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Accessibility & LanguageModern Methods of Construction (PgCert)
PgCert (Modern Methods of Construction)
College of Science and Engineering- Title of Award
- Postgraduate Certificate
- Course Code
- CNI8
- Average Intake
- 20
- Delivery
- On Campus
- NFQ
- Level
- Award Type
- Major
- Next Intake
- September 2026
Why Choose This Course?
Course Information
The course is delivered through blended learning, consisting of pre-recorded lectures, live online webinars (1 hour/week), live online workshops (2 hours/week), self-directed learning materials, online activities and extensive resources, and on campus sessions (full day every 8 weeks).
Each module will consist of: online materials and guided reading; weekly lectures with associated activities; and 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.
Curriculum Information
Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.
Glossary of Terms
- Credits
- You must earn a defined number of credits (aka ECTS) to complete each year of your course. You do this by taking all of its required modules as well as the correct number of optional modules to obtain that year's total number of credits.
- Module
- An examinable portion of a subject or course, for which you attend lectures and/or tutorials and carry out assignments. E.g. Algebra and Calculus could be modules within the subject Mathematics. Each module has a unique module code eg. MA140.
- Optional
- A module you may choose to study.
- Required
- A module that you must study if you choose this course (or subject).
- Semester
- Most courses have 2 semesters (aka terms) per year.
Year 1 (30 Credits)
RequiredCE5104: Sustainability Planning in Construction
CE5104: Sustainability Planning in Construction
Semester 1 | Credits: 10
The built environment and construction industry is in a position of considerable
responsibility and influence, in terms of delivering a more climate-resilient economy’ (Ernst & Young ‘Detailed Description of
Needs for the Irish Construction/Built Environment Sector’ report, 2021). Climate action continues to be one of the key drivers for
the construction sector, and this will continue to be the case for the considerable future in Ireland and internationally. The
Government must meet very challenging CO2 reduction targets while ensuring sustainable development. This creates
opportunities for the retrofitting of existing structures and finding improved ways to construct new buildings. 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. This module is
a science-based approach and key tools, methods and materials will be explored. On a successful completion of the module,
students will: · Understand the energy performance of a building, with a focus on building envelope and ventilation/ heating
systems; · Be able to effectively utilise building regulations and best practice standards for new builds and retrofits; · Gain
experience in performing building energy simulation software; · Critically assess the performance of different renewable energy
sources in buildings; · Understand the principles of sustainable design in the built environment; · Assess the environmental, social
and economic impact of construction. · Understand the concepts of embodied and operational carbon and life cycle assessment
(LCA); · Understand the principles of circular economy for the construction sector, including increasing circularity rates, reducing
waste, and improving material efficiency; · Reflect on the concepts of social justice applicable to the construction process, e.g.
housing needs, sustainable transport, gender equality, etc. Delivery: This module will be delivered within 8 weeks in a blended
learning mode consisting of (i) online materials and guided reading; (ii) weekly lectures with associated activities; and (iii) one
full-day workshop with discussions. Attendance and active participation are essential components of this course. During the
lectures, students will have the opportunity to ask questions and interact directly with academic staff. All reading assignments
must be completed prior to attending class.The needs for the course are identified through careful observation and primary market
research, starting with the EY report (2021). The following topics will be covered as part of this module: · Building energy
performance; · Building standards and regulations for the Irish construction industry; · Building energy simulation; · Renewable
energy sources; · Sustainable design of built environment; · Whole life carbon assessment; · Circular economy for the construction
sector; · Just transition for the construction sector
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Evaluate the energy performance of a building, with a focus on building envelope and ventilation/ heating systems
- Effectively utilise building regulations and best practice standards for new builds and retrofits
- Gain experience in performing building energy simulation software
- Critically assess the performance of different renewable energy sources in buildings
- Consider the principles of sustainable design in the built environment
- Assess the environmental, social and economic impact of construction
- Apply the concepts of embodied and operational carbon and life cycle assessment (LCA)
- Apply the principles of circular economy for the construction sector, including increasing circularity rates, reducing waste, and improving material efficiency;
- Reflect on the concepts of social justice applicable to the construction process, e.g. housing needs, sustainable transport, gender equality, etc.
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module CE5104: "Sustainability Planning in Construction" and is valid from 2024 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredCE5105: Digital Construction Technologies
CE5105: Digital Construction Technologies
Semester 1 | Credits: 10
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. 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. These technologies
will fundamentally change the way in which construction projects are managed, leading 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. On successful completion of the module, students
will: · Understand the key concepts of digitisation in construction, including building information modelling (BIM), digital twins and
augmented reality; · Develop a deeper understanding of the opportunities offered by advances in BIM, big data and sensor
technologies; · Develop skills in BIM in the whole building lifecycle, including facilities management; · Be able to track the
progress, materials and products flow through the construction project; · Gain practical experience in using BIM tools; ·
Understand the need for sensors to provide the data for digital twins and their incorporation into construction elements; · Be able
to analyse and exploit large volumes of data generated during a construction project; · Understand the standardised approaches
and best practice for improved information flow and information management across the whole construction project lifecycle.
Delivery: This module will be delivered within 8 weeks in a blended learning mode consisting of (i) online materials and guided
reading; (ii) weekly lectures with associated activities; and (iii) one full-day workshop with discussions. Attendance and active
participation are essential components of this course. During the lectures, students will have the opportunity to ask questions and
interact directly with academic staff. All reading assignments must be completed prior to attending. The course needs are
identified through careful observation and primary market research, starting with the EY report (2021). The following topics will be
covered as part of this module: · Building Information modelling (BIM); · Sensor networks and building management systems; ·
Digital twins and performance modelling; · Real-life data collection and analysis; · Standards and best practice in data
management.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Describe the key concepts of digitisation in construction, including building information modelling (BIM), digital twins and augmented reality
- Consider the opportunities offered by advances in BIM, big data and sensor technologies
- Apply BIM in the whole building lifecycle, including facilities management
- Track the progress, materials and products flow through the construction project
- Gain practical experience in using BIM tools;
- Consider the need for sensors to provide the data for digital twins and their incorporation into construction elements
- Analyse and exploit large volumes of data generated during a construction project
- Apply standardised approaches and best practice for improved information flow and information management across the whole construction project lifecycle
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module CE5105: "Digital Construction Technologies" and is valid from 2024 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredCE5106: Modern Methods of Construction
CE5106: Modern Methods of Construction
Semester 2 | Credits: 10
As identified by the EY ‘Detailed Description of Needs’ report (2021), ‘The construction industry is under pressure to increase productivity and efficiency while also meeting the growing needs of an expanding population. It has to move to a new, higher level of performance and quality, while also being attentive to environmental, sustainability and circular economy imperatives’. The report showed that modern methods of construction (MMC) is one of the key areas for the construction and built environment sector. As part of this module, learners 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. On a successful
completion of the module, students will: · Understand the importance of testing, standards and certification in the adoption of MMC
and their relevance to engineers, architects, quantity surveyors, contractors and decision makers, including the Agrément assessment and Building Regulation compliance; · Assess what standards and regulations are relevant to various MMC; · Be able to recommend routes to certification; · Understand the impact of waste and the principles of circularity in the construction sector, including introduction to life cycle assessment (LCA); · Understand the pattern design approach, incl. the Construction Innovation Hub Platform Rulebook; · Review the current best practice and future trends for next generation rapid build construction (off-site
panelised and modular construction); · Understand the concepts and methods of MMC in new builds and retrofits; · Understand
new materials, easy to assemble sub-assemblies and efficient MMC; · Review the current best practice and future trends in
automation, including manufacturing of new products and their installation on site; · Be able to identify risks of MMC and key considerations for various stakeholders; · Understand challenges and barriers in adopting MMC. Delivery: This module will be delivered within 8 weeks in a blended learning mode consisting of (i) online materials and guided reading; (ii) weekly lectures with associated activities; and (iii) one full-day workshop with discussions. Attendance and active participation are essential
components of this course. During the lectures, students will have the opportunity to ask questions and interact directly with
academic staff. All reading assignments must be completed prior to attending. The course needs are identified through careful observation and primary market research, starting with the EY report (2021). The following topics will be covered as part of this module: · Introduction to standards, certification and testing; · Routes to certification for MMC; · Circular design and waste reduction; · Rapid build systems, including off-site panelised and modular systems, timber and light-gauge steel systems; · Low carbon materials and systems; · MMC in new construction and retrofits; · Construction automation and quality checks.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Explain the importance of testing, standards and certification in the adoption of MMC and their relevance to engineers, architects, quantity surveyors, contractors and decision makers, including the Agrément assessment and Building Regulation compliance
- Assess what standards and regulations are relevant to various MMC
- Recommend routes to certification
- Assess the impact of waste and the principles of circularity in the construction sector, including introduction to life cycle assessment (LCA)
- Apply the pattern design approach, incl. the Construction Innovation Hub Platform Rulebook
- Consider the current best practice and future trends for next generation rapid build construction (off-site panelised and modular construction)
- Describe the concepts and methods of MMC in new builds and retrofits
- Appraise new materials, easy to assemble sub-assemblies and efficient MMC
- Review the current best practice and future trends in automation, including manufacturing of new products and their installation on site, taking account of quality management, quality assurance and Six Sigma in MMC
- Identify risks of MMC and key considerations for various stakeholders
- Describe challenges and barriers in adopting MMC
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module CE5106: "Modern Methods of Construction" and is valid from 2024 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
The course is designed to provide upskilling opportunities for graduates in industrial and commercial construction, construction technology, and in sustainable development sectors. It is also envisaged that graduates will take up leadership positions in the construction industry to lead change in the modernisation of the sector.
- The Postgraduate Certificate in Modern Methods of Construction equips students with key knowledge and skills needed to develop sustainable technological solutions to challenges facing the construction and built environment sector.
- The course supports the development of a modernised and sustainable construction sector underpinned by circular economy and climate action.
On successful completion, students will have enhanced skills in problem solving, research, communication, and innovative thinking. - Graduates will have communicated difficult ideas clearly and persuasively while understanding different points of view.
- Students will have looked at problems from diverse points of view and identified problems while formulating questions relevant to clarifying issues.
Graduates will have enhanced ability to support a position with argumentation and logic.
The course is designed to provide upskilling opportunities for graduates in industrial and commercial construction, construction technology and in sustainable development sectors. It is also envisaged that graduates will take up leadership positions in the construction industry to lead change in the modernisation of the sector.
International Field Trip
This Post Graduate Programme is at level 9 of the National Qualifications Framework and is accredited by the University of Galway.
The course is delivered through blended learning, consisting of pre-recorded lectures, live online webinars (1 hour/week), live online workshops (2 hours/week), self-directed learning materials, online activities and extensive resources, and on campus sessions (full day every 8 weeks).
Each module will consist of:
- online materials and guided reading;
- weekly lectures with associated activities; and
- one full-day workshop with discussions.
Course queries:
jamie.goggins@universityofgalway.ie
Programme Director(s):
Professor Jamie Goggins
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).
This programme is designed to provide early and mid-career accountants with the skills and knowledge needed to engage with big data in a variety of roles in practice and industry.
Candidates who have completed all of the professional accounting examinations and have been admitted as full members by a recognised professional accountancy body including the following: ACCA, CIPFA, CIMA, ICAEW, ICAI, ICAS or other IFAC member body assessed as equivalent by the academic programme director, are eligible for consideration.
On the successful completion of this programme students will have:
- Enhanced skills in the area of problem solving.
- Enhanced students’ skills in research, communication, and innovative thinking.
Communicated difficult ideas in a clear and persuasive manner, while listening to others and understanding different points of view [Communication Skills]. - Looked at problems from diverse points of view [Design and Planning Skills].
- Identified a problem and formulated questions relevant to clarifying an issue or a set of issues [Research and Investigation Skills].
- Enhanced students ability to support a position with argumentation and logic
Accreditations & Awards
Meet our Employers
Entry Requirements and Fees
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 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.
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.
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.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PG Cert | 1 | €4,350 | €Part Time | €70 | €4,420 | €70 |
*Partial & limited funding is also available to eligible participants employed in the Irish private sector from Industry 4.0 Skillnet, contact: info@industry4skillnet.com
Partial & limited funding is available to eligible participants employed in the Irish private sector from Industry 4.0 Skillnet, contact: info@industry4skillnet.com
Why University of Galway?
World renowned research led university nestled in the vibrant heart of Galway city on Ireland's scenic West Coast.
Contact the College of Science and Engineering
University of Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland, H91 TK33
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Meet Our Alumni
Upskill in digital, sustainable and modern construction
The Postgraduate Certificate in Modern Methods of Construction is a one-year part-time course that aims to equip students with the key knowledge and skills needed to develop sustainable technological solutions to the challenges facing the construction and built environment sector in Ireland and elsewhere with a particular focus on modern methods of construction. This course will target individuals at multiple qualification levels wishing to upskill/reskill to meet the critical demand for skills in digital adoption, sustainability and modern methods of construction.
