Sustainable Structural Engineering, Master Programme

- I studied Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Building Technology at Linnaeus University and wanted to expand my knowledge. I really enjoyed my studies at Linnaeus University and, therefore, it felt natural for me to apply here once more for my Master´s degree.

Jenny appreciates the study environment at the university and the way in which the programme is structured.

- It’s a good environment that encourages students to learn more. Usually, we study two courses at a time. The courses include lectures, exercises and seminars. We often work in projects and then complete the course with an examination. I find it interesting that the programme focuses on construction, which means that we get a deeper understanding of the subject.

She is truly happy with her decision to study this programme.

- I believe this programme is perfect if you are interested in working as a construction engineer or if you would like to do research within the field. I enjoy in particular the focus on wooden constructions. I am really happy with my choice of education.

Jenny enjoys life on campus.

- It’s really good! I like life on campus, and I have made friends for life.

As Johan was studying to become an engineer, he realised the importance of establishing contacts with companies. This was also useful when he wrote his thesis.

“When I wrote my engineering thesis on construction technology, WSP bridge & water constructions in Malmö was my supervisor, together with Linnaeus University. Once my degree project was finished, I contacted the company”, says Johan.

As it turned out, WSP was about to open a group for bridge & water construction in Växjö, which was a field within which Johan wanted to work.

“My course mate and I decided to write our master’s thesis on wooden bridges. Our project was conducted with supervision both from Linnaeus University and from WSP in Växjö. In connection to our writing of the thesis, I was offered a job at WSP, first as an hourly-paid employee and then, after I graduated, on a probationary period. The probationary period was then turned into a permanent employment”, Johan explains.

Today, he works as assistant constructor within bridge & facility construction, which was his goal from the beginning. His workdays can vary quite a lot.

“Some workdays can consist only of calculations and modelling. For instance, dimensioning of different construction parts or analyses in finite element programs. Other days may consist of investigative work. For instance, creating an overview at an early stage of what will have an impact and what must be taken into account in the planning and design stage for a new bridge or other construction. Sometimes, there are also enriching meetings with people who are part of the same project as I am. I take an active part at these meetings and learn how to tackle the next step in the process. At these meetings, we have a dialogue on where we stand and whether there are any problems that we can solve together”, Johan continues.

Johan thinks that the programme is fitting for those who would like to gain in-depth knowledge about construction technology or learn the finite element method. You should also be interested in mathematics and physics, as the courses are theoretical. Johan has had use of the knowledge he acquired on the programme in his professional life.

“I’ve really had a lot of use of all the building mechanics, dimensioning of concrete, steel and wood, and parts of the finite element method. However, the most useful thing has probably been the problem-solving that was a prominent part of all courses on the programme”, says Johan.

The sustainability perspective is also a natural part on some of the courses on the programme, which contributes with new knowledge to the construction sector.

“Considering the challenges we are facing right now relating to the climate, I think that this programme really stands out as it trains constructors to think more sustainably. This gives me the opportunity to contribute to reducing the climate impact from the construction sector”, Johan explains.

The master’s programme has opened up different professional paths for Johan and he is positive about the future.

“I can see that, having the education that I have, there is a lot of opportunity for continuing professional development within a number of fields. For instance, if I would like to conduct research or change focus entirely later on and start working with something else in the construction sector, there are lots of opportunities for me”, Johan concludes.