Advanced Concrete Technology

At the start of the programme, in the September of your first year, you are invited to attend an induction event over two or three days at the University of Leeds. While attendance is not compulsory, it is highly recommended. This event gives you the chance to meet fellow students on your course and talk to tutors about course content, learning and assessment methods and what’s expected of you as a part-time student.

You’ll also have the chance to meet students who have completed the taught component of the MSc, and you’ll gain an insight into the experiences of those who have graduated from this course. There is also the opportunity to meet representatives from the Institute of Concrete Technology and learn how the course matches on to their professional requirements.

From there you’ll study four modules spread over the next two years covering different aspects of concrete technology such the constituent materials of concrete, thermal movements, strength development, fire resistance, life cycle costing, formwork and sustainability. You’ll work on a series of group and individual projects online to apply your knowledge and develop your skills.

If you undertake the MSc, you will have an opportunity to carry out independent research on a contemporary topic that is relevant to the construction industry in Year 3. This will enable you to use the scientific knowledge gained during the taught modules, apply it to a more contextual situation and present the outcome of the research in a comprehensive technical report.

Want to find out more about your modules?
Take a look at our Advanced Concrete Technology module descriptions for more detail on what you will study.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Modules Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Constituent Materials of Concrete 30 credits
• Cement and Concrete Properties 30 credits

Year 2

Compulsory modules

• Testing, Quality Assurance, Repair and Maintenance of Concrete Structures 30 credits
• Concrete Production, Processes, Applications and Construction Practice 30 credits

Year 3

Compulsory modules

• Independent Research Project 60 credits

For more information on typical modules, read Advanced Concrete Technology MSc(Eng) in the course catalogue

Learning and teaching

The four taught modules each run over a semester period and are taught using a range of online distance learning methods. Short pre-recorded lectures will introduce each topic, and you’ll then learn through group assignments conducted online. You’ll also have access to the reference books and other consultation documents you need through the programme portal and our library’s online resources.

Assessment

Each module contains a mixture of group and individual assessment; with two compulsory, formative pieces of coursework and two summative, individual assignments completed at different stages of the module. These will evaluate your problem-solving skills as well as the breadth and depth of your understanding of the topics covered.