Sustainable Structural Engineering, Master Programme
120 creditsSustainable structural engineering is the programme for those who have an interest in designing and creating buildings that are not only functional but also sustainable. If you want to contribute to the development and design of structures that meet both today’s and future sustainability demands, then this is the programme for you.
The development in the construction industry is moving towards increasingly complex and exciting infrastructure – from tall skyscrapers to large-scale long-span structures. As sustainability becomes a key focus, engineers must integrate advanced technology and modern materials into their designs.. In this programme, you will gain an understanding of these demands and learn how to apply advanced technology and new materials to create buildings that are durable, efficient, and sustainable.
The programme is given in Växjö, and the teaching is in English, which means that you will gain experience of working in an international learning environment. After graduating from this programme, you will have broad knowledge of what is required to create long-term sustainable infrastructure. You will, for example, be able to work with:
• Advanced calculations
• Material selection for sustainable design
• Construction engineering systems
You will also gain practical experience from being involved in design projects that require your ability to think critically and solve complex problems.
Career
As a graduate from this engineering programme, you will have strong expertise in computational mechanics and sustainable construction technology, making you a good candidate to work with qualified tasks in various companies. Examples of these are both small and large consulting companies, as well as manufacturing companies that strive to develop their products and services in construction technology and sustainable enterprise development. The education also provides you with an excellent foundation for doctoral studies if you are interested in delving deeper into the research field and having an academic career.
Degree
Master of Science (120 credits) with specialisation in sustainable structural engineering.
Main field of study: Civil engineering
Programme Coordinator
Contacts
We learn how to contribute to a more sustainable future
Jenny appreciates the study environment at Linnaeus University. She thinks it is an interesting programme that gives the students a deeper understanding of the subject.
Read the interview with Jenny
- 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.
Johan works with calculations for bridges
Johan works as assistant constructor within bridge and facility construction at WSP in Växjö. A job he was able to get thanks to the contacts he established with the company during his time as a student at Linnaeus University.
Read the interview
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.
FAQ
What are the key subjects and topics covered in the sustainable structural engineering master's programme?
The sustainable structural engineering master’s programme covers core subjects such as advanced structural mechanics, sustainable material technology, and structural analysis and design. Key topics include energy-efficient design, lifecycle analysis, green building strategies, and the use of sustainable composites. The program also explores innovative construction methods, BIM, environmental impact assessment, and resilience-focused areas like earthquake and wind engineering.
What are the current trends and challenges in sustainable structural engineering that the programme focuses on?
The programme focuses on current trends such as advanced composites, digital modeling, biomimicry, modular construction, and the use of AI in structural design. It also addresses challenges like adapting to climate change, reducing carbon footprints, integrating renewable energy systems, and maintaining structural integrity with eco-friendly materials.
What career paths and influential roles can I pursue after completing this programme in sustainable structural engineering?
Graduates of the sustainable structural engineering master’s programme can pursue careers as structural engineers in green building projects, sustainable design consultants, or project managers for eco-friendly developments. Opportunities also exist in governmental agencies, NGOs, or private firms focused on sustainable infrastructure, as well as in research, academia, policy-making, and entrepreneurial ventures within sustainable technologies.
Växjö – the student city with a vibrant campus
Just south of Växjö city centre lies Campus Växjö. Many students choose to live on campus.
Here you have friends, restaurants, lecture halls, gyms, a supermarket, the university library, outdoor recreation areas, and student pubs – all within a five-minute walk. You can also live in other parts of Växjö and easily reach the university by bike or bus.
With nearly 100 000 inhabitants, Växjö is one of Sweden’s fastest-growing cities. It has a strong Småland entrepreneurial spirit and a diverse business sector – perfect when you’re looking for a placement, an internship, or a job.
Växjö is also a scenic city, where you’re always close to forests and lakes, and it offers plenty of events and experiences, ranging from music and food to sports.