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Building Information Modelling and Digital Transformation

Apply for this course

The deadline for UK students to apply for this course for entry in 2023 was 31 August 2023.

The deadline for international students was 14 July 2023.

UK students

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There is no fee to apply for our courses.

What you'll need

As part of the application process, you'll need to submit:

  • School or college transcripts/certificates
  • University transcripts and certified translations if applicable
  • Degree certificates
  • Personal statement outlining your learning ambitions

Our application process

  • Sign into our online portal, Apply Yourself, and start your application
  • Submit your application
  • We'll email you to let you know we're processing your application
  • Track the progress of your application using the Postgraduate Application Tracker (we'll send you a link to the tracker)
  • We'll email you when a decision has been made
  • If you've been made an offer, you can then accept or decline it using the Postgraduate Application Tracker.

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There are eight courses related to Building Information Modelling and Digital Transformation that you might be interested in.

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Course overview

Discover the transformational impact and future potential of building information modelling (BIM) on architecture, engineering and construction. You’ll gain expertise using innovative digital technologies and explore the application and implementation of BIM across all stages of project planning and delivery.

Introduction

The rapid evolution of digital technologies and innovations in design and construction is transforming how professionals in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry are creating, communicating and interacting.

Building information modelling (BIM) is emerging as a new method, process and technology for creating and managing information for a built asset. Automating information flow across disciplines, BIM is embedding a culture of collaboration, integration and coordination across the design, construction and operational phases of building projects.

This programme will immerse you in the exciting new tools, technologies and methods that are driving this digital transformation and collaborative approach to project delivery.

You’ll gain practical experience using BIM software, including design authoring tools, such as Revit, ArchiCAD and Rhino, as well as design coordination and clash detection tools, for example Navisworks and Solibri.

Other specialist software and hardware technologies will also be introduced. These range from 3D visualisation and animation software to virtual reality, parametric modelling, and sustainable environmental design.

Guided by academic experts, researchers and leading practitioners, you’ll take part in a variety of team-based tasks and activities. These will provide you with experience of devising BIM implementation strategies, researching BIM in real-world contexts, and identifying and communicating the benefits and challenges of BIM for a project or organisation.

What you'll learn

  • The theories, technologies, methods and processes underpinning BIM
  • National and international BIM standards
  • Innovations driving digital transformation in the architecture, engineering and construction industry
  • How to use design authoring tools and design coordination and clash detection tools
  • How to develop and communicate BIM implementation plans and recommendations
  • How to design and manage effective workflows in collaborative BIM settings
  • The role of BIM technologies in sustainable design and energy-efficient solutions
  • The impact of BIM on the design, construction and operational stages of building projects

Course content

Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.

Studying this course part-time

International students may be able to study this course on a part-time basis but this is dependent on visa regulations. Please visit the Government website for more information about student visas.

If you're able to study part-time, you'll study the same modules as the full-time master's degree over a longer period, usually 24 months. You can make studying work for you by arranging your personal schedule around lectures and seminars which take place during the day. After you complete all the taught modules, you will complete your final dissertation or project and will celebrate your achievements at graduation the following term.

Studying part-time means you can study alongside work or any other life commitments. You will study the same modules as the full-time master's degree over a longer period, usually 24 months. You can make studying work for you by arranging your personal schedule around lectures and seminars which take place during the day. After you complete all the taught modules, you will complete your final dissertation or project and will celebrate your achievements at graduation the following term.

Semester one

Compulsory modules

BIM Theory, Practice and Tools (ARCH724)

Credits: 30 / Semester: semester 1

The module aims to provide students with a critical and systematic understanding of the theoretical, practical and technological aspects of Building Information Modelling as a tool, as a process, and as a managerial method. Through a combination of formal lectures, presentations and seminars managed by academic staff and leading practitioners from the AEC industry, students will be able to scrutinise the multi-faceted impact of BIM on the whole project life-cycle based on a thorough understanding of the limitations of traditional project delivery and the several challenges that may restrict full BIM adoption in practice. The module will introduce students to the various concepts and technologies that underpin BIM practice such as nD modelling and maturity levels, common data environment and clouds, data exchange and design coordination, clash detection and model checking, and interoperability and Industry Foundation Classes (IFCs). Students will also get familiar with the national and international BIM standards and will be able to observe the growth of BIM adoption in the UK and worldwide. Furthermore, the module will present BIM as enabling tool/method to support building sustainability and will introduce students to different concepts that are shaping the wider context of BIM and its future potentials such as parametric modelling, digital design, big data and smart cities. The module will be complemented with case studies to show examples of successful BIM implementation within real building projects. The module will introduce students to the case study research, allowing students to investigate the applications of BIM within a real-life project while enhancing their academic writing and research skills.

Optional modules

BIM-ENABLED SUSTAINABILITY (ARCH746)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

In this module, students will first be introduced to the key concepts of sustainability and sustainable environmental design. This will provide students with a basis for understanding how BIM tools and related technologies can support all stages of sustainable design from inception, to construction, to operation and enhance the performance of buildings. Students will have the opportunity to explore the use of BIM tools through case studies.

PARAMETRIC DESIGN AND DIGITAL FABRICATION 1 (ARCH729)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module is an introduction to parametric modelling tools and digital fabrication techniques, such as 3D printing, CNC milling and laser cutting.

VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENTS FOR ARCHITECTURE (ARCH708)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

With the rapid development of Virtual Reality (VR) and Virtual Environments (VE), costs have now fallen to the point where it is feasible and practical for architects to consider integrating VR/VE in their design workflow. This module aims to give a theoretical and practical grounding in VR and VE to equip students with the tools to use this technology.

Students will be introduced to the historical context of virtual environments and virtual reality, and different related concepts such as augmented reality and mixed reality. They will experience different ways of interacting with the virtual environments through modelling, editing, immersing and walkthroughs.

Students will be able to explore profoundly different VR systems through a comparative study. They will be introduced to various software specialised in advanced 3D modelling, visualisation, and animation, and will be able to practice those software through developing a detailed model for an existing space.

Computational Design Theory and Practice (ARCH777)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

In parallel to the rapid evolution of digital technologies, architectural practice is similarly undergoing unprecedented, rapid transitional changes. New design tools, techniques and methodologies are being developed that are shifting the design processes from individual to collaborative, from disciplinary to interdisciplinary, and from implicit to explicit. The tools are becoming more adaptable, the processes are becoming more iterative and flexible, and the traditional form-based models are being abandoned in favour of data-rich and performative models.

This module will introduce students to the different computational design methods, such as performative design, generative and algorithmic design, as well as parametric design. Students will also be introduced to digital fabrication and will touch on some applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in architectural design. The students will therefore be able to scrutinise the real impact of the computational design methods on the architectural design process based on critical understanding of the nature, structure and methods of conventional design.

Students will also be able to critically and profoundly investigate the true potential of computational design in real practice through conducting case study research for an existing architectural project.

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Our curriculum

The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:

  • Digital fluency
  • Confidence
  • Global citizenship

Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

  • Research-connected teaching
  • Active learning
  • Authentic assessment

All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.

Your experience

The Liverpool School of Architecture benefits from a comfortable, well-lit studio, work and seminar/review spaces, including a ‘hi-tech’ design studio, to which you will have 24-hour access.

Our facilities include a Print Media Design Suite, computing labs, workshops, a laser suite, a CNC router room, 3D printers, computing labs and research labs. A team of dedicated technicians will help you to get the most of these facilities and to realise your ideas.

Virtual tour

Supporting your learning

From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:

Why study Architecture at Liverpool?

  • Established in 1894, the Liverpool School of Architecture was the first university in the UK to award a RIBA-accredited degree in Architecture
  • As one of the UK’s premier centres for architectural research and education, the Liverpool School of Architecture is the ideal place to pursue your architecture studies
  • We are ranked 9th in the UK for Architecture (The Guardian University Guide 2023) and 5th in the sector for overall research classified as world leading (4*) or internationally excellent (3*) (REF 2021)
  • We are strongly focused on research, and have many leading architectural experts based amongst our teaching staff
  • Our membership of the School of the Arts and wider University presents intriguing specialist opportunities, in fields such as autonomous building systems, arts and building design, and climate change risk mitigation
  • Work is underway on a major refurbishment of our premises, which will comprise a new-build addition of more than 2,000M. The £23 million scheme has been designed by Dublin-based architects O’Donnell + Tuomey, and is expected to be completed by 2024.

Careers and employability

BIM is a rapidly growing area of architecture, engineering and construction, both in the UK and also globally. This programme enhances your employability by enabling you to get hands-on with a variety of design tools. You’ll gain practical experience and insights using these innovative technologies.

A variety of tasks will familiarise you with the activities and real-world challenges that BIM professionals encounter in practice. They’ll also enable you to demonstrate communication, teamwork, presentation and problem-solving skills.

Career planning

Three career coaches standing outside the Careers Studio

Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.

From education to employment

Two graduates in postgraduate robes.

We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.

Networking events

Postgraduate students hold a discussion while sat round a table in in the Liverpool Guild of Students.

You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.

Your future

BIM professionals are in high demand in a range of roles and industries relevant to the built environment.

These include careers in:

  • Architecture
  • Construction
  • Management
  • Project management
  • Higher education
  • The arts
  • Conservation.

You may also wish to continue your studies and will find you are well prepared for PhD research.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year £10,150
Part-time place, per year £5,075
International fees
Full-time place, per year £21,350
Part-time place, per year £10,675
Fees stated are for the 2023-24 academic year.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.

If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about tuition fees, funding and Postgraduate Loans.

Additional costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.

Additional study costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.

Find out more about additional study costs.

Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries to help cover tuition fees and help with living expenses while at university.


ANID CHILE Awards

  • International students
  • Chile

Postgraduate taught and research students from Chile are eligible for this scholarship.

Chevening Scholarships

  • International students

The University, in partnership with Chevening, is delighted to offer this generous scholarship to students who are studying a master’s programme and who have future leadership potential. Please note that there is a fee cap applied to MBA programmes that requires applicants to cover any additional tuition costs over £18,000. You will still receive all additional allowances.

CONACYT Award

  • International students
  • Mexico

The University of Liverpool has an agreement with CONACYT to support postgraduate taught and research students from Mexico.

FIDERH Award

  • International students
  • Mexico

20% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate taught and research programmes. Must be Mexico national.

Fulbright Commission Scholarship

  • International students
  • University of Liverpool alumni only
  • United States

One scholarship is available for a master’s student from the US and another is available for a postgraduate research student to undertake a three to six month research stay from the US

FUNED Awards

  • International students
  • Mexico

Up to ten awards are available for Masters or Research students from Mexico in receipt of FUNED loans. The award gives students a 20% reduction in fees for all applications received.

HRM Princess Sirindhorn University of Liverpool Scholarship (Thailand)

  • International students
  • Thailand

The University is able to offer one award to a new postgraduate taught master’s student from Thailand.

The scholarship is open to all subjects offered as a one-year taught master’s programme.  However, priority will be given to those students who wish to study in a subject area associated with HRH Princess Sirindhorn such as science, IT, medicine, the arts, geography, history and languages.

John Lennon Memorial Scholarship

  • Home students

The John Lennon Memorial Scholarships were set up by a trust fund endowed in the University for the provision of scholarships in the memory of John Lennon. The award is intended to support students from Merseyside who might be in financial need and enhance, among other things, awareness of global problems and environmental issues.

Current or prospective UK (taught and research) students, either born in or with very strong family connections to Merseyside can apply for these awards.

JuventudEsGto Scholarship

  • International students
  • Mexico

Residents of State of Guanajuato, Mexico, wishing to study at postgraduate taught and research levels are eligible for this scholarship.

Marshall Scholarship

  • International students
  • University of Liverpool alumni only
  • United States

One scholarship is available for a master’s student from the US to cover the cost of tuition fees. Another, to the value of £20,000, is available for Doctoral study visit: https://www.marshallscholarship.org/

Postgraduate Opportunity Bursary

  • Home students
  • University of Liverpool current students and alumni only

Recipients must have been in receipt of one of the University’s Widening Access Awards as an undergraduate.

UK University of Liverpool graduates who have graduated in the last two years and are progressing to a standard master’s course, including MRes programmes, in 2023.

Graduates must have been in receipt of the University’s Widening Access Award during their undergraduate studies i.e.

Liverpool Bursary
Mature Students’ Bursary
Liverpool Scholars’ Award
Realising Opportunities Award
North Liverpool Academy Scholarship
Estranged Students’ Bursary
Young Adult Carers’ Bursary
Care Leaver’s Opportunity Bursary
The Liverpool Life Sciences UTC Scholarship
Recipients of the Asylum Seekers Bursary who now have a ‘home’ fee status classification.

Postgraduate Progression Award – International Students

  • International students
  • University of Liverpool current students and alumni only

Current international University of Liverpool students and alumni are eligible for a £2,500 fee reduction when progressing to a master’s course.

If you’re a current international University of Liverpool undergraduate or alumni, including Study Abroad and Exchange students and students from Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, progressing to either a full or part-time new postgraduate taught programme you’re eligible to receive our Postgraduate Progression Award.

Postgraduate Progression Award – UK students

  • Home students
  • University of Liverpool current students and alumni only

The Postgraduate Progression Award is available to all UK University of Liverpool undergraduate students or alumni considering a postgraduate taught/master’s course, including MRes qualifications, at our Liverpool campus.

Eligible applicants MUST have completed their undergraduate degree at the Liverpool campus.

Sport Liverpool Scholarships

  • Home and international students

The University is pleased to be able to offer scholarships to talented athletes competing at national and regional levels. See https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/sports/team-sport-liverpool/performance-programme/  for more information.

The Aziz Foundation Scholarship

  • Home students

The University of Liverpool together with the Aziz Foundation are offering master’s scholarships to support British Muslims who are dedicated to bringing positive change to society and have career aspirations in media and journalism, technology, sustainability and the environment, law, policy (excluding health policy) and creative content.

Successful applicants will receive a full scholarship for their tuition fees and access to a programme of training days and career mentors via Aziz Scholarships Plus and the Aziz Scholars Association.

Students in receipt of one of the Aziz Scholarships are not eligible for other University of Liverpool bursaries or scholarships.

Turkish Ministry of Education Scholarship

  • International students
  • Turkey

Postgraduate taught and research students from Turkey are eligible for this scholarship, see the Turkish Ministry of Education website https://meb.gov.tr/ for more information.

University of Liverpool Commonwealth Postgraduate Bursary

  • International students
  • Antigua and Barbuda
  • Australia
  • Bangladesh
  • Barbados
  • Belize
  • Brunei
  • Canada
  • Cyprus
  • Dominica
  • Ghana
  • Grenada
  • Guyana
  • India
  • Jamaica
  • Kenya
  • Malaysia
  • Mauritius
  • New Zealand
  • Nigeria
  • Pakistan
  • Saint Kitts and Nevis
  • Saint Lucia
  • Saint Vincent and The Grenadines
  • Singapore
  • South Africa
  • Sri Lanka
  • Tanzania
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • Uganda

The University of Liverpool Commonwealth Postgraduate Bursary fee reduction for students from Commonwealth countries new to studying at the University of Liverpool on master’s programmes.

University of Liverpool Graduate Association Hong Kong & Tung Postgraduate Scholarships

  • International students
  • China
  • Hong Kong

The University is able to offer competitive scholarships for both postgraduate taught master’s and research programmes.

University of Liverpool Humanitarian Scholarships for Masters Programmes

  • International students

The three awards available cover full tuition fees, visas and support for accommodation and living expenses.

This scholarship is open to support people who have recognised status as either refugees or are under humanitarian protection under the 1951 Refugee Convention. This status must be held outside of the UK.

The scholarship is open for all postgraduate-taught programmes, excluding medicine, dentistry, veterinary and nursing.

University of Liverpool International College (UoLIC) Excellence Scholarship

  • International students

The University of Liverpool will award five University of Liverpool International College students, who achieve the highest academic excellence (minimum 75%) in their UoLIC Pre-Master’s programme, the prestigious UoLIC Excellence scholarship.

University of Liverpool International College (UoLIC) Impact Progression Scholarship

  • International students

University of Liverpool International College recipients of the Kaplan awards will receive the £3,000 Progression Impact Scholarship, deducted from first-year tuition fees, on successful progression to their UoL degree programme.

To be eligible for our Impact Progression Scholarships, students must apply for one of the Kaplan Impact Scholarships demonstrating their commitment to making an impact across issues of importance to the University and Kaplan. Themes include:

Sustainability
Women in STEM
Community
Career Focus (Employability)

Vice-Chancellor’s International Attainment Scholarship

  • International students

Open to all new international students starting a one-year full-time postgraduate master’s programme in September 2023 who:

  • Achieve a UK first-class undergraduate degree award or equivalent qualification as defined by the University of Liverpool (click here for a list of equivalent qualifications) are studying at the Liverpool campus.

Vice-Chancellor’s International Attainment Scholarship for China

  • International students
  • China

Details are:
1 (one) Full scholarship
2 (two) £10,000 scholarships
5 (five) £5,000 scholarships
10 (ten) £1,000 scholarships
All scholarships will be awarded after the formal registration at the University and will take the form of a fee waiver.

Please note: This scholarship cannot be combined with any other scholarships or bursaries provided by the University.

Entry requirements

The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.

My qualifications are from: United Kingdom.

Your qualification Requirements

About our typical entry requirements

Postgraduate entry requirements

You will normally need a 2:1 honours degree or above in a relevant field of study. For example, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Interior Design, Civil/Structural Engineering, Urban Design, Building, Computing, Project Management, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Architectural Engineering, Architectural Technology, Design Management, Building Surveying or Facility/Asset Management. Substantial relevant professional experience will also be considered.

International qualifications

If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, you could be eligible for a Pre-Master’s course. This is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. It’s a specialist preparation course for postgraduate study, and when you pass the Pre-Master’s at the required level with good attendance, you’re guaranteed entry to a University of Liverpool master’s degree.

English language requirements

You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language. International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.

English language qualification Requirements
IELTS C
View our IELTS academic requirements key.
International Baccalaureate

Standard Level (Grade 5)

TOEFL iBT 88 or above with minimum scores in components as follows: Listening and Writing 19, Reading 19, Speaking 20.
INDIA Standard XII 70% or above from Central and Metro State Boards
WAEC C4-6
Hong Kong use of English AS level C

About our entry requirements

Our entry requirements may change from time to time both according to national application trends and the availability of places at Liverpool for particular courses. We review our requirements before the start of the new application cycle each year and publish any changes on our website so that applicants are aware of our typical entry requirements before they submit their application.

We believe in treating applicants as individuals, and in making offers that are appropriate to their personal circumstances and background. Therefore the offer any individual applicant receives may differ slightly from the typical offer quoted on the website.

More about life in Liverpool

Discover more about the city and University.

Why study at Liverpool? Victoria Gallery & Museum

Why Liverpool?

Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.

Accommodation Postgraduate students walking through the campus.

Accommodation

To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.

Fees and Finance Image of the outside of the Management School building

Fees and Finance

Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.

Changes to Building Information Modelling and Digital Transformation MSc

See what updates we've made to this course since it was published. We document changes to information such as course content, entry requirements and how you'll be taught.

23 March 2023: New postgraduate taught course pages

New course pages launched.