When you choose a degree accredited by the most influential professional body in the world for those working in the built environment, you’re sending a clear message about your commitment to maintaining the highest standards.

Here, we explore more of the benefits of studying a master’s endorsed by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). 

Who is the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB)? 

The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) represents over 50,000 construction management and leadership professionals based in more than 100 countries. Providing insight to education, policy and practice worldwide, it has been championing the science and execution of building and construction for the benefit of society since 1834. Granted a Royal Charter in 1980, its Chartered Member status, accomplished through a combination of experience and education, is now recognised and respected internationally.  

What is a CIOB-accredited course? 

As part of its commitment to train, shape and support those within the construction industry, the CIOB has developed a framework of educational requirements designed to reflect the needs of the global construction industry.

By formally accrediting specific courses offered by universities and colleges, the CIOB is effectively giving its seal of approval that the programme is designed to equip you with the highest levels of competence and professionalism, alongside the most up-to-date skills and knowledge to succeed in your career. 

What is the CIOB framework for master’s degree programmes? 

The Education Framework sets out the CIOB published standards for higher education awards in construction management in the UK and across the world at both undergraduate and postgraduate level.

All accredited master’s programmes, for example, must prepare their graduates to: exhibit critical thinking and creativity; demonstrate complex problem solving and decision-making;  demonstrate effective communication skills; demonstrate competency in the use of computer applications; and demonstrate leadership and performance management skills. 

What does CIOB accreditation mean for me?  

A CIOB-accredited qualification provides global recognition of your capability and competence, reassuring future employers, clients and other professionals procuring built assets that you reflect the high educational standards set by the CIOB.

Undertaking an accredited postgraduate course also guarantees a route to full membership (MCIOB) of the Institute. Once you have gained three to five years’ relevant work experience, successful completion of a CIOB-accredited master’s degree gives you full academic exemption and allows you to proceed to Chartered Membership without the requirement for an individual assessment. As a Chartered member, you can add ‘MCIOB’ after your name. 

Why should I obtain Chartered status?  

The ‘Chartered’ title is only given to professionals who have met the criteria to become a member of a Chartered Institution which is incorporated with a Royal Charter. The benefit of Chartered organisations is that they adhere to a set of rules, standards and disciplinary regulations designed to ensure consistency, quality and safety.

Adding the letters ‘MCIOB’ after your name allows employers to quickly see you have reached a certain level of professionalism, knowledge and experience. Furthermore, a simple job search shows that most construction and project management roles have a pre-requisite of Chartership in CIOB or an equivalent professional body.  

Can I join CIOB as a student?  

Student CIOB membership is available for those who are studying a CIOB-accredited programme full or part-time and will give you access to a collection of construction-related online journals and e-books which can be accessed anywhere in the world, day or night.

You’ll gain free or discounted access to CPD (continuing professional development) and networking events, providing unique opportunities to network with CIOB’s cross-membership community, all of whom are focused on building professionalism and enhancing the pipeline of high-quality construction talent.  

About our CIOB-accredited MSc Project Management for Construction 

On our two-year, part-time MSc Project Management for Construction, you'll examine construction project management from all angles, developing the professional skills to tackle the technical, organisational, commercial, legal and financial issues that arise when managing projects across the construction sector.  

Building your industry knowledge and learning how to best integrate the diverse members of project teams, you’ll explore various project management processes, tools and techniques to ensure projects run smoothly and achieve a successful outcome. 

You can start our two-year part-time MSc in January, May, July, September and November: