phd construction law

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• How to Apply

Ph.D. in Construction Science

The Ph.D. in Construction Science program at Texas A&M uses scientific methods, emerging technologies, and advanced management theories to address complex construction problems. Your discoveries can improve the safety, productivity, and efficiency of the construction industry. 

You’ll develop expertise in the research process and its application to construction, project management, and sustainability issues that occur throughout the life cycle of construction projects. Using creativity and rigorous quantitative and qualitative methodologies, you’ll conduct high-impact, transformative research that will benefit the construction industry and ultimately human civilization.

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About the Program

Our Ph.D. in Construction Science is the first program of its kind in the state of Texas and one of the largest in the country, with the most diverse range of research topics available. Approximately 6–8 students are admitted per year.

Our program prepares interdisciplinary scientists ready to solve complex construction problems. Through high-impact research, our program creates new knowledge to advance the industry.

Concentration Areas

• Construction management
• Smart construction
• Sustainability in construction

Our Ph.D. program meets the growing demand for doctoral-level construction professionals in industry and academia. Our graduates are poised to become:

• Construction Scientists who carry out effective research in science and technology
• Project Managers with advanced business skills needed to be practical leaders in construction and related industries
• Construction Educators with interdisciplinary knowledge prepared to educate the constructors of tomorrow

The Ph.D. requires 60 credit hours for a M.S. degree holder. Students entering the Ph.D. program with only a baccalaureate degree will take an additional 30 hours of coursework.

• 14 credits of fundamental courses
• 6 credits of research methods courses
• 9 credits of courses in a concentration area
• 9 credits of free electives that support the student’s research activities (18 credits for students entering with a baccalaureate degree)
• 18+ credits in variable research courses while working on your dissertation
• Up to 3 credits for an industry internship

Students will be allowed to transfer up to 12 credit hours from other institutions. A maximum of nine undergraduate credit hours from 300 and 400 level courses may be allowed to count toward the coursework requirements with the approval of your Ph.D. committee.

FAQ about the Ph.D. program

You will work with our tenured or tenure-track faculty members in the construction science department. We encourage you to learn more about our faculty’s research activities that may be aligned with your research interest and career goals by reviewing their biographies.

A tenured or tenure-track faculty member in the Department of Construction Science can serve as the chair of your doctoral committee. Your committee chair should have closely aligned research experience to your research interests.

Texas A&M University requires four members to form a doctoral committee. At least one of them should be from outside of the department you belong to. All four committee members are expected to be familiar with your Ph.D. research topic and have some expertise to provide you with useful guidance to help you complete your Ph.D. research.

All admitted students to our Ph.D. program will receive full financial support that covers tuition for 9 credit hours a semester, health insurance, and a monthly stipend. Some also cover fees. Assistantships may continue until the student completes his/her Ph.D. program, contingent upon satisfactory performance.

For a better understanding of your total cost of attendance, please visit the Texas A&M University  cost and tuition rates webpage . This webpage will provide you with an opportunity to review estimated cost of attendance information for undergraduate, graduate and professional students, as well as other resources such as the tuition calculator and billing and fee explanations.

Supported from the Start

You’ll be mentored by a faculty member from the start of your program. Paired based on similar research interests, you’ll often work alongside each other on research that our faculty are engaged in. Most of our faculty are internationally recognized scholars and researchers with a strong track record of high impact research. Most research projects are externally funded and they are used to financially support you from the start of your Ph.D. program along with other assistantships and scholarships available.

Preparing for the Ph.D. Program

Students must have a master’s degree or a bachelor’s degree before beginning the Ph.D. program. Students with only a bachelor’s degree will have to take an additional 30 credit hours.

FAQ about preparing for the program

Our Ph.D. program is highly competitive with a large number of applications from all around the world every year. Successful Ph.D. applicants typically show:

• Strong self-motivation to pursue a Ph.D. degree in our department
• Strong academic achievement record and/or industry experience
• Critical thinking skills
• Ability to take independent initiative and action to complete tasks
• Ability to logically articulate work processes involved and results

Some faculty members may require specific education background, experience, and/or skill sets of applicants to be considered for financial assistantships.

• Ph.D. applicants go through a two-tiered acceptance process.

In the first tier, prospective students demonstrate that they have the relevant credentials. To do this, you should submit your application and all supporting documents by the application deadline.

Applicants who have the relevant experience then must attract a mentor. Faculty review the applications and look for good matches based on research interests.

Six to eight individuals are chosen and admitted into the program.

It is not a requirement but it is generally recommended that you contact individual faculty members by email to see whether they would be interested in your academic background, experience, skill sets, research interest, and career goals before and/or after submitting your application. Individual faculty play a significant role in determining which students are accepted into our Ph.D. program.

Submit your application at Texas A&M GradCas along with a non-refundable application fee. The fee may be waived only in exceptional cases for low-income applicants and McNair Scholars.

Your application should include the following:

• Official transcripts from all colleges or universities you have attended
• Required test scores (GRE or GMAT)
• 3 letters of recommendation (academic references preferred)
• Statement of Purpose essay
• Résumé or Curriculum Vitae

Read more about the Ph.D. in Construction Science application requirements

The application deadline for fall admission is January 15 . All applications received by this date will be reviewed for admission and considered for scholarships offered by the School of Architecture and departmental funding. Applications received after this date will be reviewed for admission and considered for funding as space and funds allow, including Aggie Priority applications.

Doctoral students are typically funded either through externally funded grants (from National Science Foundation, Construction Industry Institute, etc.) or through departmental assistantships. University fellowships are also available for exceptional candidates.

Assistantships typically provide tuition for 9 credit hours, health insurance, and a monthly stipend. Some also cover fees. Assistantships may continue until you complete your Ph.D. program contingent upon satisfactory performance. Work assignments include both research and teaching opportunities. International and domestic students receiving financial assistance are eligible for in-state tuition.

For more information about the Ph.D. in Construction Science program, please contact David Jeong , Ph.D. Program Coordinator, at [email protected] .

Questions about application requirements and process can be directed to Liz Smith at [email protected] .

Helpful Resources

Computer requirements, innovations in construction.

Our department’s diverse research portfolio tackles real-world problems through convergent research and scholarly activity. Our work is at the intersection of the built environment, enabling technologies and stakeholder needs.

Research in the Department of Construction Science

Coordinated JD/PhD Program

Harvard Law School and the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

The Coordinated JD/PhD Program is designed for students interested in completing interdisciplinary work at Harvard University and is founded on the belief that students’ legal studies and their arts and sciences graduate studies can be mutually enriched through this pursuit. Students completing the coordinated program receive a JD from Harvard Law School (HLS) and a PhD from the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences  (Harvard Griffin GSAS). It is expected that these students will be strong candidates for teaching posts at law schools and in arts and sciences programs, as well as for other positions in law and academia. Prospective students interested in the coordinated program may reach out to  HLS J.D. Admissions  and the  Harvard Griffin GSAS Office of Admissions  to learn more. Current and admitted students interested in the coordinated program are encouraged to contact  April Pettit , in the Office of Academic Affairs at HLS for questions about the JD program, or  Dan Volchok , Assistant Dean of Student Success at Harvard Griffin GSAS for questions about the PhD programs.

Prospective students must separately apply to and be admitted to both HLS and a Harvard Griffin GSAS PhD program in order to participate in the coordinated JD/PhD program.

• Students enrolled in HLS, but not yet admitted to Harvard Griffin GSAS, must apply to Harvard Griffin GSAS no later than the 2L year, meeting the Harvard Griffin GSAS application deadline for matriculation the following year.
• Students enrolled in Harvard Griffin GSAS, but not yet admitted to HLS, should apply to HLS no later than the G3 year, meeting the HLS application deadline for matriculation the following year.
• Please see below for details about participation in the coordinated program for Harvard Griffin GSAS students who apply and are admitted to HLS after the G3 year.

Once admitted to both schools, students must submit a proposed Plan of Study to the coordinated program no later than October 1 of the academic year following admission to both schools. Students should submit the Plan of Study to April Pettit in the Office of Academic Affairs at HLS.

Please note: Harvard Griffin GSAS students who apply to and are admitted to HLS after the G3 year at Harvard Griffin GSAS must then separately apply to the coordinated program. The application to the coordinated program should include (1) a statement detailing the way in which the student plans to integrate his or her legal studies with his or her graduate studies including how work done at HLS will inform the dissertation work and vice versa; and (2) a letter of support from the primary Harvard Griffin GSAS advisor; and (3) the Plan of Study.

The JD/PhD committee will review the applications to determine admission to the coordinated program.

Students will be registered in only one School during any given semester/term. Pursuant to ABA rules, students must  complete all requirements for the JD degree within seven years of the date they first enroll in HLS ; they may graduate from HLS before completing the PhD. Students must have satisfactorily completed at least 16 half courses in their Harvard Griffin GSAS department to receive the PhD. Students in the coordinated program will have two primary faculty advisors, one at HLS and one at Harvard Griffin GSAS, who will jointly advise students.

Students will be expected to complete the first-year program, three upper-level fall or spring semesters, and two winter terms at HLS, for a total of five fall and spring semesters and three winter terms. In lieu of the sixth HLS semester generally required of JD students, students in the coordinated program may take a semester at Harvard Griffin GSAS, completing courses or dissertation work pre-approved by HLS, and equivalent to at least 10 HLS credits. This Harvard Griffin GSAS semester may be taken only after a student has matriculated at HLS and completed their entire first year of study there. Students and their faculty advisors will determine the most appropriate sequencing for each student’s course of study, keeping in mind the HLS course, credit, and residency requirements for this program.

Course and Credit Requirements

First-year program.

The first year at HLS consists of (1) Civil Procedure, Constitutional Law, Contracts, Criminal Law, Legislation and Regulation, Property, and Torts; (2) First-year Legal Research and Writing; (3) January Experiential Term; and (4) a spring upper-level elective at HLS of a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 4 classroom credits.

Upper-Level Years

Credit and residency requirements.

Students must earn no fewer than 52 credits beyond the first year, including 36 HLS classroom credits. Classroom credits include those connected to courses, seminars and reading groups, but not writing or clinical credits. The 36 required classroom credits also include the required minimum of two credits to satisfy the Professional Responsibility Requirement and credits from the required winter terms (provided that the course chosen offers classroom credits). Of the remaining 16 required HLS credits, a maximum of ten are earned through courses or tutorials taken in Harvard Griffin GSAS and/or for dissertation writing (see below). Note that students must have their advisor’s approval before engaging in a semester of Harvard Griffin GSAS dissertation writing that is expected to count toward the HLS credit requirements . The remaining six required HLS credits may be earned in classroom, writing or clinical courses.

While at HLS, students must be enrolled in a minimum of ten total credits each semester in HLS or Harvard Griffin GSAS, with no fewer than eight of these being HLS classroom credits toward the requirement of 36 HLS classroom credits.

Winter Term Requirement

Students also must enroll in the HLS winter term two times during their upper-level years in the program. Each of the winter terms must follow a fall term enrollment or precede a spring term enrollment at HLS. Students may register for a course of two or three credits. JD/PhD students will be permitted to spend one of the winter terms in the HLS Winter Writing Program, provided they are engaged in written work for HLS credit according to the rules of that program.

Written Work Requirement

JD/PhD students must complete the JD Written Work Requirement. Students are permitted to satisfy the requirement with a portion of their dissertation, provided this work meets HLS standards for written work. However, any portion of the dissertation counted toward the JD Written Work Requirement cannot also be used as part of the 10 HLS-equivalent credits earned during a student’s Harvard Griffin GSAS semester. Further information about the J.D. Written Work Requirement and the Winter Term Writing Program is available from the HLS Registrar’s Office .

Pro Bono Requirement

JD/PhD students must complete the  HLS Pro Bono Requirement  of 50 hours of public service.

Residency Requirement

A minimum of two years of full-time study in residence is required for all PhD programs in the Harvard Griffin GSAS. During the period of registration at HLS, coordinated JD/PhD students will have “study-at-another-Harvard-school” status in Harvard Griffin GSAS.

Structure of Academic Work

Students will ordinarily be enrolled for at least four years (8 terms) in Harvard Griffin GSAS. They must complete at least 16 half courses to receive their PhD. Students may cross-register for a limited number of Harvard Griffin GSAS courses during their upper-level terms at HLS. Depending on the Harvard Griffin GSAS department, these courses may count toward the PhD. However, JD/PhD students may count a maximum of 10 credits from Harvard Griffin GSAS coursework or dissertation writing toward the JD. Therefore, students planning to spend a semester enrolled at Harvard Griffin GSAS taking courses or writing the dissertation for which they will earn 10 HLS credits may not also count cross-registered Harvard Griffin GSAS courses toward the JD.

General Examinations

In most departments, once having completed the required coursework, students must pass a general examination or other preliminary or qualifying examinations before undertaking independent research on a dissertation. Normally, when the nature of the field and previous preparation permit, students should pass these examinations by the end of the second year of full-time academic residence.

PhD Dissertation

The student’s dissertation prospectus must be approved by the department. A student who wishes to present as a dissertation a published article, series of articles, book or other document, or a manuscript that has been accepted for publication, must have the approval of the department concerned. In no case, however, may a dissertation be presented that has already been submitted toward another degree, either at Harvard or elsewhere. The Dissertation Acceptance Certificate must be signed by at least three readers approved by the student’s department, two of whom must be members of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS). FAS emeriti (including research professors) and faculty members from other schools at Harvard who hold appointments on GSAS degree committees are authorized to sign the Dissertation Acceptance Certificates as FAS members. GSAS strongly recommends that the chair of the dissertation committee be a member of FAS. The third reader may be a member of the HLS faculty.

Requirement of Satisfactory Status

Continuous registration, a satisfactory grade record, and evidence that satisfactory progress is being made toward the degree are required of all candidates for graduate degrees offered by FAS. All students in Harvard Griffin GSAS must be making satisfactory progress in order to be eligible for any type of financial aid and teaching. The following five provisions are the general definition of satisfactory progress during registration in Harvard Griffin GSAS:

• During the first two years of graduate study any student who has completed expected requirements is considered to be making satisfactory progress.
• In each of the first two years, a student must have achieved the minimum grade-point average required by the faculty, a B average. (see Harvard Griffin GSAS Policies: Grade and Examination Requirements ).
• By the end of the third year, a student must have passed general examinations or the departmental equivalent.
• By the end of the fourth year, a student must have obtained approval of a dissertation prospectus or its departmental equivalent.
• By the end of the fifth year and each subsequent year during which a student is allowed to register, they must have produced at least one acceptable chapter of the dissertation.

For more information about satisfactory progress, please see Harvard Griffin GSAS Policies .

Other Requirements

Ordinarily, programs will have a language requirement and an expectation of teaching. Students should consult with their Harvard Griffin GSAS departments for more information about these requirements.

There are a number of possible academic schedules for students pursuing both degrees. Three sequences are outlined below, but students may propose alternative sequences. In considering their courses of study, students should be aware that their financial aid packages might be affected at the school in which they defer enrollment.

Year 1: HLS Year 2: Harvard Griffin GSAS Year 3: Harvard Griffin GSAS Year 4: HLS Year 5: 1st term, HLS Year 5: 2nd term, Harvard Griffin GSAS (earning the equivalent of 10 HLS credits in dissertation work) Following year(s): Harvard Griffin GSAS until completion of dissertation

Year 1: Harvard Griffin GSAS Year 2: Harvard Griffin GSAS Year 3: HLS Year 4: Harvard Griffin GSAS Year 5: HLS Year 6: 1st term, HLS Year 6: 2nd term, Harvard Griffin GSAS (earning the equivalent of 10 HLS credits in dissertation work) Following year(s): Harvard Griffin GSAS until completion of dissertation

Year 1: HLS Year 2: HLS Year 3: Harvard Griffin GSAS Year 4: Harvard Griffin GSAS Year 5: 1st term, HLS Year 5: 2nd term, Harvard Griffin GSAS (earning the equivalent of 10 HLS credits in dissertation work) Following year(s): Harvard Griffin GSAS until completion of dissertation

Updated Plans of Study

By October 1 each year, current JD/PhD students should submit an updated Plan of Study to April Pettit, in the HLS Office of Academic Affairs.

Other Academic Information

Faculty advising.

Students in the program will have primary faculty advisors at both HLS and at Harvard Griffin GSAS. If possible, HLS faculty advisors should be selected before the completion of the 2L year. The HLS faculty advisor must sign off on any dissertation writing a student expects to use for JD credit. In some Harvard Griffin GSAS departments, the director of graduate studies serves as the faculty advisor during the first two years of study. Faculty advisors will supervise students’ academic work, advise students on their courses of study and on specific classes appropriate for their PhD work, and approve the courses of study for their students on an annual basis. If appropriate, the HLS advisor will be the third reader on the student’s dissertation committee, with at least two readers required to be members of FAS.

Leaving the JD/PhD Program

If a student fails to make adequate progress toward the PhD, the student’s faculty advisors will be permitted to withdraw the student from the program. In such cases, in order to receive the JD degree, a student will still need to meet the graduation and credit requirements for the JD degree.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Harvard law school.

Students must pay five semesters of full tuition. Students will be eligible for HLS financial aid for all semesters during which they pay tuition to HLS. For more information on Financial Aid, visit the Student Financial Services Financial Aid webpage .

Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

The minimum financial requirement for the PhD is at least four terms of full tuition followed by two years of reduced tuition and a facilities fee unless the degree is completed in less than four years. The financial aid awarded upon admission to the PhD program is available during those terms in which the student is enrolled in Harvard Griffin GSAS. Students should refer to their notice of financial support provided by their department upon admission to Harvard Griffin GSAS. Students should consult with their GSAS departments for more information.

Administrative Information

The HLS Registrar’s Office, the FAS Registrar’s Office, the GSAS Assistant Dean of Student Success, the HLS Associate Director of Academic Affairs, and the appropriate financial aid officers, will coordinate on students’ registration status and updated plans of study.

Housing and Student Life

GSAS and HLS will work together to ensure that the student services offered by both Schools are available to JD/PhD students during all their years in the Coordinated Program, including career and counseling offices, financial aid offices, student centers, and alumni offices. Students in the coordinated program will have email accounts at both schools throughout the program. Disability services and visa requirements will be coordinated on a case-by-case basis by the HLS Dean of Students and Registrar and by the Harvard Griffin GSAS Assistant Dean for Student Success. Students may apply for housing through either School for the years in which they are enrolled for at least one semester/term at both Schools. In all other years, students must apply for housing to the School in which they are enrolled.

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Master of Laws

Llm construction law.

A Master of Laws (LLM) in Construction Law, offered by The University of Law, is a postgraduate degree designed for law and non-law graduates to enhance your academic legal knowledge. This internationally recognised Master’s course will give you the skills to enhance or pursue a career as a business owner, legal specialist, shipping specialist and maritime governance.

Entry requirements

Minimum second-class honours degree

Course requirements ➔

Next start date

September 2024, study online.

If you’re looking for a more flexible approach to your studies, why not consider our online study option?

The law in context

Gain essential in-depth knowledge and insight in your chosen area of law and understand the importance of legal rules as they are applied in the real world.

Our Employment Stats

• 95% of postgraduate students in employment were in highly skilled employment 15 months after graduating (2020/21 Graduate Outcomes data). Contains HESA Data: Copyright Jisc 2022.

Taught by subject experts

Taught by a combination of former and current practitioners, as well as research and teaching academics who are focused on legal practice, not just theory.

Course Details

The LLM Construction Law is an innovative, flexible programme that will provide you with the opportunity to explore issues surrounding Construction Law. Students will explore issues such as construction contracts; vicarious performance and insolvency; FIDIC (International) Conditions Silver Book; Engineering and Construction Contract (NEC); and Dispute Resolution. On completion of the course, you will be able to demonstrate the ability to conduct and evaluate research and use your learnings to offer resolutions that best reflect the situation.

When you study the LLM Construction Law with us you will:

• Be taught by our expert lecturers , including subject matter specialists, former and current practitioners, and research and teaching focused academics. 
• Learn about the context within which construction law operates and interplays with other areas such as economics and politics.
• Research and critically evaluate the key theories, concepts and principles of construction law as applied in the UK.
• Benefit from strategic partnerships with firms, regulators and accreditation bodies, which inform our programme development.
• Improve your employability by gaining important transferable skills and mapping your career with our careers team.
• Strengthen your network - connect with other students, faculty and industry professionals on an international scale, and seek out opportunities for future placements and job opportunities.
• Increase your earning potential - the 2022 Graduate Labour Market Statistics found that postgraduates on average earn £6,500 more than their graduate counterparts.
• Get ahead of the competition - gain in-depth knowledge of your topic of interest and become a subject expert, which will provide you with a competitive edge in the job market.
• Enjoy flexibility - We understand that everyone’s circumstances are different. That’s why we offer a wide range of study modes (full-time, part-time, on campus, online) across our courses to provide you with the greatest choice and flexibility you need to succeed in your studies. 
• Prepare for the future of Legal Technology – study modules in legal technology and gain insight into this emerging area of law.

Course Structure

Terms 1 & 2 (full-time) or 1-4 (part-time).

In addition to a general induction to the programme, there is a two-week induction covering the Key Principles of the English Legal System. This is compulsory for non-law students, but also open to students wanting a refresher in the fundamentals of the law of England and Wales. This would be useful for any student who has taken a considerable break from legal education.

Compulsory modules include:

• Construction Law
• Research Methods Training to help you prepare for your dissertation

You may then choose three* from the list of elective modules which includes modules such as:

• International Commercial Law
• International Trade Law
• Maritime Law

View the elective module guide

*All elective modules are subject to availability.

Term 3 (full-time) or 5 & 6 (part-time)

Dissertation in Construction Law.

Course Start Dates

• Full-time: London Moorgate
• Part-time: London Moorgate

February 2025

Study LLM Construction Law Online starting September 2024 or February 2025

Make an Enquiry

Course requirements.

The course demands show you the requirements, prior knowledge and commitments our course will involve.

Find out more ➔

Study Online

If you’re looking for the perfect combination of a flexible study programme to fit around your other commitments together with the benefit of our expertise, experience and employability focus, why not consider our online study option?

LLM Construction Law Online ➔

open days Upcoming Dates

Course Information

• Course dates

With so many options for studying this course, you can be sure to find a start date and study option to suit your needs.

Modules are assessed by a three hour unseen written examination or 4,500 word coursework assignment.

All assessments are conducted online.

The dissertation module will be assessed by submission of a thesis (15,000 words), and provides an opportunity for sustained, in-depth and intensive investigation into, and reflection upon, a specialist area of International Construction Law.

The course has an innovatively flexible structure, with specific assessments that are conducive to effective learning.

The approach to learning and teaching on the Master of Laws programmes is predominantly learner-centred. Each taught module is divided into a number of Units which are presented using the Prepare, Engage, Consolidate approach.

Prepare : this represents all the work the student needs to complete before attending the relevant workshop. Traditional lecture content will be presented in short bite-sized segments of approximately 10 minutes to better engage the modern student. Guided independent research and reading will be expected as part of a student’s preparation.

Engage: this represents the interactive element of the Unit. This could be a face to face workshop, a synchronous online workshop or an asynchronous online activity.

Consolidate: this represents the final part of the Unit and can be used by students to check their understanding of the Unit immediately after their Engage activity or as part of their revision for the module or both.

Employability We Set You Up For Success

We care about your career, which is why we offer support with job applications and other work experience opportunities as soon as you accept your place.

Find a career that suits you

Fees and applying.

• How to Apply
• Fees and Funding
• International

You can apply for this course directly with the University.

This course cannot be chosen to study alongside our Legal Practice Course (LPC). For more information on the choice of Master's to study alongside our LPC, please visit the LPC page.

Please note: Our Master of Laws (LLM) programmes are not a direct route to qualification as a Barrister or Solicitor in the UK.

2024/25 Course Fee (for courses starting on or after 1 July 2024)

Domestic students

London: £13,450

Outside of London: £11,900

Non-domestic students

London: £18,500 (or £15,500 including a £3,000 International Bursary*)

Outside of London: £17,000 (or £14,500 including a £2,500 International Bursary*)

* Terms and Conditions apply

By studying a Master's degree you could be eligible for a Postgraduate Loan .

We also have a range of scholarships and bursaries available which make studying with us more affordable than ever.

If you’re a ULaw alumnus, you may be eligible to receive our £1000 Academic Master's Alumni Discount .

We have students from over 120 different countries throughout our campuses, with a dedicated team to help international students.

If you are an international student and are coming to the UK to study, then you must apply to the Home Office for a visa. In most cases you will need to obtain a Student Route visa . In order to apply for this visa you must be sponsored by an education provider which is licensed by the UK Home Office.

The Home Office has also introduced a Graduate Work visa which allows Graduates to work flexibly, switch jobs and develop their career in the UK for 2 years post completion of a UK degree. The Graduate route is an unsponsored visa, meaning students will not need a job offer to apply for this visa.

Please note that the University does not currently provide visa sponsorship to students for part-time study. We also cannot sponsor students for online courses due to Home Office regulations.

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Construction Law and Arbitration

Robert Gordon University offers an online LLM/MSc Construction Law and Arbitration course which provides practical, thorough and valuable teaching in the fast moving and highly specialist disciplines of construction law, construction adjudication and/or arbitration (depending on choice of route).

This course from Robert Gordon University is for legal professionals, and others with an interest in the legal issues surrounding construction claims, contracting, project management and surveying. It will equip you with in-depth knowledge of key topics in the fields of construction law and dispute resolution processes, providing specific focus on those processes which run alongside traditional litigation.

Mode of Attendance

• Online Learning

Mode of Study

Course Length

With this Construction Law and Arbitration postgraduate degree you will be introduced to the key foundational knowledge of law and develop your knowledge and understanding on law and procedure around either arbitration or adjudication (depending on choice of route).

You will develop advanced knowledge and understanding of specialist aspects of Construction Law. Depending on your chosen study route, you may balance construction law modules with adjudication modules.

You can choose to either write a 15,000 word dissertation or take a number of alternative options which will help broaden your experience and allow you to apply your legal knowledge in practice. Options include answering a case study, undertaking a research project, participating in an international mooting competition or studying through taught modules. 

Modules and delivery order may change for operational purposes. The University regularly reviews its courses. Course content and structure may change over time. See our  course and module disclaimer  for more information. 

Learning Methods

This part time Construction Law and Arbitration course is taught fully online, allowing you to study from any location and is designed to fit in around your work commitments.

Teaching will be delivered through the University's online virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle , allowing you to interact with tutors and fellow students around the world. You will be taught and supported by experienced industry professionals and academics who will recreate the same challenging interactive format of the on-campus courses for those studying at a distance.

Online learning allows for a diverse range of teaching and learning methods to be employed, and all supported by a dedicated technical team. The use of diverse and hi-tech learning methods promises the student a stimulating, interactive and informative learning experience.

Activity Summary

• Online activities (including online Forum Participation) - up to 30 students per group, 5-10 hours per week
• Independent Study, 5-10 hours per week

How long is a Construction Law and Arbitration course?

The Construction Law and Arbitration MSc can be successfully completed in 3 years.

Independent Study

It is suggested that you read the module materials and recommended additional readings on a weekly basis, with regular online interaction with students and tutors in the electronic forums and online activities being strongly encouraged. Written materials are increasingly supported with other forms of delivery.

Staff Delivering on this Course

You will be taught and supported by a teaching team which contains a balance of experienced industry professionals and high quality academic staff who will help create a challenging interactive environment for your study.

Staff on this course could also include guest lecturers, industry experts, librarians and Postgraduate Research students.

All our academic staff are encouraged to work towards a Higher Education Academy Fellowship. This is a professional recognition of an individuals practice, impact and leadership of teaching and learning.

Typically students are assessed over a three year period:

• 1 written exam, typically for 3 - 4  hours
• 3 written assignments, including scenario questions and essays
• 2 set exercises
• 1 oral assessment
• 1 written exam (Adjudication & Arbitration route) 
• 4 written assignments, including scenario questions and essays

Depends on which route is taken:

• 1  written assignments, including scenario questions and essays (taught module route)
• 1 report (research report route) 
• 1 dissertation (dissertation route)
• 1 project outputs (case study route)
• 11 group critiques (taught module route) 

We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all written exams, coursework and practical exams.

Academic Support

The Inclusion Centre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia and other specific learning differences. Applicants are encouraged to arrange a pre-entry visit to discuss any concerns and to view the facilities.

Online Learning & Support

All undergraduate and postgraduate students, whether you are learning on campus or by online learning, benefit from using our collaborative virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle. You will be provided with 24/7 online access to your learning material and resources, along with the ability to interact with your class members and tutors for discussion and support.

Study Skills Support

The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in:

• Academic writing
• Study skills (note taking, exam techniques, time management, presentation)
• Maths and statistics
• English language
• Information technology support

Library Support

The Library offers support for your course, including the books, eBooks, and journals you will need. We also offer online reading lists for many modules, workshops and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing, and much more.

Job Prospects

The nature of the course allows you to use the skills and knowledge obtained to steer your career advancement.

In an increasingly competitive jobs market, practitioners equipped with both understanding of commercially relevant aspects of law and strong professional skills are highly sought after.  The programme provides the opportunity for lawyers to acquire specialist knowledge while non-lawyers are assisted in the transition into specialist areas that complement their existing experience in business and industry.

What is needed for a Master in Construction Law and Arbitration degree?

• Applicants will normally hold a 2:2 undergraduate honours degree or its equivalent in Architecture, Law, Surveying, an Engineering discipline, Construction Project Management or associated Business.
• Applicants with relevant work experience will be considered on a case by case basis.

English Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should have an IELTS of 6.5 overall, with no component lower than 5.5, or an equivalent.

We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:

Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact [email protected]  for further information.

Academic Year 2024-2025

Scottish students, rest of uk students, eu students, international students, additional costs.

• Students who do not wish to come to Aberdeen to sit the exam can arrange to take it at an appropriate venue (such as a British Council) but at their own cost.

Some other costs are not included in the course fees:

• The cost of books that you may wish to purchase.
• Costs associated with your placement / study abroad
• Accommodation and Living Costs

Alumni Discount

Robert Gordon University is delighted to offer a 20% loyalty discount on course fees for all alumni who have graduated from RGU.

Student Funding

Postgraduate students will normally make their own arrangements for payment of fees. However, there are a limited number of SAAS funded places on certain postgraduate courses.

Scholarships and Financial Awards

You may qualify for a scholarship or financial award:

For new intakes, course fees are reviewed and published annually for each mode of delivery. Tuition fees are fixed for the duration of a course at the rate confirmed in the offer letter. For further information:

Any questions?

Get in touch with our Student Admissions Service and we'll do our best to help.

Our facilities for this course

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Construction Law and Arbitration LLM

Robert gordon university, different course options.

• Key information

Course Summary

Tuition fees, entry requirements, similar courses at different universities, key information data source : idp connect, qualification type.

LLM - Master of Laws

Subject areas

Construction Management (General) Building Law & Regulations Construction Arbitration

Course type

Robert Gordon University offers an online LLM Construction Law and Arbitration course which provides practical, thorough and valuable teaching in the fast moving and highly specialist disciplines of construction law, construction adjudication and/or arbitration (depending on choice of route).

This course from Robert Gordon University is for legal professionals, and others with an interest in the legal issues surrounding construction claims, contracting, project management and surveying. It will equip you with in-depth knowledge of key topics in the fields of construction law and dispute resolution processes, providing specific focus on those processes which run alongside traditional litigation.

Typically students are assessed over a three year period

UK fees Course fees for UK students

For this course (per year)

International fees Course fees for EU and international students

Applicants will normally hold a 2:2 undergraduate honours degree or its equivalent in Architecture, Law, Surveying, an Engineering discipline, Construction Project Management or associated Business. Applicants with relevant work experience will be considered on a case by case basis.

Construction Project Management MSc

Bristol, university of the west of england, university of gloucestershire, global business administration (construction project management) mba, university of westminster, london, oxford brookes university.

King's College London Centre of Construction Law and Management

Msc programmes in construction law.

The London MSc programme is the longest running taught part-time programme of its type in the UK; over 1000 lawyers, QSs, engineers, architects and others have successfully completed it. It took more-or-less its present form in 1988, a year after John Uff QC founded the Centre, and remains the Centre’s main teaching activity. It is taught over two years with classes at the Strand Campus, mostly at weekends; it is not a distance-learning programme.

Overseas students may complete the course over a reduced period by combining part-time classes into a full-time programme.

Full details about the London MSc and Diploma programme and about applying to join are available on the King's College website ,  Also contact Susan Hart (tel: +44 (0)20 7848 2643).

PhD Research Degrees

The Centre of Construction Law welcomes those wishing to undertake a research degree under the supervision of the Centre's academic staff. Comprehensive information on the research degree programme can be found in the King's online prospectus .

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Postgraduate MSc

Construction Law and Dispute Resolution

Build your expertise in resolving disputes within construction to help maintain great commercial relationships in the industry.

Course Overview

Institution code

Main location

If you’re a professional working in surveying, construction or a related field, this course, which is recognised by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, will develop your ability to manage disputes efficiently and to resolve them.

As part of your course you’ll:

• Study principles of construction law, approaches to dispute resolution (including arbitration, adjudication and mediation), and construction claims
• Enhance your ability to identify and evaluate appropriate decision-making strategies
• Develop research capability and skills to analyse problems in a professional context
• Undertake all the core modules listed and choose two option modules

CIArB requirements

The structure and content of the teaching on this course meets the examination requirements of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArB) on each of its pathways to membership - Arbitration, International Arbitration and Construction Adjudication - from Associate level through to Membership level.

Industry links The course is supported by a number of local experienced practitioners, including construction solicitors, barristers, arbitrators, adjudicators and mediators many of whom have key offices in Leeds. It is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and also has links with the Society of Construction Law.

Distance learning Delivered via distance learning, you can balance the demands of your course with your everyday commitments, allowing you to keep working while you learn. You’ll be able to study at a time and place to suit you, graduating with a qualification of equal value to one obtained by studying on campus. You’ll also be able to use our Library and access the support of our expert academic staff, Student Hub and Student Wellbeing Team.

LLM qualification This course is also available as a Master of Laws for those who already hold an LLB degree (or equivalent qualification).

Why study Construction Law and Dispute Resolution at Leeds Beckett University...

• Industry experienced expert teaching team
• Chartered Institute of Arbitrators accredited course
• The course is supported by experienced practitioners including construction solicitors, barristers, arbitrators, adjudicators and mediators
• Flexible part-time distance study through our virtual learning environment
• Industry body links through the Society of Construction Law

We regularly review our courses to ensure we are offering you the best educational experience. This course is being reviewed for 2024 entry, therefore the information below is correct for students joining us in 2023/24, but there may be changes for students who wish to join us in 2024/25. These will be confirmed in the course specification made available to new applicants on this page from June 2024.

Everything you need to know

Entry requirements.

All applications should be supported by a reference, either academic or professional; you can download our reference template for completion. .

All applicants should satisfy our University English language requirements .

All applicants should satisfy our English Language requirements . Please note the IELTS requirement for this course are IELTS 7.0 with no skill below 7.0. Further details about acceptable equivalent qualifications can be found on our International Student information pages .

Selection Criteria

We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.

Teaching & Learning

Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through a number of modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to the specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.

Our silver status in the latest Teaching Excellence Framework, reflects our commitment to deliver high-quality teaching, learning and outcomes for our students.

We understand that full-time study does not suit everyone. That’s why we offer courses which give you the opportunity to decide where, when and how you can get involved in learning. Studying a distance learning course offers the convenience and flexibility to make education work for you. Whether you’d like to fit your studies around childcare, develop your skills while working or, quite simply, want to learn from the comfort of your own home, we can help you gain a qualification at a time and pace that suits your lifestyle.

Like our students on campus, you’ll have the same excellent teaching and learning resources, however you’ll find these online instead of a lecture theatre. Not only are all the modules taught online, but you’ll also have access to an online community and more than 140,000 books and journals in our online library.

Technical requirements for distance learning study are detailed in the full guide. Visit our distance learning website  for more information.

Overall workload

Each module on our distance learning courses is individually designed to maximise your learning so study requirements will vary. As a general guideline, you’ll need to allocate around 10 hours per week to complete each module, plus a further five hours for additional reading and assignments. However, this may vary depending on the module. Teaching and learning will be delivered using a range of interactive resources. This typically includes audio and video content, group discussions, reflective exercises, quizzes, online reading and much more. All these resources are delivered through our Virtual Learning Environment and can be accessed at a time and place that suits you.

What you'll learn

Fees & funding hellooo.

Studying part-time gives you the flexibility to learn at your own pace. Because of this, the part-time tuition fees are calculated using credit points. * The tuition fee for students entering in 2024/25 is £56.94 per credit. The total number of credit points for this course is 180. *The fee you pay may differ based on the number of credit points you study.

International 2024. Full Course Tuition Fees.

Studying part-time gives you the flexibility to learn at your own pace. Because of this, the part-time tuition fees are calculated using credit points. * The tuition fee for students entering in 2024/25 is £66.66 per credit. The total number of credit points for this course is 180. *The fee you pay may differ based on the number of credit points you study.

Fees & Funding

For students entering in 2024. Full Course Tuition Fees.

Additional course costs

Tuition fees.

Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.

The following are also included in the cost of your course:

• 24/7 Library and student IT support
• Free wifi via eduroam
• Skills workshops and resources
• Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
• Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
• Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies

In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.

Essential Costs

• You’ll need access to a computer, the internet, and any necessary course software. Visit the course Teaching & Learning 'Modules, Workload & More' section for more details.

Other study-related expenses to consider:  materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.

As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.

This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.

You will have access to networking events, seminars on key sector issues and conferences organised by The Centre for Knowledge Exchange (CKE).

Centre for Knowledge Exchange

Your future in our hands.

School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing Careers Fair Our School holds a Careers Fair which is attended by over 25 major employers from the Civil Engineering, Construction, Architecture and Planning sectors giving you the opportunity to secure graduate roles, placements and part-time employment.

Career Prospects

You will acquire the academic training essential to develop your career in adjudication, arbitration and mediation, or as a dispute resolution or claims consultant. Your course is specifically designed for the construction industry, but many of the dispute resolution skills you develop will be transferable across other industries.

• Construction Solicitor
• Construction Practitioner
• Contract Administrator
• Claims Consultant

Beckett Careers Team

Our careers service is not just there for undergraduates, we support our postgraduate taught and research students too.

Your postgraduate degree will boost your CV and help you stand out from the crowd. Whether you're just starting out on your chosen career path, changing careers or moving to the next level, we can provide you with expert advice and resources to help you take the next steps to achieving your goals.

Your Beckett experience

Keep up to date with the latest from our school

Blog | School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing

What is distance learning.

A great option for flexible learning

Very simply, to study by distance learning means you don't have to be based in Leeds to take one of our courses. Wherever you are and whatever you want to study, it's a great option for flexible learning.

When you choose one of our distance learning courses, you can do just that – study at a distance, at a pace that suits you.

Like our students on campus, you will have the same excellent teaching and learning resources, however you'll find these online instead of in a lecture theatre. Not only are the modules taught online but you will also have access to an online community and more than 140,000 books and journals in our online library.

Our extensive list of distance learning courses means that whether you are from the UK or further afield, changing your career path or looking for that promotion, we have a course that suits your needs.

Starting a new course can be both scary and exciting at the same time, especially if you haven’t studied in an online environment before.

What to expect from a distance learning course

At Leeds Beckett our student support teams will work together to give you the help you need, whenever you need it.

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Take that first step and find out how to apply

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Best Contracts Law Programs

Ranked in 2024, part of Best Law Schools

A law degree in contracts and commercial law covers areas

A law degree in contracts and commercial law covers areas including the sale of goods, services and property; employment contracts; and franchises. The Uniform Commercial Code, which governs contracts and commercial business transactions, is vital to this area of law. These are the top law schools for contracts/commercial law. Each school's score reflects its average rating on a scale from 1 (marginal) to 5 (outstanding), based on a survey of academics at peer institutions. Read the methodology »

Here are the Best Contracts Law Programs

Columbia university, harvard university, university of chicago, stanford university, university of pennsylvania (carey), university of virginia, georgetown university, new york university, university of michigan--ann arbor.

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New York , NY

• # 1 in Contracts/Commercial Law
• # 8 in Best Law Schools

$81,292 (full-time) TUITION AND FEES

4.8 PEER ASSESSMENT SCORE

173 MEDIAN LSAT (FULL-TIME)

The full-time program application fee at the Law School at Columbia University is $85. Its tuition is full-time... Read More »

TUITION AND FEES

$81,292 (full-time)

PEER ASSESSMENT SCORE

Median lsat (full-time).

Cambridge , MA

• # 2 in Contracts/Commercial Law  (tie)
• # 4 in Best Law Schools  (tie)

$75,008 (full-time) TUITION AND FEES

4.7 PEER ASSESSMENT SCORE

174 MEDIAN LSAT (FULL-TIME)

The full-time program application fee at the law school at Harvard University is $85. Its tuition is full-time... Read More »

$75,008 (full-time)

Chicago , IL

• # 3 in Best Law Schools

$77,952 (full-time) TUITION AND FEES

The Law School at University of Chicago has an application deadline of March 1. The full-time program application fee... Read More »

$77,952 (full-time)

Stanford , CA

• # 4 in Contracts/Commercial Law
• # 1 in Best Law Schools  (tie)

N/A TUITION AND FEES

4.6 PEER ASSESSMENT SCORE

The full-time program application fee at the Law School at Stanford University is $85. The student-faculty ratio is... Read More »

• # 5 in Contracts/Commercial Law  (tie)

$76,934 (full-time) TUITION AND FEES

4.5 PEER ASSESSMENT SCORE

172 MEDIAN LSAT (FULL-TIME)

The full-time program application fee at the law school at University of Pennsylvania (Carey) is $80. Its tuition is... Read More »

$76,934 (full-time)

Charlottesville , VA

$71,200 (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES

$74,200 (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES

171 MEDIAN LSAT (FULL-TIME)

The full-time program application fee at the School of Law at University of Virginia is $85. Its tuition is full-time... Read More »

$71,200 (in-state, full-time)

$74,200 (out-of-state, full-time)

Washington , DC

• # 7 in Contracts/Commercial Law  (tie)
• # 14 in Best Law Schools  (tie)

$75,950 (full-time) TUITION AND FEES

4.4 PEER ASSESSMENT SCORE

The full-time program application fee at the Law Center at Georgetown University is $85. The part-time program... Read More »

$75,950 (full-time)

• # 9 in Best Law Schools  (tie)

$80,014 (full-time) TUITION AND FEES

The full-time program application fee at the School of Law at New York University is $85. Its tuition is full-time... Read More »

$80,014 (full-time)

Ann Arbor , MI

$69,584 (in-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES

$72,584 (out-of-state, full-time) TUITION AND FEES

The full-time program application fee at the Law School at University of Michigan--Ann Arbor is $75. Its tuition is... Read More »

$69,584 (in-state, full-time)

$72,584 (out-of-state, full-time)

Yale University

New Haven , CT

$73,865 (full-time) TUITION AND FEES

175 MEDIAN LSAT (FULL-TIME)

The full-time program application fee at the Law School at Yale University is $85. Its tuition is full-time: $73,865... Read More »

$73,865 (full-time)

Construction Law and Practice

School of science, engineering and environment.

Distance Learning

September 2024

In a nutshell

Construction law and practice affects stakeholders working across the international construction sector. Gain the necessary legal knowledge and commercial awareness to perform your current role more effectively, or make the career move into this field, with our MSc Construction Law and Practice degree.

Accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), and delivered exclusively online, our postgraduate qualification is designed to help you examine the responsibilities of employers, contractors and construction professionals together with the problems raised by the complexities of construction, design liability and insurance.

Led by academics and industry practitioners, you will build your knowledge of construction contracts and the law underpinning them, together with a wide range of standard form contracts to assess and manage risk. You will also examine the complex issues arising from the multi-party nature of the construction process, together with the uncertainties that can arise from the passage of time and latent defects.

We also offer this course as  LLM Construction Law and Practice .

Start your study journey

Register for our next Open Day   to learn more about studying Construction Law and speak to the course team

• Examine construction practice from a legal perspective, with detailed consideration of construction contracts, tortious and multi-party liability, insurance, dispute resolution, procurement, and the environment
• Develop the knowledge to conduct and communicate legal analysis with confidence and accuracy in relation to any aspect of mainstream professional construction practice
• Build the skills and capabilities to prepare you for career opportunities with specialist construction law departments or firms

students accepted

Course accreditations

This is for you if...

You want to learn how to promote high quality research in areas of law relating to construction, including a high level of legal analysis

You would like to build on your existing knowledge and experience in order to operate more effectively in areas of construction practice which involve construction law

You want to gain specialist legal knowledge through a flexible study programme, allowing you to balance your work and study

All about the course

Course delivery

Our MSc Construction Law and Practice course is exclusively available to study part-time via distance learning. The course starts each September. We also offer a LLM pathway .  

• The course is delivered using a range of industry-aligned modules. The 180 credit MSc award comprises four taught modules plus a dissertation. The 120-credit PgDip comprises four taught modules. The 60-credit PgCert award comprises two specified taught modules
• During your studies, you will complete one 30-credit taught modules in each trimester for the first sixteen months. In the final two trimesters, you will complete your dissertation worth 60 credits, which is also delivered online and includes tutor engagement and support

Learning experience

Your teaching and learning is delivered using our Collaborate Ultra virtual learning environment, supported by real-time and on-demand interactive sessions. All modules are delivered over a 15 week period, and are assessed entirely by coursework. Module assessment is driven by real-world problems aligned to your workplace or role.

You will develop your construction law knowledge in areas such as contracts, liability and dispute resolution. You will also strengthen your research and analytical skills by completing a dissertation on a construction law topic of your choice. Learn more about the current course modules in the section below.

Course team

The Construction Law and Practice postgraduate course is delivered by an academic team with exceptional research experience and professional connections. The team is part of a global built environment community with prominence in shaping construction industry best practice.

Course leader:  Dr. Paul Tracey

Fundamentals of Construction Law

This module will cover:

• Common law underpinning construction contracts
• Source, rationale and nature of key terms (Scope, cost, quality, time, variation)
• Contract formation
• Implication of terms
• Mistake, frustration, breach, causation and loss

Construction Contracts – Operation and Administration

• Operation and administration of Standard Form Contracts (SFCs)
• Comparison between SFCs
• Consideration of key terms in SFCs
• Role of the Contract Administrator
• Impact of the industry specific legislation on construction contracts

Liability and Complexity in Construction Law

• Legal complexities and commercial risks
• Design liability
• Sub-contracting
• Contribution and contributory negligence

Dispute Resolution – Law and Practice

• Dispute resolution procedures
• Management of dispute resolution procedures
• Statutory adjudication in the UK
• Arbitration
• Decision drafting

Dissertation

This module allows you to develop a research proposal with clear aims and objectives related to your study. The dissertation will typically adopt a black letter law approach, although other methodologies can be used if justifiable. You will undertake critical analysis of existing research and engage in various forms of recognised research in order to produce a sustained, sophisticated, and logical argument in the form of a written dissertation. LLM students complete a distinct LLM dissertation module and will typically have access to legal practitioner supervisors active in industry.

Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.

What will I be doing?

Teaching and learning is delivered remotely online. You will experience our sophisticated online learning environment, supported by intensive tutor support. Weekly online tutorials encourage student participation.  Learning is driven by real-world problems relevant to your workplace and job role.

Our online repository of learning material enables you to undertake self-directed study at your own convenience.  During your studies, you will experience our Collaborate Ultra virtual learning environment, featuring real-time and on-demand access to materials. You will also have access to our multimedia library resources, which include industry journals, databases, and software.

You will be assessed using written coursework and through continuous informal assessment by your tutors.

Dissertation modules delivered online receive extensive tutor support.

The programme provides an excellent foundation from which a career in construction law can be pursued. Perfect for graduates looking to specialise in this unique area of law, while also offering established professionals the opportunity to develop a range of legal skills.

Jonathan Neill

EC Harris, Construction Law and Practice student

The delivery, interactivity and virtually 24/7 support offered on the programme soon dispelled any scepticisim about the web-based nature of it. I would wholeheartedly recommend the course to anyone, something I have already done with a member of my team here in Cairo.

Anastassios Karakatsianis

Regional Contracts Manager (Africa), Archirodon Construction (Overseas) Co S.A.

The distance learning degree enables me to conveniently study alongside full-time employment. There are several advantages to this but in particular I find it very useful in applying course content to actual scenarios. The course is very relevant in this way to my field of work.

Richard Parker

Senior QS Construction Law and Practice student

The weekly online lectures, group work and constant contact with the university resulted in me feeling constantly supported throughout the course. The sense of satisfaction and achievement felt in successfully completing my final dissertation was personally very rewarding, thanks to the team at Salford.

James McManus

Rising to the challenge of a changing world, our postgraduate courses are designed to shape the next generation of urbanists, scientists, engineers, consultants and leaders.

Driven by industry and delivered by supportive programme teams, you can develop the knowledge and skills to take your career potential further.

Energy House

The way UK energy is supplied and consumed is changing fast. Consumers and small businesses will soon be able to generate, store, share, buy and sell their energy as the government encourages the transition to a greener economy.

Through commercial and grant funded research, Salford's world-class Energy House Laboratories help businesses understand how effective their products and services are in lowering consumers’ carbon footprint and reducing energy bills.

INDUSTRY COLLABORATION AND RESEARCH

When you start this degree with Salford, you are also joining a community making a difference in industry, our local region and in our wider society.

Many of our academics and technicians who support your course also deliver collaborative, interdisciplinary, high-impact work in a range of local and global built environment issues and challenges.

Discover how you are part of something bigger.

What about after uni?

Our Construction Law and Practice postgraduate degree course is designed to provide you with formal qualifications for and develop a skill set to succeed in a construction law career.  Applying the legal knowledge you will gain during your studies, you can use this to either enhance your existing role, or use it as a platform to move in a legal remit.

Construction law affects professionals throughout the industry. Typical career roles to consider include working as a claims consultant, commercial manager, dispute resolution specialist or a solicitor.

FURTHER STUDY

You might also choose to take your subject interest further with postgraduate research. Our  Centre for Urban Processes, Resilient Infrastructure and Sustainable Environments   is home to PhD and Research Master’s opportunities exploring how we can enhance our built environments at local, national and international scales. 

Explore our  Doctoral School  to learn more about research training, support and opportunities.

A taste of what you could become

A claims consultant

A solicitor

A construction project manager

A commercial manager

And more...

Career Links

• We hold excellent links with the local, national and international architecture, engineering and construction industries.  These networks provide context for your studies and inform our curriculum development.
• Throughout the course, we invite guest lecturers from industry with expertise in relevant areas of construction law to share their insight and knowledge.

What you need to know

Applicant profile.

This course is recommended for applicants looking to enhance current knowledge and gain specialism in the construction law and practice. Typically, you will have existing academic and/or professional background in the legal or built environment professions.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

All of our courses are taught and assessed in English. If English is not your first language, you must meet our minimum English language entry requirements. An IELTS score of 6.0 (no element below 5.5) is proof of this, however we do accept a range of equivalent qualifications.

Read more about our  English language requirements , including information about pathways that can help you gain entry on to our degree courses. If you do not have the English language requirements, you could take our Pre-Sessional English course . 

COURSE ACCREDITATION

The full masters award is accredited by the  Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) .  Accreditation enables exemption from some academic entry requirements.

Undergraduate Degree

• A second class undergraduate honours degree in a relevant discipline, or
• A second class undergraduate honours degree in an unrelated discipline and significant relevant work experience within the built environment, or
• A recognised appropriate professional qualification such as RICS or CIOB

International student entry requirements

We accept qualifications from all around the world.  Find your country  to see a full list of entry requirements.

Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)

We welcome applications from students who may not have formal/traditional entry criteria but who have relevant experience or the ability to pursue the course successfully.

The Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process could help you to make your work and life experience count. The APL process can be used for entry onto courses or to give you exemptions from parts of your course.

Two forms of APL may be used for entry: the Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).

For more information or enquires about this scheme, please contact:  [email protected]  

Learn more about the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme .

Please note that the deadline for receipt of APEL portfolios is 31st July. 

Additional costs

You should consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.

International student scholarships

If you are a high-achieving international student, you may be eligible for one of our scholarships. 

Learn more about our latest  international scholarships .

All set? Let's apply

Enrolment dates.

September 2025

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LL.M. in Construction Law

An LL.M. in Construction Law can be an essential tool for a lawyer or other professional working in or around the field of construction. Indeed, the web of rules and regulations that relate to construction law can be complex and can even cross borders. Not to mention the legal ramifications of new technologies that might be affecting the way construction projects are managed and executed. That's why many LL.M. programs in Construction Law leverage up-to-date research and knowledge relating to the field.

As such, some courses that one might pursue in an LL.M. degree in Construction Law might include construction contracts, project financing, risk management, and dispute resolution, not to mention essential topics such as residential construction law or commercial construction law.

LL.M. programs in Construction Law can be found at many law...

An LL.M. in Construction Law can be an essential tool for a lawyer or other professional working in or around the field of construction. Indeed, the web of rules and regulations that relate to construction law can be complex and can even cross borders. Not to mention the legal ramifications of new technologies that might be affecting the way construction projects are managed and executed. That's why many LL.M. programs in Construction Law leverage up-to-date research and knowledge relating to the field.

LL.M. programs in Construction Law can be found at many law schools around the world, in countries such as the United Kingdom and Australia. Some law schools might offer related LL.M. programs in topics such as International Arbitration or Real Estate Law, which may also address topics in Construction Law.

Graduates of LL.M.s in Construction Law might go on to lucrative fields in law firms that manage real estate projects, for example, or as legal consultants to construction companies. 

See below for a complete list of LL.M. programs in Construction Laws.

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MA & PhD in Architecture

Ucla architecture and urban design offers two academic graduate degrees: the master of arts in architecture (ma) and doctor of philosophy in architecture (phd)..

The programs produce students whose scholarship aims to provoke and operate within architecture’s public, professional, and scholarly constituencies. Both programs are supported by the Standing Committee, made up of five faculty members: Michael Osman (interim program director), Cristóbal Amunátegui , Dana Cuff , Samaa Elimam , and Ayala Levin . A number of visiting faculty teach courses to expand the range of offerings.

Applications for the MA/PhD program (Fall 2024 matriculation) are completed via the UCLA Application for Graduate Admission , and are due January 6, 2024. Candidates will be notified of decisions in March 2024; admitted candidates who wish to accept the offer of matriculation must submit their Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) by April 15, 2024.

All MA and PhD students are required to enroll in a two-year colloquium focused on methods for writing, teaching, and researching in the field of architecture. The six courses that constitute the colloquium train students in the apparatus of academic scholarship. Over the two-year sequence, students produce original research projects and develop skills in long-format writing.

Research Opportunities

The intellectual life of the students in the MA and PhD programs are reinforced by the increasing number of opportunities afforded to students through specialized faculty-led research projects. These include cityLAB-UCLA and the Urban Humanities Institute .

MA in Architecture

This program prepares students to work in a variety of intellectual and programmatic milieus including historical research, cultural studies, and interdisciplinary studies with particular emphasis on connections with geography, design, art history, history of science and literary studies, as well as studio and design based research.

Beyond the core colloquium, MA students take a series of approved courses both at UCLA AUD and across campus. The MA program is a two-year degree, culminating in a thesis. The thesis is developed from a paper written by the student in their coursework and developed in consultation with the primary advisor and the standing committee. In addition to courses and individual research, students often participate in collective, project-based activities, including publications, symposia and exhibitions.

The program is distinguished by its engagement with contemporary design and historical techniques as well by the unusual balance it offers: fostering great independence and freedom in the students’ courses of study while providing fundamental training in architectural scholarship.

Recent MA Theses

• Jacqueline Meyer, “Crafting Utopia: Paolo Soleri and the Building of Arcosanti.”
• Joseph Maguid, “The Architecture of the Videogame: Architecture as the Link Between Representational and Participatory Immersion.”
• Meltem Al, “The Agency of Words and Images in the Transformation of Istanbul: The Case of Ayazma.”
• Courtney Coffman, “Addressing Architecture and Fashion: On Simulacrum, Time and Poché.”
• Joseph Ebert, “Prolegomena to a Poiesis of Architectural Phenomenology.”
• Jamie Aron, “Women Images: From the Bauhaus Weaving Workshop to the Knoll Textile Division.”
• Gustave Heully, “Moldy Assumptions.”
• Brigid McManama, “Interventions on Pacoima Wash: Repurposing Linear Infrastructure into Park Spaces.”

MA Typical Study Program

Phd in architecture.

This program prepares students to enter the academic professions, either in architectural history, architectural design, or other allied fields. PhD students are trained to teach courses in the history and theory of architecture while also engaging in studio pedagogy and curatorial work. In addition to the colloquium, PhD students take a series of approved courses both at UCLA Architecture and Urban Design and across campus. They select these courses in relation to their own research interests and in consultation with their primary advisor. The priorities for selection are breadth of knowledge and interdisciplinary experience that retains a focused area of expertise. To this end, the students identify Major and Minor Fields of study. The Minor Field is generally fulfilled by satisfactorily completing three courses given by another department and the Major Field by five courses offered by UCLA Architecture and Urban Design.

Once coursework is completed, PhD students move to the Comprehensive Exam, Qualifying Exam, and the writing of a dissertation, and final defense, if deemed appropriate by the doctoral committee. In the transition from coursework to exams, PhD students work on one paper beyond its original submission as coursework. The paper begins in the context of a departmental seminar, but often continues either in the context of an independent study, summer mentorship, or a second seminar with faculty consent. Upon the research paper’s acceptance, students begin preparing for their comprehensive exam. Before their third year, students must also satisfactorily complete three quarters of language study or its equivalent according to University standards. The particular language will be determined in consultation with the Standing Committee. The Comprehensive Exam is administered by at least two members of the Standing Committee and at most one faculty member from another Department at UCLA, also a member of the Academic Senate.

The Comprehensive Exam tests two fields: the first covers a breadth of historical knowledge—300 years at minimum—and the second focuses on in-depth knowledge of a specialization that is historically and thematically circumscribed. Students submit an abstract on each of these fields, provide a substantial bibliography, and prepare additional documentation requested by their primary advisor. These materials are submitted to the committee no less than two weeks before the exam, which occurs as early as the end of the second year. Students are encouraged to complete the Comprehensive Exam no later than the end of their third year of study.

The Comprehensive Exam itself consists of two parts: an oral component that takes place first, and then a written component. The oral component is comprised of questions posed by the committee based on the student’s submitted materials. The goal of the exam is for students to demonstrate their comprehensive knowledge of their chosen field. The written component of the exam (which may or may not be waived by the committee) consists of a written response to a choice of questions posed by the committee. The goal of this portion of the exam is for students to demonstrate their research skills, their ability to develop and substantiate an argument, and to show promise of original contribution to the field. Students have two weeks to write the exam. After the committee has read the exam, the advisor notifies the student of the committee’s decision. Upon the student’s successful completion of the Comprehensive Exam, they continue to the Qualifying Exam.

Students are expected to take the Qualifying Exam before the beginning of the fourth year. The exam focuses on a dissertation prospectus that a student develops with their primary advisor and in consultation with their PhD committee. Each student’s PhD committee consists of at least two members of the Standing Committee and one outside member from another department at the University (and a member of the Faculty Senate). Committees can also include faculty from another institution. All committees are comprised of at least three members of UCLA Academic Senate. The prospectus includes an argument with broad implications, demonstrates that the dissertation will make a contribution of knowledge and ideas to the field, demonstrates mastery of existing literature and discourses, and includes a plan and schedule for completion.

The PhD dissertation is written after the student passes the qualifying exam, at which point the student has entered PhD candidacy. The dissertation is defended around the sixth year of study. Students graduating from the program have taken posts in a wide range of universities, both in the United States and internationally.

Recent PhD Dissertations

• Marko Icev, "Building Solidarity: Architecture After Disaster and The Skopje 1963 Post-Earthquake Reconstruction." ( Read )
• Anas Alomaim, "Nation Building in Kuwait, 1961-1991."
• Tulay Atak, “Byzantine Modern: Displacements of Modernism in Istanbul.”
• Ewan Branda, “Virtual Machines: Culture, telematique, and the architecture of information at Centre Beaubourg, 1968–1977.”
• Aaron Cayer, "Design and Profit: Architectural Practice in the Age of Accumulation"
• Per-Johan Dahl, “Code Manipulation, Architecture In-Between Universal and Specific Urban Spaces.”
• Penelope Dean, “Delivery without Discipline: Architecture in the Age of Design.”
• Miriam Engler, “Gordon Cullen and the ‘Cut-and-Paste’ Urban Landscape.”
• Dora Epstein-Jones, “Architecture on the Move: Modernism and Mobility in the Postwar.”
• Sergio Figueiredo, “The Nai Effect: Museological Institutions and the Construction of Architectural Discourse.”
• Jose Gamez, “Contested Terrains: Space, Place, and Identity in Postcolonial Los Angeles.”
• Todd Gannon, “Dissipations, Accumulations, and Intermediations: Architecture, Media and the Archigrams, 1961–1974.”
• Whitney Moon, "The Architectural Happening: Diller and Scofidio, 1979-89"
• Eran Neuman, “Oblique Discourses: Claude Parent and Paul Virilio’s Oblique Function Theory and Postwar Architectural Modernity.”
• Alexander Ortenberg, “Drawing Practices: The Art and Craft of Architectural Representation.”
• Brian Sahotsky, "The Roman Construction Process: Building the Basilica of Maxentius"
• Marie Saldana, “A Procedural Reconstruction of the Urban Topography of Magnesia on The Maeander.”
• David Salomon, “One Thing or Another: The World Trade Center and the Implosion of Modernism.”
• Ari Seligmann, “Architectural Publicity in the Age of Globalization.”
• Zheng Tan, “Conditions of The Hong Kong Section: Spatial History and Regulatory Environment of Vertically Integrated Developments.”
• Jon Yoder, “Sight Design: The Immersive Visuality of John Lautner.”

A Sampling of PhD Alumni and Their Pedagogy

Iman Ansari , Assistant Professor of Architecture, the Knowlton School, Ohio State University

Tulay Atak , Adjunct Associate Professor, Pratt School of Architecture

Shannon Starkey , Associate Professor of Architecture, University of San Diego

Ece Okay , Affiliate Research, Université De Pau Et Des Pays De L'adour

Zheng Tan , Department of Architecture, Tongji University

Pelin Yoncaci , Assistant Professor, Department Of Architecture, Middle East Technical University

José L.S. Gámez , Interim Dean, College of Arts + Architecture, UNC Charlotte

Eran Neuman , Professor, School of Architecture, Tel Aviv University

Marie Saldana , Assistant Professor, School of Interior Architecture, University of Tennessee - Knoxville

Sergio M. Figueiredo , Assistant Professor, Eindhoven University of Technology

Rebecca Choi , Assistant Professor of Architecture History, School of Architecture, Tulane University

Will Davis , Lecturer in History, Theory and Criticism, Department of Architecture, National University of Singapore

Maura Lucking , Faculty, School of Architecture & Urban Planning, University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee

Kyle Stover , Assistant Professor, School of Architecture, Montana State University

Alex Maymind , Assistant Professor of Architecture and Director of Undergraduate Studies in Architecture, University of Minnesota

Gary Riichirō Fox , visiting faculty member at Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc) and lecturer at USC School of Architecture

Randy Nakamura , Adjunct Professor, College of Arts and Sciences, University of San Francisco

Aaron Cayer , Assistant Professor of Architecture History, School of Architecture + Planning, University of New Mexico

Whitney Moon , Associate Professor of Architecture, School of Architecture & Urban Planning, University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee

Todd Gannon , Professor of Architecture, the Knowlton School, Ohio State University

Dora Epstein Jones , Professor of Practice, School of Architecture, the University of Texas at Austin

Sarah Hearne , Assistant Professor, College of Architecture and Planning, University of Colorado Denver

PhD Typical Study Program

*The choice of language to fulfill this requirement must be discussed with the Ph.D. Standing Committee

Our Current PhD Cohort

AUD's cohort of PhD candidates are leaders in their fields of study, deepening their scholarship at AUD and at UCLA while sharing their knowledge with the community.

Adam Boggs is a sixth year Ph.D candidate and interdisciplinary artist, scholar, educator and Urban Humanist. His research and teaching interests include the tension between creativity and automation, craft-based epistemologies, and the social and material history of architecture at the U.S.-Mexico border. He holds a BFA in Sculpture Cum Laude from the Ohio State University, and an MFA in Visual Art from the State University of New York at Purchase College. Prior to joining the doctoral program at UCLA he participated in courses in Architecture (studio and history) at Princeton University and Cornell University. His dissertation analyzes the history of indigenous labor during the Mexican baroque period to form a comparative analysis with the 20th century Spanish revival architecture movement in Southern California and how the implementation of the style along the U.S.-Mexico border might function as a Lefebvrian “thirdspace” that disrupts binary thinking. In Spring 2024 he will teach an undergraduate seminar course at AUD on the history of architecture at the U.S.-Mexico border as part of the CUTF program.

Hanyu Chen is a second-year doctoral student at UCLA AUD. Her research focuses on the intersection between (sub)urban studies, heritage conservation, and the genders of the space. Specifically, it concerns the dynamics of genders in (sub)urban areas and how these dynamics are conserved as heritage. Born and raised in China for her first 18 years, Hanyu chose the conservation of comfort stations in China as her master's thesis at the University of Southern California, where she earned her master’s degree in Heritage Conservation and officially started her journey in architecture. Her thesis discusses the fluidity and genders of comfort stations and how they survive in contemporary China’s heritage conservation policies.

Hanyu also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in AMS (Applied Mathematics and Statistics) and Art History from Stony Brook University.

Yixuan Chen

Yixuan Chen is an architectural designer and a first-year doctoral student in the Department of Architecture and Urban Design at UCLA. Driven by an impulse to demystify both the grand promises and trivial familiarities of architecture, her research embarks on the notion of everydayness to elucidate the power dynamics it reveals. She investigates the conflicts between these two ends and focuses on modernization across different times and places.

Prior to joining UCLA AUD, she was trained as an architect and graduated from the University of Nottingham's China Campus with a first-class honors degree. Her graduation project “Local Culture Preservation Centre,” which questioned the validity of monumental architecture in the climate crisis, was nominated for the RIBA President's Medal in 2016.

She also holds a Master of Arts degree with distinction in Architectural History from the Bartlett School of Architecture, University College London. Her dissertation, “Shijing, on the Debris of Shijing,” explores the vanishing shijing places, or urban villages, where rural migrant workers negotiate their urban identity in Chinese cities, revealing shifting power relations. Additionally, she authored an article in Prospectives Journal titled "Architectural Authorship in ‘the Last Mile,’" advocating for a change to relational architectural authorship in response to the digital revolution in architecture.

Pritam Dey is an urban designer and second-year doctoral student at UCLA AUD. His research interest lies at the intersection of colonial urbanism, sensorial history, and somatic inquiries. His architecture thesis investigated the crematorium and temple as sensorial infrastructure, and was presented at World Architecture Congress at Seoul in 2017. Previously Dey worked in the domain of urban design, specifically informal markets, as a shaper of urbanism in Indian cities. Prior to joining the AUD doctoral program, his past research focused on investigating the role of informal and wholesale markets in shaping up urbanity in the Indian city cores and co-mentored workshops on Urbanity of Chitpur Road, Kolkata with ENSAPLV, Paris which was both exhibited at Kolkata and Paris. He also co-mentored the documentation of the retrospective landscape of Hampi with the support of ENSAPLV and French Embassy. His investigations on the slums of Dharavi title ‘The tabooed city’ was published in the McGill University GLSA Research series 2021 under the theme: the city an object or subject of law?

An urban designer and architect, Pritam Dey pursued his post graduation from School of planning and Architecture, Delhi. During his academic tenure at SPA, he was the recipient of 2018 Design Innovation Center Fellowship for Habitat design allowing him to work on the social infrastructure for less catered communities in the Sub Himalayan Villages. In 2022 He mentored a series of exhibitions on the theme of Water, Mountains and Bodies at Ahmadabad.

He was the 2022-23 Urban Humanities Initiatives Fellow at UCLA and recipient of 2023 UCLA Center for India and South Asia fellowship for his summer research.

Carrie Gammell

Carrie Gammell is a doctoral candidate working at the intersection of architectural history, property law, and political economy. Her research focuses on claims, investments, and intermediary organizations in the United States, from the Homestead Act of 1862 to the Housing Act of 1934.

Carrie is also a Senior Research Associate at cityLAB UCLA, where she studies state appropriations for California community college student housing. In the past, she contributed to Education Workforce Housing in California: Developing the 21st Century Campus, a report and companion handbook that provides a comprehensive overview of the potential for land owned by school districts to be designed and developed for teachers and other employees.

Prior to joining AUD, Carrie worked as an architectural designer in Colombia and the United States, where she built a portfolio of affordable housing, multi-family residential, and single-family residential projects as well as civic and cultural renovations and additions. She holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Rice University and a Master in Design Studies (Critical Conservation) from the Harvard Graduate School of Design.

Anirudh Gurumoorthy

Anirudh Gurumoorthy is a PhD candidate at UCLA AUD. His dissertation, tentatively titled (Un)Certain Tropics and the Architecture of Certain Commodities, 1803-1926, focuses on the spatial and environmental histories of natural history/sciences in the long-nineteenth century as it related to the political economy of empire within South Asia. He is interested in the ways the materiality of commodity extraction and production contends with how, where, and why certain ‘tropical’ animals, vegetables, and minerals are attributed with a metropolitan sense of ‘value’. Moving from the United States to Britain (and back) through various parts of the Indian Ocean world as markets for singular forms of ice, rubber, and cattle form, peak, and collapse, the dissertation ultimately aims to reveal interconnected spatial settings of knowledge, control, regulation, display, and labor where knowledge systems, technical limits, human and nonhuman action/inaction, differentiated senses of environments and value continually contend with each other to uphold the fetishes of the world market. Gurumoorthy holds a B.Arch. from R.V. College of Architecture, Bangalore, and an M.Des in the History and Philosophy of Design and Media from the Harvard Graduate School of Design.

Chi-Chia Hou

Chi-Chia Hou is a doctoral candidate in his sixth year at UCLA AUD. His working dissertation, “New Frontier: Architecture and Service 1893-1960,” explores his interest in architecture and wealth, changing ideas of profit and management, and social scientific discourses for measuring work and worker, self and others, and values of landed property.

His research locates moments of theorizing methodologies to manage income-generating properties in schools of agriculture, home economics, and hotel studies. The schools taught their students theories, while instilling the imminence of faithful direction of oneself, of self-as-property. The pedagogies, existing beyond the purview of Architecture, were of immense architectural consideration.

Chi-Chia Hou took a break from school in the previous academic year to learn from his daughter and has now returned to school to learn from his brilliant cohorts.

Adam Lubitz

Adam Lubitz is an urban planner, heritage conservationist, and doctoral student. His research engages the intersection of critical heritage studies and migration studies, with an emphasis on how archival information can inform reparations. His community-based research has been most recently supported by the Columbia GSAPP Incubator Prize as well as the Ziman Center for Real Estate and Leve Center for Jewish Studies at UCLA.

Prior to joining AUD, Adam worked at World Monuments Fund within their Jewish Heritage Program, and taught GIS coursework at Barnard College. His master's thesis applied field research with experimental mapping techniques in the old town of a municipality in Palestine. Adam holds MS degrees in Historic Preservation and Urban Planning from Columbia University and a BA in Urban Studies from New College of Florida.

José Monge is a PhD candidate in the Department of Architecture and Urban Design. His dissertation, titled Maritime Labor, Candles, and the Architecture of the Enlightenment (1750-1872) , focuses on the role that whale-originated illuminants, specifically spermaceti candles and oil, played in the American Enlightenment as an intellectual project and the U.S. as a country. By unravelling the tension between binaries such as intellectual and manual labor–the consumers that bought these commodities and the producers that were not able to afford them–the project understands architecture as a history of activities that moved from sea to land and land to sea, challenging assumptions about the static “nature” of architecture.

Kurt Pelzer

Kurt Pelzer is a fourth-year PhD candidate at UCLA AUD. Their research explores the relational histories, material flows, and politics of land in and beyond California in the long nineteenth century during the United States parks, public lands, and conservation movements.

Their current scholarship traces the settler possession and exhibitionary display of a Giant Sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum) in the 1850s; an act that contested the ways Miwok peoples ancestral to California's Sierra Nevada knew and related to life and land. Their broader interests include histories of colonialism and capitalism in the Americas, environmental history, and Blackness and Indigeneity as a methodological analytic for political solidarities and possibilities.

Prior to arriving at UCLA, Pelzer worked at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art in the Architecture and Design Curatorial Department participating in exhibitions, programming, and collections work. Pelzer completed a Master of Advanced Architectural Design in the History, Theory, and Experiments program from California College of the Arts in San Francisco, and earned their Bachelor's degree in Landscape Architecture from the College of Design at Iowa State University.

Shota Vashakmadze

Email Shota Vashakmadze

Shota Vashakmadze is a sixth-year PhD candidate at UCLA AUD. His dissertation traces the conjoined histories of architectural computing, environmental design, and professional practice in the late 20th century, adopting critical approaches to architecture’s technical substrates—the algorithms, softwares, and user protocols of computation—to examine their social and political dispositions. In his scholarship and pedagogy, he aims to situate forms of architectural labor within the profession’s ongoing acculturation to environmental crisis. Most recently, he has been leading the development of the interdisciplinary “Building Climates” cluster, a year-long course sequence at UCLA, and co-organizing an initiative dedicated to fostering discourse on climate change and architecture, including a two-day conference entitled “Architecture After a Green New Deal.”

His research has been supported by the Canadian Centre for Architecture and appeared in journals including Architectural Theory Review , The Avery Review, and Pidgin Magazine. He is currently completing a contribution to a collection on landscape representation and a chapter for an edited volume on architecture, labor, and political economy.

Shota holds an MArch from Princeton University and has a professional background in architecture, landscape, and software development. Before coming to UCLA, he researched methods for designing with point cloud data and wrote Bison, a software plugin for landscape modeling.

Alexa Vaughn

Alexa Vaughn (ASLA, FAAR) is a first year PhD student in Architecture + Urban Design and a Eugene V. Cota-Robles Fellow , from Long Beach, California. She is a Deaf landscape designer, accessibility specialist, consultant, and recent Fellow of the American Academy in Rome (2022-23). She is a visionary speaker, thought leader, prolific writer and researcher, and the author of “ DeafScape : Applying DeafSpace to Landscape,” which has been featured in numerous publications.

Her professional work is centered upon designing public landscapes with and for the Deaf and disabled communities, applying legal standards and Universal Design principles alongside lived experience and direct participation in the design process. She is an expert in designing landscapes for the Deaf community (DeafScape) and in facilitation of disabled community engagement. Prior to joining the A+UD program, Alexa worked for several landscape architecture firms over the course of six years, including OLIN and MIG, Inc.

Through a disability justice lens, her dissertation will seek to formally explore the historical exclusionary and inaccessible design of American urban landscapes and public spaces, as well as the response (activism, policy, and design) to this history through the present and speculative future. She will also actively take part in activist- and practice-based research with cityLAB and the Urban Humanities Institute .

Alexa holds both a BA in Landscape Architecture (with a minor in Conservation and Resource Studies) and a Master’s degree in Landscape Architecture (MLA) from the University of California, Berkeley, with specialization in accessible and inclusive design. Much of her work can be found at www.designwithdisabledpeoplenow.com and on Instagram: @DeafScape.

Yashada Wagle

Yashada Wagle is a third year PhD student in Critical Studies at UCLA AUD, and a recipient of the department's Moss Scholarship. Her research focuses on imperial environmental-legislative regimes in British colonial India in the late nineteenth century. She is interested in exploring questions around the histories of spaces of extraction and production as they network between the metropole and the colony, and their relationship with the conceptions of laboring bodies therein. Her master's thesis focused on the Indian Forest Act of 1865, and elucidated the conceptualization of the space of the ‘forest’ through the lenses of its literary, legislative, and biopolitical trajectories, highlighting how these have informed its contemporary lived materiality.

Wagle holds a Bachelor in Architecture (BArch) from the Savitribai Phule Pune University in India, and a Master in Design Studies (History and Philosophy of Design and Media) from the Harvard Graduate School of Design. She was previously a Research Fellow at the Kamla Raheja Vidyanidhi Institute for Architecture and Environmental Studies (KRVIA) in Mumbai, India.

In her spare time, Wagle enjoys illustrating and writing poetry, some of which can be found here .

Dexter Walcott

Dexter Walcott is a registered architect currently in his fifth year with the Critical Studies of Architecture program at UCLA. His research focuses on the Latrobe family and early nineteenth century builders in the Mississippi and Ohio river valleys. He is interested in the role of the built environment in histories of labor, capitalism, steam-power, and industry.

Born and raised in Hong Kong, Joy is a fifth-year PhD student in architecture history. Her research explores geology as antiquity from early 19th – 20th century British colonial Hong Kong and China. She holds a B.A. in Comparative Literature with a focus in German from Middlebury College in 2017, and is a graduate of The New Normal program at Strelka Institute, Moscow in 2018. Previously, she has taught in the Department of Architecture at University of Hong Kong, as well as the Department of Design at Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

After working as a curatorial assistant at Tai Kwun Contemporary in 2019, she has continued the practice of art writing and translation, collaborating with many local Hong Kong artists as well as international curators such as Raimundas Malašauskas. In her spare time, she practices long-distance open water swimming. In 2022, she completed a 30km course at the South of Lantau Island, Hong Kong.

The MA and PhD programs welcome and accept applications from students with a diverse range of backgrounds. These programs are designed to help those interested in academic work in architecture develop those skills, so we strongly encourage that you become familiar with fundamental, celebrated works in the history and theory of architecture before entering the program.

Applicants to the academic graduate programs must hold a Bachelor’s degree, or the foreign equivalent. All new students must enter in the fall quarter. The program is full-time and does not accept part-time students.

Applications for the MA and PhD programs (Fall 2024 matriculation) will be available in Fall 2023, with application deadline of January 6, 2024; please revisit this page for updates. Accepted candidates who wish to enroll must file an online Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) by April 15, 2024.

How to Apply

Applying to the MA and PhD programs is an online process via the UCLA Application for Graduate Admission (AGA).

Completing the requirements will take some time, so we strongly recommend logging in to the AGA in advance to familiarize yourself with the site and downloading the documents and forms you will need to complete your application.

You can also download this checklist to make sure you have prepared and submitted all the relevant documents to complete your application.

Your Statement of Purpose is a critical part of your application to the MA and PhD programs. It is your opportunity to introduce yourself and tell us about your specific academic background, interests, achievements, and goals. Our selection committee use it to evaluate your aptitude for study, as well as consideration for merit-based financial support.

Your statement can be up to 1500 words in length. Below are some questions you might want to consider. You don’t need to answer every question; just focus on the elements that are most relevant to you.

• What is your purpose in applying to the MA or PhD program? Describe your area(s) of research interest, including any areas of concentration and specialization.
• What experiences have prepared you for this program? What relevant skills have you gained from these experiences? Have your experiences led to specific or tangible outcomes that would support your potential to contribute to this field (e.g. performances, publications, presentations, awards or recognitions)?
• What other information about your past experience might help the selection committee in evaluating your suitability for this program? E.g. research, employment, teaching, service, artistic or international experiences through which you have developed skills in leadership, communication, project management, teamwork, or other areas.
• Why is UCLA Architecture and Urban Design the best place for you to pursue your academic goals?
• What are your plans for your career after earning this degree?

Your Personal Statement is your opportunity to provide additional information to help the selection committee evaluate your aptitude for study. It will also be used to consider candidates for UCLA Graduate Division fellowships related to diversity. You can read more about the University of California Diversity Statement here .

Your statement can be up to 500 words in length. Below are some questions you might want to consider. You don’t need to answer every question; just focus on the elements that are most relevant to you.

• Are there educational, personal, cultural, economic, or social experiences, not described in your Statement of Purpose, that have shaped your academic journey? If so, how? Have any of these experiences provided unique perspective(s) that you would contribute to your program, field or profession?
• Describe challenge(s) or barriers that you have faced in your pursuit of higher education. What motivated you to persist, and how did you overcome them? What is the evidence of your persistence, progress or success?
• How have your life experiences and educational background informed your understanding of the barriers facing groups that are underrepresented in higher education?
• How have you been actively engaged (e.g., through participation, employment, service, teaching or other activities) in programs or activities focused on increasing participation by groups that have been historically underrepresented in higher education?
• How do you intend to engage in scholarly discourse, research, teaching, creative efforts, and/or community engagement during your graduate program that have the potential to advance diversity and equal opportunity in higher education?
• How do you see yourself contributing to diversity in your profession after you complete your academic degree at UCLA Architecture and Urban Design?

A Curriculum Vitae (résumé of your academic and professional experience) is recommended but not required.

Applicants must upload a scanned copy of the official transcripts from each college or university you have attended both in the U.S. and abroad. If you are accepted into the program you will be required to submit hard copies. These can either be sent directly from each institution or hand-delivered as long as they remain in the official, signed, sealed envelopes from your college or university. As a general rule, UCLA Graduate Division sets a minimum required overall grade-point average of 3.0 (B), or the foreign equivalent.

As of this Fall 2023 cycle, the GRE is NOT required as part of your application to UCLA AUD. No preference will be given to those who choose to submit GRE scores as part of their application.

However, if you do take the GRE exam and wish to include it as part of your application: More information on this standardized exam can be found at www.ets.org/gre . In addition to uploading your GRE scores, please direct ETS to send us your official score sheets. Our ETS codes for the GRE are below:

UCLA Architecture and Urban Design Institution Code: 4837 Department Code: 4401

We recommend you take the exam at least three weeks before the application deadline as it usually takes 2-3 weeks for ETS to send us the test scores.

If you have received a Bachelor’s degree in a country where the official language of instruction and primary spoken language of daily life is not English, you must submit either a Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Exempt countries include Australia, Barbados, Canada, Ireland, Jamaica, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. This is a requirement that is regardless of your visa or citizenship status in the United States.

To be considered for admission to the M.Arch. program, international students must score at least a 92 on the TOEFL or a 7 on the IELTS exam. Because processing, sending, and receiving TOEFL and IELTS scores can take several weeks, international students must schedule their exam no later than October 31 in order to meet UCLA deadlines. TOEFL scores must be sent to us directly and uploaded as part of the online submission. Our ETS codes for the TOEFL are below:

UCLA Architecture and Urban Design Institution Code: 4837 Department Code: 12

If your score is less than 100 on the TOEFL or 7.5 on the IELTS, you are also required to take the English as a Second Language Placement Examination (ESLPE) on arrival at UCLA. The results of this test will determine any English as a Second Language (ESL) courses you need to take in your first term of residence. These courses cannot be applied towards your minimum course requirements. As such, you should expect to have a higher course load than students not required to take ESL courses.

If you have earned a degree or completed two years of full-time college-level coursework in the following countries, your TOEFL / IELTS and ESLPE requirements will be waived: U.S., U.K., Canada (other than Quebec), Australia, and New Zealand. Please provide official transcripts to demonstrate course completion. Unfortunately, we cannot accept any other documentation to demonstrate language proficiency.

Three (3) letters of recommendation are required. These letters should be from individuals who are familiar with your academic and professional experiences and can evaluate your capacity to successfully undertake graduate studies at UCLA. If you do not have an architecture background please note that we are looking for letters that evaluate your potential as a graduate student, not necessarily your architecture experience.

Letters of recommendation must be sent electronically directly to UCLA by the recommender. When logged in, you can enter the name and email address of each of your recommenders. They will be contacted by email with a request to submit a letter on your behalf. You can track which letters have and have not been received. You can also send reminders to your recommenders to send their letters.

Writing samples should illustrate an applicant’s capacities for research, analytical writing and scholarly citation. Texts may include seminar papers, theses, and/or professional writing.

Please complete and submit the Department Supplement Form to confirm your intention to apply to the MA or PhD program.

LLM/PgDip/PgCert Construction Law

• Start date:  January & September
• Study mode and duration:  LLM: 12 months full-time, 24 months part-time PgDip: 9 months full-time, 18 months part-time PgCert: 8 months part-time

Attendance:  In-person and new online, distance learning versions available for LLM students

Scholarships: EU Engagement Scholarships worth £10,000 available to applicants from EU countries (in-person learning only)

Study with us

• construction professionals develop knowledge of the law required for practical application
• lawyers gain legal expertise relating to management of construction projects
• full-time and part-time study options
• law degree not a prerequisite for entry to the course
• Our Law School is ranked 6th in the UK by The Times Good University Guide 2023

Why this course?

The course is designed for both construction professionals and lawyers. Construction professionals will learn about the legal framework to the construction industry and engage on the legal processes involved in major construction projects, from commissioning to completion.

Lawyers will gain a greater understanding of the processes and management of construction projects, as well as in-depth legal expertise relating to such projects.

Construction Law offers both an in-person and online version, with both versions offering the same content, with a mix of pre-recorded and live online lectures available. Students will also have access to a wide range of electronic information sources.

The construction industry is increasingly diverse and dynamic. Our programme brings together leading practitioners to ensure our teaching is contemporary and reflective of developments in the industry. Our student bodies also tends to attract a range of disciplines within construction, ensuring real value in bringing together different perspectives

What you’ll study

The programme can be taken on a part-time basis over two years (three modules per year), or on a full-time basis over one year.

The Diploma programme requires you to complete:

• four core construction law modules
• a compulsory module in Research Methods
• one elective module from the suite of courses offered by the School of Law

The LLM programme requires the completion of a 15,000-word dissertation in addition to the above.

Core modules

Participants without a formal legal qualification will study the module Legal Process and the Law of Contract and Other Obligations.

Those with a legal qualification will study the Context of Construction.

Both groups study:

• The Law of the Construction Industry
• The Law & Practice of Construction Management
• Research Methods
• Dispute Resolution
• Arbitration

Part-time course structure

As a part-time student, you'll study three 20-credit classes in first year, one in semester 1 and two in semester 2.

You'll study three classes in second year, two in semester 1 and one in semester 2. Once the six classes are successfully completed, you'll proceed to the dissertation.

Classes have previously taken place from 6pm–8pm, and all seminars are usually two hours long and run over ten weeks.

This is subject to change as the timetable is finalised.

Our library has a wide range of law reports, legislation, serials and monographs. It also has duplicate sets of key law report series, houses extensive collections in government publications and other related areas.

You’ll have access to a wide range of electronic information sources which can be accessed from home, including all the major legal databases.

How to become a lawyer

There are different routes to a career in law. The choices you make now can affect the steps you would need to take to achieve your desired career in law. Here we explore the process of becoming a lawyer in Scotland and look at the different roles available within the law profession.

The course content outlined for LLM Construction Law is by far the latest and up to date, this I could confirm confidently, because of being a construction industry professional.

International students

We've a thriving international community with students coming here to study from over 140 countries across the world. Find out all you need to know about studying in Glasgow at Strathclyde and hear from students about their experiences.

Entry requirements

Interested in postgraduate study.

At the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, our friendly and knowledgeable team will be available to provide you with all the information you need to kick-start your postgraduate journey at the University of Strathclyde. Register for upcoming events below:

• Monthly drop-in sessions

Pre-Masters preparation course

The  Pre-Masters Programme  is a preparation course held at the  University of Strathclyde International Study Centre , for international students (non-UK/Ireland) who do not meet the academic entry requirements for a Masters degree at University of Strathclyde.

Upon successful completion, you'll be able to progress to this degree course at the University of Strathclyde.

Please note: Previous Maths & English qualifications and your undergraduate degree must meet GTCS minimum entry requirements as well as the pre-Masters course and an interview will be conducted before an offer can be made.

The unique skill I've gained is the ability to grasp and critically analyse information that I have never come across before. Such skill will reflect positively on my career as a future construction solicitor. 

Mohamad El Daouk

Chat to a student ambassador

If you want to know more about what it’s like to be a Humanities & Social Sciences student at the University of Strathclyde, a selection of our current students are here to help!

Our Unibuddy ambassadors can answer all the questions you might have about courses and studying at Strathclyde, along with offering insight into their experiences of life in Glasgow and Scotland.

My advice is: apply the knowledge and common sense, be flexible, don't necessarily believe assumed facts, do enough research to ensure that you are right, and finally enjoy the journey, the eminence and the people you meet along the way.

Glasgow is Scotland's biggest & most cosmopolitan city

Our campus is based right in the very heart of Glasgow. We're in the city centre, next to the Merchant City, both of which are great locations for sightseeing, shopping and socialising alongside your studies.

Insights & News

Alrud corporate practice experts prepared materials for the aba publication in “the year in review”.

Anton Dzhuplin, ALRUD Partner, edited the “International M&A and Joint Ventures” part of the ABA annual publication “The Year In Review”. Kristina Akalovich, ALRUD Associate, and Natella Koriashvili, ALRUD Attorney, under Anton Dzhuplin’s guidance prepared an article on important trends of 2021 in the sphere of international mergers and acquisitions and joint ventures in Russia.

ALRUD experts prepared an article for Corporate LiveWire magazine

Daniil Lozovsky, Senior Attorney of the Competition/Antitrust Practice, and Grigory Viktorov, Junior Attorney of Competition/Antitrust Practice prepared an article “The new foreign direct investments regime in Russia” in Mergers & Acquisitions Expert Guide 2022 published by the Corporate LiveWire magazine.

ALRUD experts prepared an article for IPBA on regulation of Metaverse

The September issue of The Inter-Pacific Bar Association (IPBA) Journal relating to legal issues of Metaverse features an article by ALRUD experts entitled “Regulatory Trends Concerning the Metaverse in Russia”.

Key changes in Life Sciences for the June-October 2022 period

We are glad to present you a current digest of the most significant bills, regulatory changes, and measures affecting the pharmaceutical and healthcare industry for the period from June to October 2022.

Employment relations issues for employees who have left Russia

Many companies have recently had to deal with situations where their employees (including remote employees) have independently decided to leave Russia and continue working from abroad. The ALRUD team has compiled a summary of the issues and risks that need to be assessed in each specific case of work performed by an employee located outside of Russia.

New reality for media business in Russia

In the last months of 2022, a number of new laws were adopted and came into force. The laws entail a need to revise the approaches of online platforms to content moderation and launching media campaigns in Russia. In this regard, ALRUD presents you with an overview of the key changes that online platforms need to take into account when carrying out business activity in Russia.

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