View/download COURSE TIMETABLE here. 

The Postgraduate Diploma consists of four taught modules and a project.  It will be delivered by blended learning, consisting of live online lectures (three hours/week), self-directed learning materials, online activities and extensive resources, and on campus sessions (full-day every 8 weeks). Timing of student contact hours will ensure that those in employment can fully benefit. 

Each module will consist of: 

1. online materials and guided reading;
2. weekly lectures with associated activities; and
3. one full-day workshop with discussions.  

Module 1: Sustainability Planning in Construction (10 ECTS)  

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.  

Module 2: Digital Construction Technologies (10 ECTS) 

This module will cover the broad areas of building information modelling (BIM) technology, digital twinning, visualisation methods and their standard approaches within the construction sector.  

Digitalisation will fundamentally change the ways in which construction teams interact. Technologies such as BIM will 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.   

Module 3: Modern Methods of Construction (10 ECTS) 

As part of this module, students will develop skills in 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.   

Module 4: Innovation and Entrepreneurship (10 ECTS) 

The module highlights both business analysis and communication skills, ensuring that graduates are well equipped with skills manage innovation projects and launch their own enterprises. This module is a science-based approach and key tools, methods and materials will be explored.   

Module 5: Innovation Project (20 ECTS) 

This module is focused on students working in teams to identify a real-world problems in the construction/ built environment area that require an insightful technology/ service solution, inventing and implementing the solution, demonstrating its validity and commercial viability, and 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, team work and reflection, which enables distance learning. However, workshops, tutorials and drop in clinics will be provided via online platform to enhance students’ learning. This module is a practical approach and the delivery of this project will be supported by modules 1–4.  

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• Range of modules: Includes modules in in sustainability, digitalisation and modern methods of construction, providing both practical and theoretical expertise.
• Industry connections: Provides strong connections with Construct Innovate, Ireland’s National Research Centre for Construction Technology and Innovation, offering real-world exposure to innovation in construction and built environment technology.
• Enhance analytical skills: Build the ability to interpret and analyse data using advanced tools and methodologies to support the development of a modernised and sustainable construction sector underpinned by circular economy and climate action objectives.
• Strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving abilities: Learn to approach real world engineering challenges critically, using both theoretical and practical perspectives to develop innovative solutions.
• Develop innovation and entrepreneurial skills: Learn to manage and launch enterprises that offer innovative solutions to a more sustainable construction sector. 

• The Postgraduate Diploma 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.

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 Postgraduate Diploma in Construction Innovation is a part-time course that will be delivered by blended learning, consisting of live online lectures (up to 3 hours/week), self-directed learning materials, extensive resources and online activities. Online lectures will be interactive sessions, with students 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. 

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 Postgraduate Diploma 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.  

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
E: victoria.mossman@universityofgalway.ie  (Administrator) 

Paul Moran
E: paul.t.moran@universityofgalway.ie (Programme Director) 

Programme Director(s):  

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

Module leads:  

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

University of Galway recognises that knowledge and skills can be acquired from a range of learning experiences. This is in line with the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) goals which aim to recognise all learning achievements by supporting the development of alternative pathways to qualifications (or awards) and by facilitating the recognition of prior learning (RPL).

• Exhibit the ability to self-assess and self-direct.
• Plan, manage, and execute a substantial independent and team study project. 
• 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. 
• Create novel technology and service solutions to previously unmet, under-met and unrecognised problems.

Applicants should hold: 

• an undergraduate bachelor degree 1st or 2nd class honours in any discipline (level 8), along with three years of relevant industrial experience;
• or an ordinary bachelor 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. 

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

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 Recognition through Prior Learning (RPL) and may be interviewed to ascertain their suitability for the programme. 

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.   

This course is funded through Springboard+, you can apply for this course here.

Closing Dates 

Applications typically open in late June, and places are in high demand. Funding is limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to unemployed and returning applicants. Courses will close once all available places are filled.

Course Type	Year	EU Tuition	Student Contribution	Non-EU Tuition	Levy	Total Fee	Total EU Fee	Total Non-EU Fee

Springboard+ programmes are fully funded for unemployed and returning applicants, and 90% funded for those in employment.