Building Services Engineering MSc

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

London South Bank University

Program Overview

The MSc Building Services Engineering at London South Bank University (LSBU) equips students with the advanced technical and managerial skills to design, operate, and manage efficient and sustainable building systems. It’s designed for graduates and professionals in engineering or construction who want to specialize in the technologies that make buildings safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Full-time MSc)
In the first semester, students gain a strong foundation in building systems through modules like Heating and Energy in Buildings and Electrical Power – Distribution and Utilisation. These modules explore thermal comfort, HVAC system design, and low-voltage power distribution — essential knowledge for developing safe, efficient, and sustainable buildings.

The second semester focuses on advanced applications and sustainability with modules such as Sustainable Building Design and Building Services Design Project. Students work on real-world case studies to design integrated mechanical and electrical systems, considering low-carbon technologies and modern design standards like BREEAM and LEED.

In the final semester, students complete their MSc Dissertation, an independent research or design project where they investigate a specialist topic such as renewable integration, smart energy systems, or indoor environmental quality.

Focus Areas: HVAC Systems, Sustainable Building Design, Electrical Services, Renewable Integration, Energy Efficiency

Learning Outcomes: Graduates will be able to design and evaluate complex building service systems, apply energy-efficient and sustainable technologies, use industry-standard design tools, and manage projects in line with current regulations and professional standards.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The MSc Building Services Engineering is accredited by both The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) and The Energy Institute (EI), fulfilling the academic requirements for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): London South Bank University has a long-standing reputation as one of the UK’s leading providers of building services education and ranks among the top London universities for graduate employability in engineering (HESA Graduate Outcomes 2023; The Guardian University Guide 2024).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in the MSc Building Services Engineering program at London South Bank University (LSBU) develop advanced technical and professional expertise through a highly practical and industry-focused learning experience. The course emphasizes hands-on application of sustainable design, energy systems, and building performance analysis — ensuring graduates are ready to deliver safe, efficient, and low-carbon building environments. LSBU’s strong industry connections and specialist facilities allow students to bridge the gap between theory and practice, working with real engineering data, simulation tools, and live project environments.

Experiential learning is at the heart of the program, supported by a range of professional-standard resources and opportunities such as:

Specialist Building Services and Energy Engineering Laboratories, designed for testing HVAC systems, renewable technologies, and energy performance modelling.
Access to leading software tools including AutoCAD, Revit (BIM), IES-VE, and MATLAB for system design, simulation, and building performance analysis.
Project-based learning, where students collaborate on integrated design projects that reflect real-world consultancy and construction challenges.
Opportunities for applied research through LSBU’s School of the Built Environment and Architecture, focusing on sustainability, smart buildings, and low-energy design.
Dedicated Environmental and Thermal Comfort Labs, where students can measure air quality, lighting, and thermal performance parameters.
Industry engagement and guest lectures from practicing engineers, chartered professionals, and representatives of organizations such as CIBSE and ASHRAE.
Access to the BIM Centre, one of London’s leading facilities for Building Information Modelling, offering workshops and digital collaboration environments.
The Perry Library, offering comprehensive built environment resources, technical standards, and access to professional databases and journals.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from London South Bank University’s MSc Building Services Engineering play a vital role in designing and managing the systems that make buildings safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient. The program prepares students for technical and leadership roles such as building services engineer, mechanical design engineer, sustainability consultant, and HVAC systems designer — key positions in the construction and built environment sectors.

You’ll gain a competitive edge through LSBU’s strong industry links and professional recognition:

Career support: LSBU’s Employability Service offers one-to-one career guidance, access to engineering placements, and workshops on professional chartership preparation.
Employment outcomes: LSBU has a strong reputation for employability, ranking among the top modern universities in London for graduate prospects in engineering (Guardian University Guide).
Industry partnerships: The program collaborates with major organisations such as CIBSE, Arup, Atkins, Mott MacDonald, and Buro Happold, ensuring that teaching reflects current industry standards and sustainability practices.
Professional accreditation: Fully accredited by the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) and the Energy Institute (EI), this MSc provides a recognised route toward Chartered Engineer (CEng) status — offering lasting value for global career progression.
Graduate results: Graduates go on to work with leading engineering consultancies, construction firms, and local authorities, contributing to low-carbon design, energy management, and smart building innovations.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc Building Services Engineering, students can advance to a PhD or EngD in Sustainable Building Design, Energy Systems, or Environmental Engineering at London South Bank University or other research-focused institutions. This further study option allows graduates to deepen their expertise in advanced energy technologies and sustainable building performance, preparing them for careers in research, consultancy, or academia.