Net Zero Building Services Engineering

Qualification(s) available: MSc

Fees for the 2025-26 academic year
UK: £12,500
International: £25,500
Scholarships available
Entry requirements
2:2 (55%)
Full-time
1 year or 2 years with placement
Part-time
2-5 years
Location
Loughborough
Start date
October 2025
Department
Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering

This programme was formerly known as MSc Low Energy Building Services Engineering.

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Are you passionate about creating a sustainable future? Make a difference and become an expert in designing and engineering energy-efficient buildings.

Why choose our fully accredited Net Zero Building Services Engineering MSc programme at Loughborough University? 

  • Grow fundamental skills. Develop your confidence in communication, information technology, creative problem-solving, numeracy, mathematics, critical appraisal, teamwork and managing workloads.
  • Learn from the experts. As an integrated school, we provide decades of experience and strong industry connections, so we can ensure you receive a top-quality education.
  • Gain practical skills. Build your hands-on knowledge in in low-energy building design, digital twins, HVAC systems, and much more. Explore innovative programming and coding skills using software such as IES, Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Python. Hear the latest innovations and technologies for smart net zero buildings.
  • Create effective networking skills. Connect with professionals from leading companies and organisations in the UK or overseas such as the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). Participate in prestigious international net zero competitions and attend conferences.
  • Pursue exciting career opportunities. Graduates are highly sought after by top employers in the field. Embark on placements with well-established connections. Being accredited means you can fast track and qualify for Chartered Engineer status (CEng). 

Make a difference. Grow your skills and knowledge and contribute to a sustainable future. 

Students join industry experts at Loughborough's first Passivhaus development

Loughborough's School of Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering students had the chance to visit Loughborough's first Passivhaus development on campus and hear from industry experts in charge of the project.

Why you should choose us

1st in the UK for Research Quality in Town and Country Planning and Landscape The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
1st in the UK for Research Quality in Building The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
3rd in the UK for Graduate Prospects Outcome in Building Complete University Guide 2025
1st in the UK for Building The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
5 stars Awarded for Teaching International QS Stars Scheme 2023

Why you should study this degree

Loughborough’s NZBSE programme covers a broad range of topics and therefore equips you for a fulfilling and successful career.

There is a high demand for sustainable experts in today’s world so you can be sure there will be opportunities to put your learning into practice. 

  • You will achieve further certificates for BREEAM and Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC). 
  • Loughborough’s NZBSE graduates have won prestigious awards, including the CIBSE ASHRAE Graduate of the Year. 
  • Utilise our large 3,000m2 state-of-the-art labs and high-performance computing resources with specialised tuition to guide you. 
  • Two scholarships by Vexo International and ASHRAE UK Midlands Chapter, each worth £1,000, are awarded directly to students at the beginning of the year. 
Alekhya

Alekhya

We had the opportunity to participate in the ASHRAE competition, where we employed new low energy techniques to make a building more energy efficient. I was part of the team that represented Loughborough University on a global scale.
Abdul

Abdul

The programme has provided me with the knowledge necessary to implement more sustainability in the built environment sector, a skill that is in demand to reduce carbon emissions in buildings.
Joshua on graduation day

Joshua

I got an internship offer from Mitsubishi Electric R&D Centre Europe in Scotland. My duties involved analysing the indoor environmental quality data and evaluating the thermal comfort and indoor air quality in their office space.

This programme explores different processes of tackling climate change through sustainable and low-energy heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) design. We aim to create a new generation of building services engineers that can use their knowledge of new technologies to improve the energy performance of buildings and the wellbeing of occupants.

Professor Mahroo Eftekhari Programme Director

Professional recognition

Gain a professionally recognised NZBSE degree from Loughborough, a university renowned for excellence.

As a premier institution in Sustainable Building Design, recognised as one of four Royal Academy of Engineering Centres of Excellence in the UK, we offer unparalleled opportunities for aspiring engineers.

Our close ties with ASHRAE ensure you're at the forefront of the industry, with access to scholarships and international competitions. 

Loughborough's global reputation for excellence and accreditation by CIBSE and The Energy Institute mean you can accelerate your career path and become a Chartered Engineer (CEng).  

And our commitment to quality education ensures a safe, reliable, and enriching learning experience. 

What you'll study

The following information is intended as an example only and is typically based on module information for the 2024/25 year of entry. Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes. Updated Programme and Module Specifications are made available ahead of each academic year. Please also see Terms and Conditions of Study for more information.

All the School’s teaching is delivered by inspirational team of research experts. 

You will learn how to design, consult on and commission energy-efficient buildings using the latest technology. You’ll become an expert in implementing HVAC system for low-energy buildings. 

Compulsory modules

The aim of this module is for the student

  • to understand the factors that influence the environmental quality of the indoor environment including occupant thermal comfort, the visual and acoustic comfort and air quality.
  • to understand the statistical uncertainty associated with the number of samples taken in an occupant survey of thermal comfort.

 



The aim of this module is for the student to understand the principles of building thermal loads and systems and apply this knowledge to the solution of complex design problems.

The aims of this module are for the student to:

  • Understand the principles of building thermal modelling, building performance simulation and Building Information Modelling (BIM).
  • Gain a perspective on the applications of these techniques to the design process of low energy buildings.

The aims of this module are for the student to become familiar with and comprehend the wide range of research methods and skills needed to investigate, understand, communicate and execute a research project.

More information to follow.

Compulsory modules

The aim of this module is for the student to understand the principles of electrical and power distribution systems in buildings and electrical renewable generation technologies, and apply this knowledge to the solution of complex electrical design.

The aim of this module is for the student to be provided with a practical foundation in system design and analysis, by developing the students' understanding of thermal plant in buildings including air conditioning systems, district heating, CHP and systems for heat recovery.

The module introduces the processes and principles of low energy and net zero carbon building design and modelling and, also, an overview of assessment methods and standards to specify and measure the performance of buildings.

More information to follow.

Optional module (choose one)

The aims of this module are for the student to understand the application of automatic control and smart meters in energy monitoring and commissioning and to examine the control problems in buildings and develop control strategies that will improve thermal comfort and building energy use.

The aim of this module is to develop students' understanding of the principles of design management and techniques for cost and value management.

The creation, deployment and use of aggregated and integrated (Level 2) models are key goals of collaboration through BIM. This module aims to deliver hands-on practical skills on the use of BIM technologies (i.e. design software and collaboration tools) for creation and collaboration of federated/aggregated 3D BIM models. The theories of group working; workspace awareness and shared situational awareness within design teams/processes will be explored.

Compulsory modules

More information to follow.

How you'll be assessed

As you study, you will be required to undertake assignments. There are normally two or three assessments to undertake for each module, parts of which may be practical-based and/or groupwork-based. The weighting of marks differs for each assessment.

How you'll study

  • Lectures
  • Seminars
  • Tutorials
  • Independent study
  • Group work
  • Workshops
  • Laboratory work
  • Practical sessions

Where you'll study

We have recently invested £6 million in building expansion and development, which includes new dedicated study areas and computer resources.

You will benefit from access to our excellent facilities, including our 3,000 square-metre laboratory and one of the fastest high-performance computing clusters in the UK.

3d concrete printing
3D Concrete Printing
building energy lab
Building Energy Lab
concrete preparation lab
Concrete Preparation Lab
geotechnics lab
Geotechnics Lab
heavy structures lab
Heavy Structures Lab
hydraulic engineering lab
Hydraulic Engineering Lab
hydraulic engineering teaching
Hydraulic Engineering Teaching
structural testing lab
Structural Testing Lab
wide shallow depth channel
Wide Shallow Depth Channel

Entry requirements

Our entry requirements are listed using standard UK undergraduate degree classifications i.e. first-class honours, upper second-class honours and lower second-class honours. To learn the equivalent for your country, please choose it from the drop-down below.

Entry requirements for United Kingdom

A 2:2 (55%) honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) in a subject related to the built environment. Membership of professional institution may be considered in lieu of degree.

First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Masters 95% 85% 70%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Diplomë e Nivelit të Pare (First Level (University) Diploma (from 2010) 9.5 8.5 8
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Licence (4 year) / Diplome d'Inginieur d'Etat / Diplôme d'Etudes Supérieures 16 14 12
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Licenciatura/ Licenciado (4 year) 8.5 7.5 6.0
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Bakalavri Kochum required but typically a Magistrosi Kochum 90% or 3.9 80% or 3.5 70% or 3.0
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Honours degree (AQF level 8) First Class, 80% Upper Second, 70%, H2A Lower Second, 60%, H2B
Ordinary degree - AQF Level 7 pass (mark 46 or 50) High Distinction (80% or 85%) Distinction (75% or 80%) Distinction (70% or 75%)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Degree / Diplomstudium / Fachhochschuldiplom (Diplom (FH)) A (or 1.5) mit Auszeichnungbestanden 60% / B / (or 2) 60% / B / (or 2)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Bakalavr Diplomu/ Diplomu (Specialist Diploma) 4.5 or 90% 4 or 80% 3.5 or 70%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Degree from University of the West Indies only 1st (GPA 3.6) 2:1 (GPA 3.0) 2:2 (GPA 2.5)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
GPA 4.0 scale 3.5 3.0 2.8
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
4 year Bachelor of Science in Engineering (IEB and BAETE accredited courses only) 1st (70%) / 3.5 2nd (60%) / 3.0 2nd (55%) / 2.75
Masters (1-2 years) following a 3 or 4 year degree 80% / 4.0 65% / 3.25 50% / 2.5
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
University of the West Indies, Honours degree 1st (GPA 3.6) 2:1 (GPA 3.0) 2:2 (GPA 2.5)
Barbados Community College 1st or GPA 3.75 2:1 or GPA 3.5 2:2 or GPA 3.0
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Specialist Diploma (5Yr) 9 7 5
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Bachelor degree/Licenciaat/Licencie 80% or 17 70% or 14 60% or 12
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Degree from University of the West Indies only 1st (GPA 3.6) 2:1 (GPA 3.0) 2:2 (GPA 2.5)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Maitrise 18 15 or Bien 12 or Assez Bien
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Degree from University of the West Indies only 1st (GPA 3.6) 2:1 (GPA 3.0) 2:2 (GPA 2.5)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
A Licenciado, 4 years Private (public/private) 85/78 75/66 67/55
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Diploma Visokog Obrazovanja / Diplomirani 10 9 8
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Master's degree A or 80% B or 70% C or 60%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Brazil - 4 yr Bacharel or Licenciado/Licenciatura or Título Profissional 8.5 7.5 6.5
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Brunei First Upper Second (60%/B/3.1) Lower Second (50% or C or 2.5)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
5 yr Diploma za Zavarsheno Visshe Obrazovanie (Diploma of Completed Higher Education) 6 5 4
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Masters or Diplôme d'Études Approfondies or Diplôme Ingénieur (professional title) 18 15/20 (Bien) 12.5/20 (Assez Bien)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Masters 80% or B+ or 3.5 70% or B or 3.0 60% or C+ or 2.5
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Bachelor degree or Diplome d'Etudes Superiures de Commerce or Diplome d'Ingenieur or Diplôme d'Ingénieur de Conception or a Maitrise, 4 year Licence or Master 1 (M1) 1st / 3.6 or 15/Tres Bien 2:1 / GPA 3.0 or 14 / Bien 2:2 / GPA 2.5 or 12.5/ Assez Bien
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
GPA 4.0/Percentage 3.7/85% 3.3/75% 2.7/68%
Out of 9 8 6 5
Out of 12 10 8 6
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Grado de Licenciado / Título (Profesional) de [subject area] (4 years) 6 5.5 5

Students are required to have a bachelor degree (4 years) for entry to a postgraduate programme. The University uses the Shanghai Academic Ranking of World Universities to identify the required final mark, as outlined on the table below:

First class (70%) Mid 2:1 (65%) 2:1 (60%) Mid 2:2 (55%) 2:2 (50%)
Shanghai Rank Top 250 83% 79% 75% 73% 70%
Shanghai Rank 251-500 88% 84% 80% 78% 75%
Shanghai Rank 501+ 92% 87% 84% 82% 80%

The University will consider students from Affiliated Colleges in the following way:

Applicants from colleges affiliated to universities in the top 250 Shanghai rankings will be considered if they have achieved or are likely to achieve final marks of 75%-84%.

Applicants from colleges affiliated to universities which are 251-500 in the Shanghai rankings will be considered if they have achieved or are likely to achieve final marks of 80%-87%.

Applicants from colleges affiliated to universities which are above 500 in the Shanghai rankings will be considered as follows:

  • School of Business and Economics: not considered
  • All other programmes if they have achieved or are likely to achieve final marks of 80%-87%.

Applicants from a small number of Chinese universities that specialise in business, management, finance or creative arts will be given special consideration by the University. The full list of these universities and the Shanghai band under which they will be considered can be found below:

Table of Chinese universities for special consideration

‌*Special consideration for programmes in School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences and Institute for Sport Business only.

Students who do not meet the above requirements may occasionally be considered if they have a relevant degree, can show good grades in relevant subjects, and/or have substantial relevant work experience.
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Licenciado / Título de [subject area] 4.5 3.75 3.2
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Licenciado 9 8 or 80 7 or 75
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Baccalaureus / Prvostupnik 4.5 3.8 3.0
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
4-year Titulo de Licenciado / Licenciatura 5 4 3
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Cyprus 8.5 7.0 6.5
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Bakalár (after 2001) 6 yr integrated Magistr 1 1.5 2
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
5 year Candidatus/Candidata Magisterii or Bachelor degree (7 point scale) 12 10 7
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
4 year Licenciado or Título de [subject area] 3.8 Magna Cum Laude or 3.5 or 85% Cum Laude or 3.2 or 82%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Título de Licenciado / Título de [subject area] 8.5 / 85% 8 / 80% 7 / 70%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Egypt 3.5 3.2 2.8
Universities only BA 90%, BSc 85% BA 80%, BSc 75% BA 65%, BSc 65%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
5 year Licenciado, Título de Ingeniero/Arquitecto 8.5, 85% 7.5, 75% or Muy Bueno 6.5, 65% or Bueno
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Bakalaureusekraad or Magister or Magistrikraad 5 or 91% or A 4 or 81% or B 3 or 71% or C
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Master's A/GPA 4.0 A/GPA 3.5 B/GPA 2.8
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Kandidaattii/Kandidat or the Maisteri/Magister 3 (out of 3) or 4.5 (out of 5) 2 (out of 3) or 3 (out of 5) 1 (out of 3) or 2.5 (out of 5)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Licence (3 years)/ Maitrise/ Diplôme d'Ingénieur 14 13 11
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
4-year degree (% = new system) 5 (95%) 4.0 (85%) 3.5 (75%)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
German Bachelor/ Diplom, Magister Artium / Zeugnis über den Zweiten Abschnitt der Ärztlichen Prüfung 1.5 2.5 3.0
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Ghana First Upper second/60% Lower second/50%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Universities 8.5 7.0 6
TEI and non-University Institutions 8.5 7 6.5
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Degree from University of West Indies - classification 1st, 70% (GPA 3.6) 2:1, 60% (GPA 3.00) 2:2, 50% (GPA 2.5)
Degree from University of West Indies - grade / percentage A B / 75% C / 55%
Degree from University of West Indies - GPA 3.6 3.0 2.0
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Liceniado / Titulo de (subject area) - 4 years 90% (public university) / 95% (private university) 80% (public university) / 85% (private university) 60% (public university) / 70% (private university)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Master's GPA 4 GPA 3.5 3.0
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Título de Licenciado / Grado Académico de Licenciatura (4 year degree) - GPA out of 5 GPA 5 or 90% GPA 4 or 80% GPA 3.5 or 70%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
1st or 3.5/4 2:1or 3/4 2:2 or 2.5/4 2.5
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Alapfokozt or Egyetemi Oklevel / Bachelor 4.5 3.5 3
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Baccalaurreatus degree or Kandidatsprof/Candidatus Mag 8.5 7.5 6.5
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Institutions listed on the National Institutional Ranking Framework 65% (First) 60% (First) 55% (Upper second)
All other Indian institutions 70% (First with distinction) 65% (First) 60% (First)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Sarjana I (S1) from accredited Universities 3.3 3.0 2.8
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Iran 17 15 13
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Iraq 80% 75% 70%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Republic of Ireland First (70%) Upper second (60%) Lower second (50%)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
3 yr Bachelor Degree 90% 80% 70%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Diploma di Laurea 109/110 100/110 90/110
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Diplome d'Etude Approfondies, Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures 16 14 (Bien) 12 (Assez Bien)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
For degrees studied at The University of West Indies or degrees accredited by UCJ and CCCJ 1st (GPA 3.6) 2:1 (GPA 3.0) or B 2:2, 50% (GPA 2.5)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Gakushi – GPA 4.0 scale 85% or A or 3.5 80% or B or 3.0 70% or C or 2.0
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
GPA 4.0 scale 3.5 3 or 3.5/5 or 75% 2.5 (or 3.0/5) / 63%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
GPA 5.0/percentage scale 4.5 or 90% 4 or 85% 3.5 or 80%
GPA 4.33 scale 3.9 3.7 3.2
GPA 4.0 scale 3.7 3.4 3
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Kenya First / 70% / A Upper second / 60% / B Lower second / 50% / C
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Kosovo 10 9 8
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
GPA 4.0 scale 3.6 3.0 2.6
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Latvia 9 7 6
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
American 90% (3.5) 80% (3.2) 70% (2.8)
French 18 15 12
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Master's 4.0 or 90% 3.5 or 85% 3 or 80%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
BSc Engineering, Architecture, Medicine 85 (3.6) 75 (3.0) 65 (2.5)
Other bachelor's degree from a university 90 (4.0) 85% (3.6) 75% (3.0)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Lithuania 9 8 7
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Luxembourg 18 (excellent) 16 (tres Bien) 14 (bien)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Macau 1st or GPA 3.7 2:1 or GPA 3.0 2:2 or GPA 2.5
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Magistar Дипломиран / Баццалауреус / Баццалауреа (Bachelor degree) 10 9 8
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Master's only MSc 75% MSc 70% MSc 65%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Classification First Class 2.1 GPA 2.5
GPA 4.0 scale 3.5 3.0 2.8
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Malta 1st (80%) 2:1 (70%) 2:2 (55%)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Mauritius 1st or 70% 2:1 or 60% 2:2 or 50%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Licenciatura / Licenciado/ Título (Profesional) de [subject area] 8.5 8 7
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Diploma de Licenţă (Diploma of Licentiate) 9 8 7
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Диплом Специалиста (Specialist Diploma) 90% or 3.5 80% or GPA 3.2 70% or GPA 3.0
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Diploma of Completed Undergraduate Studies or Diploma of Professional Undergraduate Studies 10 (or 5.0) 9 (or 4.5) 8 (or 4.0)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Diplôme d'Ingénieur d'État, Diplôme d'Écoles Nationales de Commerce et de Gestion, Licence / Licence d'Études Fondamentales / Licence Professionnelle 16 14 12
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Mestrado/ Grau de Mastre 16 14 12
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
2 year Master's degree 5 or 85% 5 or 75% 4.5 or 65%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
4-year Bachelor Honours (post 2008) or Masters 80% or A 70% or B 60% or C
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Master's (after 3 year bachelor degree) 80% or 3.7 GPA 65% or 3.3 GPA 60% or 3.0 GPA
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Netherlands 8 7 6
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
4 Year Honours degree (480 credits) - Level 8 First (7.0) Upper Second (6.0) Lower Second (4.0)
3 Year degree (360 credits) - Level 7 A+ (9.0) A- (7.0) B+ (6.0)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Licenciatura (4 year) 90% 80% 70%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
7 point Scale 6 5 3.0 (on 5 point scale)
5 point scale 4.5 3.8 3.5
4 point scale 3.5 3 2.5
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Norway A / 1.8 B / 2.3 C / 3.0
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
GPA 4.0 scale 3.5 3.0 2.5
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
4 Year degree only (the higher of the 2 options) A- or GPA 3.7 B or GPA 3.0 C+ or GPA 2.6
2 or 3 year Bachelor plus Masters 1st (60%) plus GPA 3.7 2nd (55%) plus GPA 3.0 2nd (50%) plus GPA 2.6
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Bachelor (4-years) (85%) 3.5 (80%) 3.0 (70%) 2.5
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
4 Year Licenciado / Título de [subject area] 91 (A) 81 (B) 71 (C)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Bachelor (Honours) Degree 1st 2:1 2:2
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
4 Year Título de Licenciado / Título de [subject area] 4.5 (85%) 4 (80%) 3.5 (75%)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
4 Year Título de Licenciado / Título de [subject area] 14 13 12
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Degree from prestigious state universities or Centres of Excellence (COE) Summa Cum Laude 4.0 / 96% / 1.0 Magna cum Laude 3.5 / 92% / 1.5 Cum Laude 3.0 / 87%/ 2.0
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Bachelor Degree (post 2003) Magister (pre- 2003) 5 4.5 4
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Diploma de Estudos Superiores Especializados (DESE) or Licenciado 18 16 14
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
GPA 4.0 scale 3.5 3.0 2.8
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Diploma de Licenta/ Diploma de Inginer 9 8 7
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Bakalavr/Specialist Diploma/Magistr 4.5 4.0 3.5
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
4 year bachelor (Hons) degree (480 credits) 1st, 16/20 (80%) 2:1,14/20 (70%) 2:2, 12/20 (60%)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
GPA 4.0 scale 3.5 3.0 2.8
GPA 5.0 scale 4.5 3.75 3.5
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies, Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees 16/20 or Tres Bien 14/20 or Bien 12/20 or Assez Bien
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Diplomirani/ Bachelor's degree 9 8 7
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Honours degree or masters 1st (70%) 2:1 (60% or B) 2:2 (50% or C)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Bachelor (Hons) First Upper second Lower second
GPA 4.0 scale 3.7 3.0 2.7
GPA 5.0 scale 4.5 3.5 3.0
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Bakalár (from 2005) Magister / Inzinier 1.5 or B 2.0 or C 2.5 or C/high D
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
University Diplom 9 8 7
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Bachelor (Honours) or B Tech after 4 yrs study 1st or 75% 2:1 or 70% 2:2 or 60%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
GPA out of 4.5 4.0 / A 3.5 / B 3.0 / C+
GPA out of 4.3 4.0 / A 3.0 / B 2.7 / C+
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Licenciado / Título de Ingeniero / Título de Arquitecto 8.5 7 6.5
UCM grading 3.0 2.0 1.5
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
4 year Professional degree or Bachelor Special or Honours degree 90%, GPA 3.70 80%, GPA 3.30 70%, GPA 3.0
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
4 year degree 1st, 70%, B+ 2:1, 66% mid 2:2, 60%, B
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Kandidatexamen or Magisterexamen Overall grade of VG with a minimum of 120 credits at VG B or Overall grade of VG with a minimum of 90 credits at VG C or Overall grade of G with a minimum of 90 credits at G
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Bachelor Degree, Diplom or Lizentiat (10/6/5) 10 / 6 / 1 8 / 5 / 2 6 / 4 / 3
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
State universities 4 years of study 80% 70% 60%
Private universities 4 years of study 90% 80% 70%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Category 1 (4 year degree) 80% 75% 70%
Category 2 (4 year degree) 85% 80% 75%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Диплом специалиста - Specialist Diploma 5 4.5 4
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Tanzania 1st 2:1 2:2
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
GPA 4.0 scale 3.5 3.0 2.8
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
For degrees studied at The University of West Indies or degrees accredited by ACTT 1st or GPA 3.6 2:1 or GPA 3.0 2:2 or GPA 2.5
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Licence, Maîtrise, Diplôme National d'Ingénieu 16 (tres bien) 14 (bien) 11 (assez bien)
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Lisans Diplomasi or a Műhendis Diplomasi 3.5 3 2.5
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
4 Yr Bakalavr, Specialist Diploma or Magistr 5 4.5 4
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Uganda 1st or 4.4 2:1 or 3.8 2:2 or 3.0
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Dyplom Magistra or a Bachelors degree (11 / 5) 4.5 4.0 3.5
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
GPA 4.0 scale 3.5 3.0 2.6
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
GPA 4.0 scale 3.5 3.2 2.8
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Licenciado (4 year) 9 8 7
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Majistr Diplomi / Diplomi (Specialist Diploma) 90% or GPA 4.5 80% or GPA 4.0 70% or GPA 3.5
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Licenciado/Professional title. (4 year) 18/20 or 8/9 16/20 or 7/9 14/20 or 6/9
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
10-point scale 8.0 7.0 6.0
4-point scale 3.5 3.0 2.8
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
Master's A or 4.0 or 80% B+, 3.5 or 70% B or 3.0 or 60%
First-class honours (70%) Upper second-class honours (60%) Lower second-class honours (50%)
3/4 year degree 1st or 75% 2:1 or 65% 2:2 or 60%

English language requirements

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

Fees and funding

October 2025 start

UK fee

£12,500 Full-time degree per annum

International fee

£25,500 Full-time degree per annum

What's included in your tuition fees Fee status Pay in advance or instalments

The fee stated is for a full-time student undertaking a master’s programme of 180 credits. Part-time students, or those taking a postgraduate certificate or a postgraduate diploma, should divide the published fee by 180 credits and then multiply by the number of credits they are taking to calculate their tuition fees.

Fees are reviewed annually and are likely to increase to take into account inflationary pressures.

We have also secured two scholarships for £1,000 each, one from Vexo International and one from ASHRAE UK Midlands Chapter, which will be given directly to the selected students in October.

Scholarships and bursaries

There are scholarships and bursaries available to help with funding your study.

10% off tuition fees

Loughborough University Alumni Bursary

Up to 20% off tuition fees

Excellence Scholarship
Master's degree funding

Your development

Ready to shape a sustainable future?

Our Net Zero Building Services Engineering MSc will equip you with the skills to revolutionise the built environment.

You'll learn to design energy-efficient and environmentally friendly buildings, and develop the critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to tackle real-world challenges.

Net Zero Energy ASHRAE Design competition

Our programme shines with consistent wins in the ASHRAE Sustainable Building Design competition, demonstrating our expertise in sustainability and practical learning. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) UK Midlands Chapter offers a scholarship and various prizes to encourage more diverse students to join the MSc as our industry is in need of high calibre graduates across the world.

Five students from Loughborough secured first place at the prestigious ASHRAE Setty Family Foundation Net Zero Energy Design competition. Each member received a $1,000 award and the opportunity to attend the ASHRAE Winter Conference in Chicago, USA.

This victory marks the third time Loughborough students have claimed the top spot in the ASHRAE Net Zero Energy Design competition. It underscores our commitment to excellence and innovation in building services engineering, sustainable practices, and cutting-edge research.

Professor Eftekhari

Our academics

Dr Mahroo Eftekhari, Programme Director, MSc Low Energy Building Services Engineering

Professor Mahroo Eftekhari

Programme Director

Expert in control and optimum operation of HVAC systems to provide better indoor air quality. She is the president of BISPA and the UK ASHRAE Midlands Chapter, as well as the Regional Vice Chair of the CTTC for the ASHRAE Region XIV.
Steven Firth, Reader in Building Performance Modelling

Dr Steven Firth

Reader in Building Performance Modelling

Expert in building energy modelling, occupant behaviour methods and open science research. He teaches Building Simulation and Renewable Energy.
Richard Buswell, Professor in Building Energy Systems

Professor Richard Buswell

Professor of Building Energy Systems

He specialises in multi-disciplinary research in building energy performance and construction manufacturing, and leads the Building Thermal Loads and Systems module.
Jonathan Wright, Professor in Building Optimisation

Professor Jonathan Wright

Professor of Building Optimisation

Chartered Engineer with over 30 years of experience in Building Services Engineering, focusing on the computational design optimisation of buildings. He leads the Wellbeing and Indoor Environment module.
David Allinson, Senior Lecturer in Building Physics: Measurement and Modelling

Dr David Allinson

Reader in Building Physics

Expert in building physics, particularly interested in the use of passive design strategies to reduce building energy demand. He leads the Low Energy Building Design module.
Malcolm Cook, Associate Dean (Research) and Professor of Building Performance Analysis

Professor Malcolm Cook

Associate Dean (Research) and Professor of Building Performance Analysis

Leading expert of low energy building design and ventilation with over 25 years of experience in modelling natural ventilation air flows using advanced, computational fluid dynamics techniques.

Your future career

Explore the breadth of career opportunities available with an Net Zero Building Services Engineering MSc degree.

Loughborough’s Net Zero programme is designed to equip you with the specialised knowledge and skills needed to excel in the field.

The programme focuses on energy efficiency, sustainability and related areas, providing you with a strong foundation for successful careers.  

Enjoy a multitude of key benefits: 

  • High earning potential: Engineers enjoy top starting salaries, and Chartered Engineers (CEng) earn even more.
  • Excellent job prospects: Strong industry connections lead to great employment rates. Previous students embarked on careers with Arup, Atkins, Cundall, Foster & Partners, Hoare Lea and Pick Everard, to name a few.
  • Career including placement support: The university’s award-winning Careers Network offers workshops, advice, and talks to help you succeed.
  • Networking opportunities: Attend the School's Careers Fair in the first semester to connect with industry partners and explore diverse roles - the largest built environment careers fair in any UK university!
  • Extensive research opportunities: Continue your studies by pursuing PhD research in net zero and smart buildings.
  • Prize opportunities: Achieve industry prizes for best overall student and through design and research projects from various industry partners such as AECOM, Vexo International and ASHRAE UK. 
Hear from Saziye
Hear from Adeniyi
Hear from Alekhya

The Net Zero Building Services Engineering MSc at Loughborough delivers high-quality graduates with good knowledge of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems performance and design. The programme covers the latest technologies in digital twins and zero-energy, and the latest research is embedded in teaching modules. We particularly support research dissertation projects in HVAC pipework performance, and we have recently sponsored two graduates to study for a PhD and develop digital technologies and visualisation in HVAC. We will also be awarding a scholarship to one lucky student in October.

Vexo International