michelle.fahey@atu.ie
Building & Civil Engineering