Master of Energy Efficient and Sustainable Building

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

RMIT University

Program Overview

The Master of Energy Efficient and Sustainable Building is ideal for students who want to build expertise in sustainable building design, energy efficiency and environmentally responsible construction. The program brings together sustainable building technologies, energy and climate engineering, project management and sustainability assessment, helping students develop practical skills for creating more efficient and sustainable buildings.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students develop a strong foundation in sustainable building principles, environmentally sustainable design and building performance. They explore how energy efficiency and sustainability can be incorporated into buildings while developing the skills needed to assess and improve building performance.

Year 2: Students build on this knowledge through advanced study in areas such as building energy and climate engineering, sustainable construction and sustainable building project management. They also complete a final-year project, giving them the opportunity to investigate a real building-related sustainability challenge and develop and communicate practical solutions.

Focus Areas

Energy-efficient building design, environmentally sustainable design, building sustainability assessment, building energy and climate engineering, energy management, sustainable construction management, building physics, facade engineering, building services engineering, facilities management and sustainable urban environments.

Learning Outcomes

Students develop a strong understanding of sustainable building principles and learn how to analyse, design and manage energy-efficient buildings. They also strengthen their technical, research, teamwork and leadership skills, enabling them to assess sustainability challenges and develop practical solutions for the built environment.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program is professionally recognised by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Its industry-focused curriculum prepares students for professional roles in sustainable construction, building energy, environmental sustainability and the wider built environment.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

RMIT is ranked #1 in Australia and among the top 15 universities globally for Architecture and Built Environment in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026. The program also has strong industry involvement, with industry and consulting professionals contributing through guest seminars and input into final-year projects.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At RMIT University, the Master of Energy Efficient and Sustainable Building program is designed to provide students with hands-on experience that is essential for success in the field. Through a combination of practical projects, state-of-the-art facilities, and collaborative learning, students gain the skills and knowledge needed to tackle real-world challenges in sustainable building design and energy efficiency.

The program emphasizes experiential learning through various opportunities, including:

- State-of-the-art laboratories: Access to specialized labs equipped with advanced technology for testing and developing sustainable building materials and systems.
- Software tools: Proficiency in industry-standard software such as Autodesk Revit, EnergyPlus, and SketchUp, which are essential for modeling and analyzing building performance.
- Group projects: Collaborative projects that simulate real-world scenarios, allowing students to work in teams to design and propose sustainable building solutions.
- Internships: Opportunities to engage with industry partners through internships, providing valuable experience and networking within the sustainable building sector.
- Field trips: Visits to innovative sustainable buildings and construction sites, offering insights into best practices and emerging trends in the industry.
- Research institutes: Collaboration with RMIT’s research centers focused on sustainability and energy efficiency, enabling students to contribute to cutting-edge research.
- Access to libraries and resources: Comprehensive library facilities with extensive collections on architecture, engineering, and sustainability, supporting students' research and learning.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance your academic experience but also prepare you for a successful career in the rapidly evolving field of sustainable building.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Master of Energy Efficient and Sustainable Building at RMIT University are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of sustainable design and construction. With a strong focus on innovative practices, you can expect to find yourself in roles such as a Sustainability Consultant, Building Services Engineer, or Project Manager in sustainable construction. The skills and knowledge gained from this program will position you for a successful career in a rapidly evolving industry:

- University Services: RMIT offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events with industry professionals, ensuring you are well-prepared for the job market.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: The employment rate for graduates in this field is impressive, with many securing roles shortly after graduation. Average salaries for positions in sustainable building can range from AUD 70,000 to AUD 100,000, depending on experience and role.
- University–Industry Partnerships: RMIT has strong connections with leading organizations in the construction and sustainability sectors, such as the Green Building Council of Australia and various local councils, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and real-world project experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by relevant professional bodies, ensuring that your qualification is recognized and respected in the industry, enhancing your employability.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates have gone on to work with top firms and have been involved in significant projects that contribute to sustainable urban development, showcasing the impact of their education.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the Master of Energy Efficient and Sustainable Building, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a PhD in a related field, focusing on advanced research in sustainable architecture or energy efficiency. This can open doors to academic positions or specialized roles in research and development, allowing you to contribute to innovative solutions in the industry.