Building Services Engineering BEng (Hons)

Heritage: we have been running courses for the Building Services Engineering industry since 1947.

Professional accreditation: accredited by CIBSE and the Energy Institute as meeting the academic requirements of Incorporated Engineer status.

Employability: you'll have the option to undertake a work placement in your third year.

Overview
Course Content
Teaching and Assessment
Careers
Entry Requirements
Apply
Fees

Overview

Building services engineering covers the design, installation, operation and maintenance of all the things that make a building safe, comfortable, energy efficient and functional. It’s always in demand and set to grow as buildings’ designs evolve to become more sustainable.

This course is designed to equip you with the technical, management and communication skills needed to be an effective leader of teams involved in the design of building services and energy conservation in buildings. This course is accredited by the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) and the Energy Institute as meeting the requirements for Incorporated Engineer status.

Course Content

What will I learn?

First we’ll teach you the fundamental scientific principles that support the mechanical and electrical building services. Then we’ll go more in-depth exploring how to operate and control heating, ventilation and air conditioning. In the final year we focus on sustainability: the dynamic thermal performance of buildings, energy resources, combined heat and power, wind power generation and lighting, electrical systems and distribution.

We set lots of design projects to simulate a working environment and you can expect to use computer modelling techniques to optimise and refine your design proposals.

For full-time students your third year placement gives you the chance to further hone your skills by developing real-world systems in professional environments.

Methods of assessment for course overall: 43% coursework

This Module will introduce you to the main mathematical techniques which are required in the early stages of engineering degrees. The topics include Revisions of Algebraic operations and functions, complex numbers, trigonometry, calculus, curve sketching, and matrix and vector algebra. Assessment method: 50% coursework, 50% exam.

You will be taught the underpinning skills and engineering principles relevant to mechanical and electrical building services engineering and be able to apply this contextually. Assessment method: 100% exam.

This module aims to provide you with the knowledge of the interrelationships between industry, professional bodies and education, and an understanding of key professional and research requirements. It will provide you with a roadmap for your professional career, and will enable you to prepare for employment in the construction discipline. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

The module will introduce you to the underpinning concepts, purpose and types of building services. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module is divided into three main parts: the first part will deal with the theory and practical application of acoustics; the second part will analyse the theory and practice of light and lightning theory; and the third part will deal with thermal environment and comfort. Assessment methods: 30% coursework, 70% exam.

The module introduces heating and ventilation systems. On heating systems the focus is on LPHW systems covering the operating pressure and temperatures, boilers, system efficiency, heat emitters, and pipe sizing, heating and district eating. On ventilation systems, the ventilation requirements are considered and subsequently the various types of systems ( including natural ventilation) and the component parts of ventilation systems are described and their performance is analysed. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module provides you with a study of heat transfer, fluid mechanics and thermodynamics exploring more theory to allow analysis of processes and extension into computer modelling. It also specifically covers the application of thermofluids to mechanical services used in buildings. It expands and extends the understanding gained in Engineering Principles and will enable you to design, explore and investigate. The fundamentals will be introduced by lectures and demonstrations to provide a basic knowledge of the principles of applied thermodynamics, which will then be extended to the study of systems and design. Assessment method: 100% exam.

This module covers specific mechanical services used in buildings. It expands and extends the understanding you will have gained in heating and ventilation systems and will enable you to design, explore and investigate refrigeration technology and air conditioning systems and heat pumps. The fundamentals are introduced by lectures and demonstrations to provide a basic knowledge of the principles of applied thermodynamics, which is then extended to the study of systems and design. A major emphasis will be placed on developing a practical ability and on understanding the environmental implications in the use of systems through carefully structured laboratory experiments. Assessment methods: 30% coursework, 70% exam.

Working in small groups, you'll develop a fully integrated concept design for a building, starting from the briefing and masterplanning stage. Selected elements of the concept design will be developed to a detailed design stage. The work will be carried out within the framework of Level 2 BIM with appropriate information exchanges. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module gives an overview of engineering management and covers topics such as financial principles, management of innovation, technology strategy, and project management. The focus of the module is on the development of individual skills and team work. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module is divided into two major parts: the first part will deal with intermediate circuit theory and analysis, while the second part will study electrical installation and services in buildings. Assessment methods: 30% coursework, 70% exam.

Optional placement year

Compulsory

This module examines the controls and processes that are necessary for efficient and effective operation of buildings and their engineering services. It provides an understanding of control elements and building energy management systems, and the way that information from these systems can be used to manage energy. The module also presents tools for financial analysis and reporting. Assessment methods: 60% coursework, 40% exam.

On completing this module, you'll be able to analyse a building and its world-wide location, and propose novel and effective passive methods to reduce energy consumption and improve occupant comfort. You'll understand the requirements of the wider design team and adapt and communicate your proposals appropriately. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module is a culmination of the course, where the knowledge and skills gained are applied to a specific investigation, either design or research-based. You should be able to analyse the technical performance, environmental impact and economic feasibility of the project. The results should be in a form comparable to industrial standards, based on current guidelines or regulations. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

Plus two modules from either the electrical or mechanical route:

Electrical route

This module focuses on 11kV high voltage electrical power system and Low-Voltage Distribution and equipment, focussing on their application on electrical building services. Assessment methods: 30% coursework, 70% exam.

The module is designed to equip you with up-to-date knowledge and skills to enable you to work in the design, installation, operation and maintenance of lighting and electrical systems in building services industries. Lighting will be covered as far as required to undertake design calculations and appreciate what is assumed in the use of proprietary design software packages. Assessment methods: 30% coursework, 70% exam.

Mechanical route

This module provides an advanced study of heat and mass transfer, the design of heat transfer equipment, the application of heat transfer within a building envelope and the development of the CIBSE Admittance Method used for the assessment of cooling and heating loads. It also deals with the calculation of cooling loads using commercial software, and the strategies for the reduction of energy used for cooling including thermal mass, natural ventilation, night time cooling, evaporative cooling. Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.

In relation to sustainable engineering, you'll develop a deep understanding of the principles that govern building services thermal energy systems and renewable and Low or Zero Carbon technologies. Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.

* Modules are subject to review and change throughout the year.

Teaching and Assessment

How will I learn?

Value of a BEng programme

As a BEng programme, this course provides you with the environment and guidance to acquire a deeper understanding of the essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of mechanical engineering and its underpinning science and mathematics. These core mathematic, scientific and management skills are needed to meet the requirements of Chartered Engineer status. Many recruiters will look favourably on BEng graduates for this reason.

Percentage of time spent in different learning activities
	Lectures, seminars and workshops	Self-directed study
Year 1	30%	70%
Year 2	31%	69%
Year 3	22%	78%

Personal Tutoring

As a Built Environment and Architecture student, you will be allocated a named tutor during your first three weeks at LSBU. The role of your tutor is to be your primary contact for academic support. Your personal tutor will be the same person throughout your course.

Your tutor will support you to get the most of your time at LSBU, providing advice and signposting to other sources of support in the University.

Your tutor should be the first person at the university that you speak to if you are having any difficulties that are affecting your work. These could be academic, financial, health-related or another type of problem.

You will have meetings with your personal tutor periodically. One-on-one meetings can be arranged on request. You can contact your tutor for additional support by email or in person.

Careers

What’s in it for me?

Employability Service

At LSBU, we want to set you up for a successful career. During your studies – and for two years after you graduate – you’ll have access to our Employability Service, which includes:

Free employability workshop and events for student all year round, more details can be found on our event section.
Online board where you can see a wide range of placements: part-time, full-time or voluntary. You can also drop in to see our Job Shop advisers, who are always available to help you take the next step in your search.
LSBU Careers Hub offering group workshops on CVs, interview techniques and support, guidance on future careers, as well as loads of career resources, connecting you with employers, exciting events, 1-1 support and relevant workshops.

Our Student Enterprise team can also help you start your own business and develop valuable entrepreneurial skills.

Building service engineers help buildings to deliver on their potential. They work with architects and construction engineers to produce buildings that offer the functionality and comfort we expect, with the minimum impact on our environment. They design the lighting appropriate for the space, the heating, cooling, ventilation and all systems that ensure comfort, health and safety in all types of buildings, residential, commercial and industrial.

Take a look at some potential careers, including building services engineer, on Prospects.

This course will prepare you for a career in the building services engineering industry in areas such as: design and build, contracting, consultancy, energy management, and facilities management.

BEng degrees include additional science and maths; many recruiters look favourably on BEng graduates for this reason. If you combine your BEng (Hons) Building Services Engineering with an accredited Masters, you can achieve Chartered Engineer status.

It became clear to me that industry ties with LSBU are strong. I graduated with a first class Honours degree and promotion to a permanent engineering post at work - so it was certainly worthwhile.
Cara Hobbs, Alumna, BEng Building Services Engineering

We have been running courses for the building services engineering industry since 1947 and in that time we’ve built up a lot of industry contacts. Our close links with industry ensure that our course is up-to-date with their needs – and this means our graduates are in demand.

In-sync with industry

Accreditation is a mark of assurance that the degree meets the standards set by the Engineering Council, who represent the engineering profession. This course is accredited by the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) and the Energy Institute.

Put your skills to work

The placement gives you the opportunity to spend a year in the work-place, honing your transferable skills and proving your academic learning in the development of real-world systems. During the year you’ll stay in regular contact with your tutor and your peers – and we’ll make sure that you have the support you need.

LSBU CareerSmart is your ultimate gateway to career success. Our innovative programme is designed to ensure you graduate with more than just a degree, providing the support you need to stand out in a competitive job market. We've got all the tools you need, including:

AI Powered Career Sets - Get instant personalised feedback on your CV and cover letter by submitting it via our AI powered career tool.
Gamification Interviews - Get ready to pass those interviews with unlimited training access to our gamification interviews and psychometric tests!
Personalised Career Development Dashboard - Keep up with your skills progression with free access to practical assessments, LinkedIn learning, mentoring, and industry-standard facilities.

We understand that you’re in the driver’s seat of your career, which is why we’re committed to matching your passion and energy every step of the way.

Find out more

Entry Level Requirements

112 UCAS points or equivalent level 3 qualifications.
A level Maths and Physics or equivalent.
GCSE Maths or equivalent.

If you do not meet the entry criteria above we also review any previous skills, knowledge or experience you have gained outside of your education and are happy to talk through any extenuating circumstances you feel relevant.

Visit UCAS for guidance on the tariff.

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Apply

Course delivery modes and application methods

Mode	Duration	Start date	Application code	Application method
Part-time	4.5 years	September	2090	Direct to LSBU
Full-time	3 years	September	K2J9	UCAS
Sandwich	4 years	September	K2J9	UCAS
Part-time (Year 2 entry)	3.5 years	September	5304	Direct to LSBU

International (non Home) applicants should follow our international how to apply guide.

Finance

You don't need to wait for a confirmed place on a course to start applying for student finance. Read how to pay your fees as an undergraduate student.

How to apply

Read more about how to apply for undergraduate courses.

International students

International applicants can apply directly to LSBU and should consult our international how to apply guide for further information on the application process and key dates.

Accommodation

Read more about applying for accommodation at LSBU.

Prepare to start

Applicant events

After you’ve received your offer we’ll send you emails about events we run to help you prepare for your course. You’ll also be invited to our Applicant Taster Day so keep your eyes peeled!

Enrolment

Before you start your course, we’ll send you information on what you’ll need to do before you arrive and during your first few days on campus. You can read about the process on our enrolment pages.