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The University of East London (UEL) and the Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) are offering a joint
programme of study and practical activity leading to an MSc degree. The course examines the relationship between
human beings and the environment and in particular offers an ecological perspective on building. It ranges from a global
examination of energy provision, consumption and climate change, resource provision and waste disposal, to local
environmental considerations affecting occupant health and well being; choice of materials with environmental constraints;
environmental design; design for energy efficiency and the principles and practice of renewable energies. The course has
two parts; the first on environment and energy fundamentals, the second on building in an environmental and
social context and consists of ten, five day residential sessions called Units, held at CAT. These run
every month except August and December. Students choose eight of the ten units on offer and can choose whether
to complete the Units at CAT or by Distance Learning. One year full time, two years part time; students choose
which Units to attend in any one year. The course is suitable for all those with an interest in developing
expertise in an area of rapidly increasing importance and where skill shortages are being reported. The course offers an
opportunity for those within a career change and/or needing to upgrade their skill, and welcomes those who have
experienced significant breaks in their education. The course is open to students with a wide range of
experiential and educational backgrounds who are expected to have a degree and an intense interest in the subject,
mature students who do not possess formal qualifications but have been engaged in activities that are relevant
and/or considered likely to benefit from the course, may be accepted subject to interview. Course work is expected
following each Unit; the course is completed by writing a 15,000 word thesis. All units have a practical
content; students may join the course in September or March. Course materials, food and accommodation while at
CAT are included in the course fee. An extended version of the course to give exemption from the requirement of the
RIBA part II examination is currently being developed. The course is accredited by the Energy Institute and
selected units are offered via the RIBA CPD providers network.
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