Building Services Engineering BSc/BEng/MEng

Building Services Engineering focuses on the design, installation and maintenance of the systems that make buildings safe, comfortable and efficient. This includes heating, ventilation, air conditioning, lighting, power supply, fire safety and renewable energy technologies. A degree in this field equips you with specialist technical knowledge and management skills to work on projects ranging from residential housing to hospitals, schools and major commercial developments.

Course Structure

A Building Services Engineering degree usually lasts three years full time for a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) or Bachelor of Science (BSc). Some universities also offer a four-year programme that includes a placement year or an integrated Master of Engineering (MEng). Courses combine lectures, lab sessions and design projects with practical workshops and, in many cases, site visits or industry placements.

Typical Modules

Modules vary by university but typically include:

• Mechanical and electrical building systems

• Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC)

• Lighting and power distribution

• Renewable energy systems and sustainability

• Fire safety engineering and risk management

• Building information modelling (BIM) and digital design

• Control systems and smart technologies

• Construction management and project delivery

• Engineering mathematics and design principles

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In your final year, you will usually complete a major project that applies your technical and design skills to a real-world problem.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements differ between institutions but most expect:

• A levels including mathematics or physics, or equivalent qualifications such as BTECs in Engineering or the International Baccalaureate

• GCSEs in English, mathematics and science at grade C/4 or above

• Strong numeracy and problem-solving ability

Mature students with relevant industry experience are often encouraged to apply.

The Right Personality Fit

This course is well suited to students who are practical, analytical and interested in sustainability. Strong mathematical and problem-solving skills are essential, as is the ability to think creatively about efficient and environmentally friendly building solutions. Teamwork, communication and leadership qualities are also valuable, since building services engineers collaborate with architects, civil engineers and contractors on complex projects.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of Building Services Engineering can work in a variety of roles, such as:

• Building services engineer (mechanical, electrical or public health)

• Sustainability and energy consultant

• Design engineer for HVAC, lighting or renewable energy systems

• Project manager in construction or facilities management

• Fire safety or building control engineer

Career opportunities exist in consultancy firms, construction companies, local authorities and specialist engineering services providers. Many graduates work toward Chartered Engineer (CEng) or Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status through professional bodies such as CIBSE (Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers).

Typical Pay After Graduation

Starting salaries for building services engineering graduates are typically between £26,000 and £32,000. With experience, earnings rise to £40,000 to £50,000. Chartered engineers, consultants and project managers in this field often earn £55,000 to £65,000, with senior roles in large-scale or international projects paying more.