Research students are either self-financed or supported through NUS research scholarships. The graduation requirements include coursework, seminar module and thesis. PhD candidates are required to pass a Qualifying Examination, comprising a written Comprehensive Examination and a defence of thesis proposal, final thesis examination and viva.
The Department’s full-time researchers are distributed between 4 research clusters:
- Project Management & Digital Construction
- Sustainable Buildings & Materials
- Project Finance & Construction Law
- Building Energy Efficiency & Indoor Environment Quality
Design and Engineering
Built Environment
nelsonc@nus.edu.sg
4 Architecture Drive, #03-04 Singapore 117566History of the Department
The Department of the Built Environment (DBE) was created on 1 July 2021 after a rebranding of the Department of Building (DOB). The DOB was established on 1 June 2000 when the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Real Estate was restructured as the School of Design and Environment. The Department has a proud history of over 50 years, tracing its roots to the Department of Building and Real Estate which was established in 1969.
This departmental rebranding heralds the dawn of a new era which firmly anchors the department at the forefront of Built Environment education and research. This rebranding serves to future-proof our educational offerings to transcend beyond the traditional notions of building, project, and facilities management. This thereby ensures that our graduates remain highly sought-after by the relevant industries.
Our Vision
To be a global knowledge leader in project management, facilities management, contract management and technology management in the sustainable built environment.
Our Mission
To advance knowledge, educate learners, and foster enterprise in project management, facilities management, contract management and technology management in the sustainable built environment.
| Commitment | Average Candidature | Maximum Candidature |
|---|---|---|
| Full Time | 4 Years | 5 Years |
| Part Time | 4 Years | 5 Years |
Bachelor’s and master’s degree holders who seek to develop core competencies in project management, facilities management, contract management, and technology management, with specific emphasis on integrated approaches to planning, building, and management in the built environment.
| Criteria | Minimum Score | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| GPA | Admission into a Ph.D. programme requires a good Master’s degree in a relevant discipline, or at least a Second Class Upper Honours degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline. | ||
| English Proficiency Tests | TOEFL Paper-based | 580 / 677 | |
| TOEFL Internet-based | 85 / 120 | ||
| IELTS | 6 / 9 | ||
GRE is optional. However, evidence of strong quantitative, verbal, and analytical skills through GRE scores, as well as indicators of research skills and experience will significantly strengthen your application.
Either TOEFL or IELTS is required for students whose main language of undergraduate university instruction is not English. Waivers may be granted to students who are native English speakers or proficient in English but are currently enrolled in a non-English medium university. Contact programme administrator to inquire. Test scores for the TOEFL and IELTS are valid for 2 years from the test dates. TOEFL and IELTS Academic scores that have expired by the time the application period closes will not be accepted. For more information about the TOEFL or IELTS, please visit www.toefl.org (for TOEFL) and www.ielts.org (for IELTS).
For further information on the English Language requirement: please click here.
Useful links:
- Responsibilities for Notices, Circulars and Update of Personal Particulars
- Building Research Students Network
- FAQ’s
- Full admissions requirement
- Full application guide
| Category | Application Window | Application Result Released | |
|---|---|---|---|
Semester 1 Intake (August) | International Students | Deadline: January 15 2026 | No fixed application outcome date |
| Singapore Citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents | Deadline: March 1 2026 | ||
Semester 2 Intake (January) | International Students | Deadline: July 1 2025 | |
| Singapore Citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents | Deadline: September 1 2025 | ||