Who is this course for? 

The course aims to equip students with key knowledge and skills needed to develop sustainable technological solutions to the challenges facing the construction and built environment sector in Ireland and elsewhere. The MSc in Construction Innovation is targeted at individuals wishing to upskill/reskill to meet the critical demand for skills in innovation, digital adoption, sustainability and modern methods of construction, as identified in the Ernst & Young ‘Detailed Description of Needs for the Irish Construction/Built Environment Sector’ report (2021).  

 The MSc in Construction Innovation will enable prospective students to:   

• Develop skills in sustainability, digitalisation and modern methods of construction, 
• Develop advanced research and analytical skills, including expertise in a specific field, effective communication, teamwork, and project management,
• Develop critical thinking, curiosity and problem solving to manage the innovation process, 
• Identify opportunities (and challenges) for innovation in the construction sector, 
• Create novel technology and service solutions to previously unmet, under-met and unrecognised problems,
• Continue their professional development to meet the future needs of the sector. 

Experience a 1 ECT equivalent micro-learning course from our Construct Innovate series

Earn a digital badge and explore the University's Virtual Learning Environment: Retrofitting Ireland's Buildings. This course is based on Week 6 of our Micro-credential CE5104: Sustainability Planning in Construction.

What will I study?  

Course Description:

The course focuses on construction innovation, equipping learners with key knowledge and skills in innovation, digital adoption, sustainability and modern methods of construction. The course is delivered through blended learning, consisting of lectures, workshops, guest speakers seminars, , self-directed learning materials, online activities and extensive resources.  Each module will consist of:  

• online materials and guided reading; 
• weekly lectures with associated activities;
• weekly workshops;
• guest speaker seminars; and 
• one full-day block workshop with discussions either on our main campus or on site of one of our industry partners.     

Course Content:

Students must undertake the following core modules are:  

• CE5104 Sustainability Planning in Construction (10 ECTS; Year 1, Semester 1; Blended; No-prerequisites) 
  This module will support the students, as the current/future construction sector stakeholders, in developing more sustainable construction processes and products, with a focus on areas of energy performance of buildings, retrofitting of existing structures, decarbonisation of construction processes and circularity. Finally, the module will introduce the concept of a just transition for the construction sector, where the needs of end users are understood and translated into new products and processes. 
• CE5105 Digital Construction Technologies (10 ECTS; Year 1, Semester 1; Blended; No-prerequisites) 
  This module will cover the broad areas of building information modelling (BIM) technology, digital twinning, artificial intelligence (AI), visualisation methods and their standard approaches within the construction sector. Digitalisation is fundamentally changing the ways in which construction teams interact. Technologies such as BIM can seamlessly monitor the materials and products delivered to the construction site, in a manner that respects the need for sustainability and traceability. Furthermore, sensors will provide the data for digital twins and their incorporation into construction elements, thus the ability to analyse and exploit the large volumes of data is required. Furthermore, augmented reality technologies are beginning to be used for tasks such as site inspections, allowing continuous monitoring of construction process and conducting quality control checks with greater ease. Clash detection, has already been identified as a benefit of BIM, but recent developments in virtual reality and communication technologies will soon allow design teams to explore design issues from different locations. Technologies such as these will fundamentally change the way in which construction projects are managed and lead to new work processes. This module will engage with students to ensure they are fully prepared for the potential of these new work practices.   This module is a science-based approach and key tools, methods and materials will be explored 
• CE5106 Modern Methods of Construction (10 ECTS; Year 1, Semester 2; Blended; No-prerequisites)
  As part of this module, students will develop skills in Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), as the sector moves rapidly towards Industry 4.0. The module will cover key areas of standardisation and routes to certification, next generation rapid build systems (off-site panelised and modular construction), automation and autonomous construction.  This module is a science-based approach and key tools, methods and materials will be explored. 
• CE5108 Innovation & Entrepreneurship (10 ECTS; Year 1, Semester 2; Blended; No-prerequisites)
  This module focuses on the overall innovation process, from identifying domain-specific needs, validating those needs, brainstorming, and concept creation for new technology products. The module utilises the Massachusetts Institute of Technology "Disciplined Entrepreneurship" approach (https://www.d-eship.com/). The module highlights both business analysis and communication skills, ensuring that graduates are well equipped with skills to manage innovation projects and launch their own enterprises. This module is a science-based approach and key tools, methods and materials will be explored.    
• CE5107 Innovation Project (20 ECTS; Year 1, Semester 3; Blended; No-prerequisites)
  This module is focused on students working in teams to identify a real-world problem in the construction/ built environment area that require an insightful technology/ service solution, inventing and implementing the solution, demonstrating its validity and commercial viability. Students may work on developing pitches for angel and venture capital funding to allow commercialisation. All projects must relate directly to the current needs in the construction/ built environment sector and apply the principles of sustainable design. The focus is on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills, curiosity and utilising a range of tools that will help manage the innovation process. The module is designed around self-directed learning, teamwork and reflection, which enables distance learning. However, workshops, tutorials and drop-in clinics will be provided to enhance students’ learning. 

Students undertaking the Full-Time course must undertake one of the following optional modules: 

• CE5109 Research Project in Construction Innovation (30 ECTS; Year 1, Full Year; Blended; No-prerequisites)
  This module allows students to complete an individual research project on a topic of research interest in construction. The main objective of this module is to plan, execute and report on an individual engineering research project at a level appropriate for a level 9 accredited programme. Students are required to research, write and present the results of their dissertation. Each student will be assigned a project supervisor, which they are expected to meet regularly during the academic year to support them with their project
• CE5110 Work Based Placement in Construction Innovation (30 ECTS; Year 1, Full Year; Blended; No-prerequisites)
  This module allows students to complete a work-based placement in construction innovation. It allows the learner to consolidate all the material taught in the other modules in the programme by applying it to real problems within the construction environment. Given its central role in setting all the other modules in the context of a working construction environment, many of the specific aims and objectives of the programme are considerably advanced by the Work Placement Module. The placement involves elven to twelve months on the job training within a sponsoring company. The learner is monitored both by their immediate company supervisor and by a University of Galway Faculty member.   

Students undertaking the Part-Time course, students must undertake the following core module:

• CE5109 Research Project in Construction Innovation (30 ECTS; Year 2, Full Year; Blended; No-prerequisites)

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1. Cutting-Edge Innovation & Technology 
   Learn the latest in digital construction, modern methods of construction (MMC), and entrepreneurial approaches to drive change in the construction industry. 
2. Sustainability at the Core 
   Gain expertise in sustainable construction practices, from energy-efficient building design to decarbonisation and circular construction principles. 
3. Hands-On, Industry-Connected Learning 
   Experience workshops, guest seminars, and site visits with industry partners, connecting classroom theory with real-world construction challenges. 
4. Real-World Projects & Career Preparation 
   Apply your skills to live projects or optional work-based placements, enhancing your employability and preparing you to lead innovation in the construction sector. 

• The course is designed to provide upskilling opportunities for graduates in industrial and commercial construction, construction technology and in sustainable development sectors. 
• The MSc in Construction Innovation was developed in response to critical and proven skills needs in the construction/built environment sector by Construct Innovate, Ireland’s National Research Centre for Construction Technology and Innovation (https://constructinnovate.ie/), which is hosted at University of Galway. 
• The course that aims to equip students with key knowledge and skills needed to develop sustainable technological solutions to the challenges facing the construction and built environment sector in Ireland and elsewhere.
• The course is targeted at individuals at multiple qualification levels wishing to upskill/reskill to meet the critical demand for skills in innovation, digital adoption, sustainability and modern methods of construction, as identified in the Ernst & Young ‘Detailed Description of Needs for the Irish Construction/Built Environment Sector’ report (2021).  
• It is envisaged that graduates will take up leadership positions in the construction industry to lead change in the modernisation of the sector.

The optional CE5110 Work Based Placement in Construction Innovation allows students to complete a work-based placement in construction innovation. This is only available to students undertaking the Full-Time 1-year course.  

It allows the learner to consolidate all the material taught in the other modules in the programme by applying it to real problems within the construction environment. Given its central role in setting all the other modules in the context of a working construction environment, many of the specific aims and objectives of the programme are considerably advanced by the Work Placement Module. The placement involves eleven to twelve months on the job training within a sponsoring company. The learner is monitored both by their immediate company supervisor and by a University of Galway Faculty member.  

Students should seek their own Work-Based Placement position and should have secured a suitable position by 30 September 2025. If you need help securing a placement, then contact the module coordinator. A suitable placement is a placement that provides you with the opportunity to work in a company that is engaged in work that is relevant to your course. Your module coordinator will review the placement to ensure that it is suitable for you. Once a student’s application to engage a specific non-listed company has been received by the appropriate Placement Officer, the Career Development Centre will send a company assessment document to the company to ensure the company is a safe and suitable location for placement. The placement will be deemed suitable or not suitable pending the outcome of the assessment. A student cannot confirm acceptance of placements with a non-listed company until approved has been granted by the Career Development Centre. 

This Post Graduate Programme is at level 9 of the National Qualifications Framework and is accredited by the University of Galway. 

• Prof. Jamie Goggins
• Dr Paul Moran

How will I learn? 

The MSc in Construction Innovation is a full-time course that will be delivered by blended learning, consisting of live online lectures (up to 3 hours/week), self-directed learning materials, online activities and extensive resources. These will be interactive sessions; students will be expected to watch pre-recorded material and read materials in advance of the online class. Each module is studied over an eight-week block, students finish one module before starting another. 

In parallel, students completing one of the following optional modules: 

• CE5109 Research Project in Construction Innovation (30 ECTS; Year 1, Full Year; Blended; No-prerequisites)
• CE5110 Work Based Placement in Construction Innovation (30 ECTS; Year 1, Full Year; Blended; No-prerequisites)

There is also one on-campus session (9:00 – 17:00), every 8 weeks. These sessions take place in Galway (Saturdays). This equates to two Saturdays between September and December 2025 and two Saturdays between January and April 2026. It is mandatory to attend these in-person workshops and students should plan accordingly. 

How Will I Be Assessed? 

Modules on the MSc in Construction Innovative are assessed via continuous assessment. Some modules will have group assignments where such an assessment fits with the learning outcomes of the module. However, for the most part, students will complete continuous assessments independently. The details of assignments will be provided at the start of each module. The Innovation Project (CE5107) will require group work to research, write-up and present their project in a structured report and oral presentation. For both the work-based placement (CE5110) and the research project (CE5109), learners are required to research, write and present the results in a dissertation. Further details will be provided by your module director on the commencement of this course. 

Students will receive a provisional grade at the end of module. All provisional grades are reviewed by the Course External Examiner and College Examination Board at the end of the academic year. The Examinations Office post all results to the home address of each candidate following the final examination process, this is usually in October each academic year. It is the responsibility of students to ensure that their home address is correct on their record. 

Course queries: 
victoria.mossman@universityofgalway.ie  (Administrator) 

paul.t.moran@universityofgalway.ie (Programme Director) 

Programme Director(s):  

Dr Paul Moran
Lecturer of Civil Engineering | Ollamh le hInnealtóireacht Shibhialta 
College of Science & Engineering, School of Engineering 
University of Galway 
Email: paul.t.moran@universityofgalway.ie 

Module leads:  

• CE5104 Sustainability Planning in Construction (J Goggins)  
• CE5105 Digital Construction Technologies (J Goggins)  
• CE5106 Modern Methods of Construction (P Moran)  
• CE5108 Innovation & Entrepreneurship (E Doherty)  
• CE5107 Innovation Project (P Moran)  
• CE5109 Research Project in Construction Innovation (P Moran)  
• CE5110 Work Based Placement in Construction Innovation (P Moran) 

Candidates who do not meet the minimum entry criteria are encouraged to contact the programme's administrators to discuss eligibility through a process of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) https://www.universityofgalway.ie/rpl/  and may be interviewed to ascertain their suitability for the course. 

Minimum Entry Requirements 

Applicants should hold:  

• an undergraduate bachelor degree 1st or 2nd class honours in any discipline (level 8);  
• or an ordinary bachelors degree or 3rd class honours undergraduate degree (level 7), along with five years of relevant industrial experience;  
• or a recognised professional qualification and five years of relevant industrial experience.  

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) 

Candidates who do not meet the minimum entry criteria are encouraged to contact the programme's administrators to discuss eligibility through a process of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and may be interviewed to ascertain their suitability for the course. 

Academic entry requirements standardised per country are available here. 

English Language Entry Requirements 

For applicants whose first language is not English, an English language proficiency of IELTS score of 6.5 is required (with no less than 6.5 in Writing and no less than 6.0 in any other band) or equivalent.  

More information on English language test equivalency are available here.  

Supporting Documents 

You will be required to provide supporting documentation as part of your application. You can check here what supporting documents are required for this course.   

You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Please review the entry requirements set out in the section above.  

You will be required to upload supporting documentation to your application electronically. See the section above on entry requirements for further information on the supporting documentation required for this course.  

Closing Dates 

For this programme, there is no specific closing date for receipt of applications. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and course quotes will be reviewed continuously throughout the application cycle.  

Notes 

• You will need an active email account to use the website and you'll be guided through the system, step by step, until you complete the online form.
• Browse the FAQ's section for further guidance.  

Fees for Academic Year 2026/27

Course Type	Year	EU Tuition	Student Contribution	Non-EU Tuition	Levy	Total Fee	Total EU Fee	Total Non-EU Fee
Masters Full Time	1	€8,900		€28,500	€140		€9,040	€28,640
Masters Part Time	1	€4,500			€140		€4,640

For 26/27 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 1.8% per annum for continuing years fees.

Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,500 towards your tuition (2026/27).  You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee.  A P1 grant is where SUSI will pay tuition up to a maximum of €6,270. SUSI will not cover the student levy of €140.

Note to non-EU students: learn about the 24-month Stayback Visa here. 

Postgraduate Excellence Scholarships 

This scholarship is valued at €1,500 for EU students applying for full-time taught master's postgraduate courses. You will be eligible if: 

• You have been accepted to a full-time taught master's course at University of Galway,
• You have attained a first class honours (or equivalent) in a Level 8 primary degree.  

An application for the scholarship scheme is required (separate to the application for a place on the programme). The application portal for 2025 is now open and available here. Applications will close on the 30th September 2025. Full details available here.  

Global Scholarships

University of Galway offers a range of merit-based scholarships to students from a number of countries outside of the EU. Visit here for schemes currently available.

Application Process 

Students applying for full time postgraduate programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Our application portal opens on the 1st October each year for entry the following September.   

Further Information

Please visit the postgraduate admissions webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process. 

Construct Innovate – Ireland’s National Centre for Construction Innovation