MSc and Diploma in Façade Engineering
The application deadline for October 2010 entry is 15 September (for applicants who do not require a visa) Apply now
This programme provides the theoretical basis for a sound understanding over all the disciplines involved in the performance of facades and examines the complex inter-relationships between those different aspects through a consideration of existing constructions. Knowledge of materials, methods of manufacture and installation are considered as essential elements in the successful design of facades and are given a prominent place in the programme.
The programme may be taken as either one year full-time or two years part-time (up to a maximum of four years). On either route there is the equivalent of two semesters of teaching (full or part-time day release) followed by a dissertation. Where students do not wish, or are ineligible to progress to the dissertation, a Postgraduate Diploma is awarded after successful completion of the taught modules only. Each taught unit may be taken for CPD (Continuing Professional Development) purposes by professionals who do not wish to follow the entire programme.
The MSc course is open to engineers, architects and suitably qualified candidates from other fields, including those engaged in the procurement, design, manufacture and assembly of curtain walling systems with a first degree or equivalent professional qualification. At the discretion of the Board of Studies students may be admitted solely on the basis of extensive professional experience in a relevant field.
This programme began in 1996 and over 150 graduates are now employed in industry and research. Students come from many backgrounds but all have a common interest in facade engineering and share their experience while learning. Students were recruited from careers in architecture, engineering, and contracting and also direct from undergraduate studies.
The University has a long history of successful interdisciplinary education for design professionals and has pioneered the use of design projects in undergraduate teaching by making use of both university based researchers and practicing architects and engineers.
The University of Bath is an ideal institution for a specialist course in facades because it is the home of the Centre for Window and Cladding Technology. The Centre has become a national focus for research in the field of Facade Engineering and plays an important part internationally in the dissemination of knowledge, for example CWCT recently hosted the International Conference 'Glass in Buildings' and is the co-ordinator of CIB TG25, the international study group on 'Facade systems and technologies'.
The Programme Handbook can be found here.