Where you can study
International students
International students are not New Zealand citizens or residents.
Specialise in Without Specialisation for your Master of Construction at Massey
The Master of Construction at Massey University is a unique degree. It focuses on building in-depth knowledge of specific aspects of construction. It is the only qualification in New Zealand that has specifically developed postgraduate construction courses.
This master’s qualification builds on Massey’s bachelor's degree in construction – the only one offered in New Zealand.
120-credit option
You can complete the Master of Construction with 120 credits of study if you enter via one of these Advanced Entry pathways:
- a Bachelor of Construction plus two years of post-study professional experience; or
- a Bachelor of Construction (Honours); or
- a four-year Bachelor with Honours degree in a construction-related field.
Planning information
If you study full-time, you’ll take 120 credits per year or 60 credits per semester.
If you enter the Master of Construction (Coursework pathway) with a Bachelor of Construction plus two years of professional experience, or Bachelor of Construction (Honours), or four year Bachelor with Honours degree, your qualification will consist of 120 credits including a 45 credit research report.
If you choose to take the ‘without specialisation’ option, you can select your courses from Schedule A (Subjects), Schedule B (Electives) and Schedule C (Research).
The programme of study for the Master of Construction without a specialisation must include 218717 for the Coursework pathway, and both 218717 and 218718 for the Thesis pathway.
For progression from Part One to Part Two of the Master of Construction (Coursework pathway) you achieve a minimum B grade average over the first 60 credits in Part One.
For progression from Part One to Part Two of the Master of Construction (Thesis pathway) you must achieve a minimum B+ grade average over the first 60 credits in Part One.
Official regulations
To understand what you need to study and must complete to graduate read the official rules and regulations for this qualification.
You should read these together with all other relevant Statutes and Regulations of the University including the General Regulations for Postgraduate Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas, and Postgraduate Certificates.
Returning students
For returning students, there may be changes to the majors and minors available and the courses you need to take. Go to the section called ‘Transitional Provisions’ in the Regulations to find out more.
In some cases the qualification or specialisation you enrolled in may no longer be taking new enrolments, so may not appear on these web pages. To find information on the regulations for these qualifications go to the Massey University Calendar.
Please contact us through the Get advice button on this page if you have any questions.
Courses you can enrol in
Course planning key
- Prerequisites
- Courses that need to be completed before moving onto a course at the next level. For example, a lot of 200-level courses have 100-level prerequisite courses.
- Corequisites
- Courses that must be completed at the same time as another course are known as corequisite courses.
- Restrictions
- Some courses are restricted against each other because their content is similar. This means you can only choose one of the offered courses to study and credit to your qualification.
Part One
Compulsory courses
Coursework pathway
Course code: 218717 Research Methods in Built Environment credits 15
This course develops skills critical to the analysis, synthesis and review of literature; discusses a range of research methodologies; reviews tools and techniques for data collection; examines data analysis techniques and their application in construction research; and outlines the evaluation of research findings.
View full course detailsThesis pathway
Course code: 218717 Research Methods in Built Environment credits 15
This course develops skills critical to the analysis, synthesis and review of literature; discusses a range of research methodologies; reviews tools and techniques for data collection; examines data analysis techniques and their application in construction research; and outlines the evaluation of research findings.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218718 Advanced Research Methods in Built Environment credits 15
This course addresses the development of research skills required for advanced research in the built environment, from developing a research proposal, reviewing literature and applying analytical processes through to the key features of scientific reporting of findings.
View full course detailsCourse code: 114702 Human Resource Management and Workplace Relations credits 30
This course introduces the area of Human Resource Management and Workplace Relations. Specifically, the focus of the course is on the principles and practices associated with organisational behaviour, employment relations, human resources management and development.
View full course detailsCourse code: 127702 Sustainable Property Development credits 15
A study of the theory and practice of sustainable property development.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218710 Advanced Construction Planning and Scheduling credits 15
Advanced principles and practice of construction project planning, scheduling and risk analysis.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218712 Building Information Modelling Practices credits 15
This course equips students with the knowledge of Building Information Modelling (BIM) development and management and enables students to apply a range of BIM tools across the lifecycle of a building project. This course is suitable for construction professionals and stakeholders.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218713 Digital Technology Applications in Construction credits 15
A study of current application of digital technologies within the construction industry. The course includes the approaches to developing digital technologies that can be applied at all stages of a project’s lifecycle.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218714 Sustainable Buildings and Structures credits 15
Strategies and techniques of sustainable design and construction for the built environment, including green procurement, Design for Excellence (DfX), construction techniques and practice, zero-carbon buildings, constructability and operation and maintenance considerations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218715 Sustainability and Climate Change for Construction Industry credits 15
Climate change presents specific challenges to the domestic and international construction industry, requiring innovations during the entire lifecycle of projects. This course introduces students to aspects of climate change, principles of sustainability, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals relevant to the built environment. It focuses on the specific implications of climate change for the construction industry and ways in which the industry can take leadership in promoting sustainability.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218716 International Construction credits 15
Globalisation and booming regional economies are creating a need for construction professionals who are aware of both local and international construction markets and practices, and who are capable of managing complex construction operations. This course details the critical issues and concepts relevant to managing projects in an international context, such as marketing, negotiations, project procurement, financing, law and contracts, industry regulations, human resources, communications, safety, and risk management.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218720 Advanced Construction Site Operations and Control credits 15
Advanced principles and practice of construction project site planning and organisation, site operations, progress monitoring and control.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218730 Construction Project Management credits 15
Advanced construction project management principles and practice.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218741 Light & Lighting credits 15
This course considers photometric concepts and develops the principles of light control and distribution. Human visual processes are considered and colour science is introduced.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218742 Lamps and Luminaires credits 15
This course develops the principles of light production as applied to lamps and considers the application of lamps in lighting design. The requirements for lamp control gear are considered together with the application of optical control to achieve accurate and efficient distribution of luminous flux. Methods of photometric testing of lamps and luminaires will be investigated.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218743 Interior Lighting Design credits 15
This course develops the principles of interior lighting design. The human requirements and statutory regulations are investigated. Lighting designs are undertaken to demonstrate the techniques involved. The utilisation of daylight to enhance lighting installations and assist with energy savings is considered. Creative lighting techniques are investigated.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218744 Energy Efficient Lighting and Exterior Lighting Design credits 15
This course considers the efficiency of lamps and luminaires in producing and distributing luminous flux. Lighting controls for energy saving applications are investigated. Principles of exterior lighting for work places are considered and the flood lighting of building facades is developed. The design of landscape lighting for commercial and public spaces is undertaken. The statutory requirements for, and the techniques associated with, road way and pedestrian lighting are considered. The design of lighting for sports grounds is undertaken.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218763 Advanced Construction Law credits 15
Principles of construction law including construction professional liability, formation, drafting and interpreting construction contracts, and application of construction law principles on issues relating to time, payment, quality, subcontracting, termination of contracts, and alternative dispute resolution.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218764 Construction Contracts and Administration credits 15
Specialist areas of construction law including contractual risk analysis, comparative construction contracts, construction contract administration, and specialist topical areas such as modern plain English drafting, subcontracting, and modern methods of resolving disputes.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218765 Construction Adjudication credits 15
Statutory adjudication in Commonwealth jurisdictions with a focus on the law and practice of adjudication under the New Zealand Contracts Act 2002 and subsequent amendments including the adjudicator’s appointment, jurisdiction, duties, powers and adjudicator’s determination.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218769 Energy-Efficient Building Design credits 15
This course examines approaches to reducing energy consumption in residential and commercial buildings resulting from the design and use of the building and its energy services. The course covers the principles of energy-efficient building design as well as use and interpretation of energy and sustainability audits. Identification of options for reducing energy use through renovation and retrofitting as well as occupant behaviour are also covered.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218770 Advanced Construction Technology credits 15
Construction industry operations, systems and technology including the project life cycle, key stakeholders, sustainable buildings, smart living spaces, innovation, lean production, offsite construction, logistics and current trends.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218780 Quantity Surveying Practice credits 15
Pre contract Quantity Surveying practice including feasibility, preliminary estimates, cost plans, cash flow forecasting, life cycle costing and measurement.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218781 Construction Financial Administration credits 15
Post- contract financial administration of construction projects including construction procurement and tendering, interim payments, variations, claims, and final accounts.
View full course detailsPart Two
Coursework pathway (45 credits from)
Course code: 218810 Research Report credits 45
A detailed examination of a specific researchable topic within the field of construction. The course provides the opportunity for the student to demonstrate independence and originality to solve a construction-related problem requiring analytical, design and experimental effort.
View full course detailsThesis pathway (90 credits from)
Course code: 218828 Thesis 90 Credit Part 1 credits 45
A supervised independent research in the built environment resulting in a research thesis.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218829 Thesis 90 Credit Part 2 credits 45
A supervised independent research in the built environment resulting in a research thesis.
View full course detailsCourse code: 218830 Thesis credits 90
A detailed examination of a specific researchable topic within the field of construction. The course provides the opportunity for the student to demonstrate independence and originality to solve a construction-related problem requiring analytical, design and experimental effort.
View full course detailsEntry requirements
Admission to Massey
All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.
Specific requirements
To enter the Master of Construction (thesis pathway) you will:
- have been awarded or qualified for a construction related four year Bachelor with Honours degree or a Bachelor of Construction (Honours) or equivalent qualification with a minimum grade average of B over the contributing courses for the Honours year; or
- have been awarded or qualified for a relevant Bachelor’s degree followed by a relevant Postgraduate Certificate with a minimum grade average of B+ over the contributing courses for the Postgraduate Certificate, or equivalent.
To enter the Master of Construction (coursework pathway) you will::
- have been awarded or qualified for the Bachelor of Construction or equivalent qualification with a minimum grade average of B across the highest level courses; or
- have been awarded or qualified for the Bachelor of Construction or equivalent qualification and have completed at least two years of relevant post-study professional experience; or
- have been awarded or qualified for a construction related four year Bachelor with Honours degree or a Bachelor of Construction (Honours) or equivalent qualification; or
- have been awarded or qualified for the Bachelor of Construction followed by the Postgraduate Diploma in Construction or equivalent qualification with a minimum grade average of B over the contributing courses for the Postgraduate Diploma; or
- have been awarded or qualified for a relevant Bachelor’s degree followed by a relevant Postgraduate Certificate with a minimum grade average of B over the contributing courses for the Postgraduate Certificate, or equivalent.
If you are admitted into the thesis pathway, or the coursework pathway under 3, 4 or 5 above, you may apply for credit towards Part One of the qualification.
English language requirements
To study this qualification you must meet Massey University's English language standards.
Documents you will need to supply to support your application:
- copies of all official academic transcripts for studies taken at all universities other than Massey University
- a copy of your current curriculum vitae (CV) including education and employment for at least the last five years if you are applying on the basis of a bachelor degree and professional experience
- a short summary of your research interests (200 words or less). Required if you intend to take the research pathway.
English language skills
If you need help with your English language skills before you start university, see our English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses.
Fees and scholarships
Fees, student loans and free fees scheme
Your tuition fees may be different depending on the courses you choose. Your exact fees will show once you have chosen your courses.
There will also be some compulsory non-tuition fees and for some courses, there may also be charges for things such as study resources, software, trips and contact workshops.
- Get an estimate of the tuition fees for your qualification
- View a list of non-tuition fees that may be payable
Already know which courses you're going to choose?
You can view fees for the courses that make up your qualification on the course details pages.
Student loans (StudyLink) and Fees Free scheme
You may be eligible for a student loan to help towards paying your fees.
The New Zealand Government offers fees-free tertiary study for eligible domestic students. Find out more about the scheme and your eligibility on the Fees Free website. To use the site's eligibility checking tool, you will need your National Student Number.
Current and returning Massey students can find their National Student Number in the student portal.
- Student loans (StudyLink)
- Fees Free
- Student portal
Scholarship and award opportunities
Search our scholarships and awardsFees disclaimer
This information is for estimation purposes only. Actual fees payable will be finalised on confirmation of enrolment. Unless otherwise stated, all fees shown are quoted in New Zealand dollars and include Goods and Services Tax, if any. Before relying on any information on these pages you should also read the University's Disclaimer Notice.
International students
New Zealand is a great place to study. Massey University’s reputation is supported by our international rankings, accreditations and associations. We are rated 5-star plus by the QS World University Rankings.
Massey University has small class sizes, and our lecturers and staff are friendly and approachable.
As an international student, there are entry requirements that will apply to you. We recommend that you apply at least three months before your anticipated start date so your application can be processed in time. There are additional steps you will need to take. These include obtaining a visa and travel bookings if your study is to be in New Zealand.
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Useful planning information
Key information for students
Compare qualifications and academic information across different New Zealand institutions. Learn more on careers.govt.nz