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Course syllabus - Digitalization and data visualization in the built environment

Scope

7.5 credits

Course code

BTA227

Valid from

Autumn semester 2026

Education level

First cycle

Progressive Specialisation

G2F (First cycle, has at least 60 credits in first-cycle course/s as entry requirements)

Main area(s)

Building Engineering

Organisation

Department of Engineering Sciences

Ratified

2025-12-18

Literature lists

Course literature is preliminary up to 8 weeks before course start. Course literature can be valid over several semesters.

Objectives

The course aims to provide students with practical and applicable knowledge of digital tools and methods used in modern building engineering. Through work with BIM, building inspection, and the visualisation of open building data, students develop skills to analyse, document, and communicate building performance and design using digital technologies.

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, the student should be able to:

  1. Describe and apply fundamental methods for digital modelling and information management in building engineering (BIM).
  2. Conduct building inspections to analyse energy performance and indoor climate conditions of buildings.
  3. Retrieve, process and visualise open building data related to energy use, climate impact, or characteristics of the building stock.
  4. Use digital tools to compile and communicate technical results in building engineering contexts.
  5. Reflect on the opportunities and limitations of digital models and data in building design and facility management.

Course content

  1. Application of principles for BIM and digital information management
  2. Building inspection: theory, methods, and application in building analysis
  3. Open building data: sources, structure, and use
  4. Visualisation techniques and tools
  5. Data analysis related to building energy use and climate impact
  6. Integrated project work: BIM, energy modelling, and data visualisation

Specific requirements

At least 75 hp from an engineering programme, including 2 hp in BIM applied to building design and planning.

Examination

PRO1, Project report, 5 credits, grades Fail (U) or Pass (G). Covers Intended Learning Outcomes 1–5.

TEN1, Written examination, 2.5 credits, grades 3, 4 or 5. Covers Intended Learning Outcomes 1–5.

A student who has a certificate from MDU regarding disability study support, can request adaptions for the examination. It is the examiner who takes decisions on any adaptions, based on the certificate and other conditions.

Grade

Grading scale: 5, 4, 3