ZIGURAT Launches Global Online AI in Construction Master’s Programme
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept; it’s here, transforming industries across the globe. The construction sector, traditionally slow to adopt new technologies, is now embracing AI to revolutionise how projects are designed, managed, and executed.
Leading this charge is the ZIGURAT Institute of Technology, based in Barcelona, which has launched the world’s first global online Master’s in Artificial Intelligence for Architecture & Construction.
A Catalyst for Change in Construction
The integration of AI into construction processes is ushering in a new era of efficiency and innovation. AI’s ability to analyse vast amounts of data enables:
- Predictive Maintenance: By monitoring equipment health, AI can forecast potential failures, allowing for timely interventions that minimise downtime and reduce costs.
- Design Optimisation: AI-driven tools can generate multiple design scenarios based on specific parameters, aiding architects and engineers in making informed decisions that enhance both functionality and aesthetics.
- Project Management: AI algorithms assist in resource allocation, scheduling, and risk assessment, ensuring projects stay on track and within budget.
Fernando Iglesias Gamella, architect and BIM and Innovation Manager at Kronos Real Estate Group, observes: “Introducing AI in construction will inevitably transform a sector that has hitherto been traditional and poorly digitised. We are at the beginning of a revolution, where we will soon observe a paradigm shift in the way we approach every phase of the construction process.”
Pioneering AI Education in Construction
ZIGURAT Institute of Technology has a history of leading educational innovation. In 2013, it offered the first online master’s in Building Information Modelling (BIM), a methodology now widely adopted in construction. Building on this legacy, ZIGURAT’s new programme focuses entirely on AI applications in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sectors.
Pau Farré, CEO of ZIGURAT, emphasises: “At ZIGURAT, we position ourselves at the crest of AEC professional training, with students from over 120 countries. With the new AI in Construction master’s, we equip architects and engineers with the skills, tools, and resources they need to design and build the buildings and cities of the future.”
A Comprehensive Approach
The Master’s programme is meticulously structured to cover all facets of AI in construction:
- Fundamentals of AI and Programming: Laying the groundwork with essential AI concepts and coding skills.
- AI in Design and BIM: Exploring how AI integrates with BIM and generative design to create intelligent models.
- AI in Project Management: Focusing on AI’s role in streamlining project workflows and decision-making processes.
- AI in Smart Cities: Delving into AI’s application in urban planning and the development of smart infrastructures.
Throughout the programme, students engage in a practical Master’s Final Project, developing AI-based solutions for real-world challenges in building projects or urban planning.
Global Reach and Practical Focus
The programme’s live online format, available in Spanish, English, and Portuguese, fosters a global learning environment. This approach encourages:
- International Collaboration: Students from diverse backgrounds form transnational teams, enriching the learning experience through varied perspectives.
- Networking Opportunities: Interaction with professionals and executives worldwide opens doors to future collaborations and career advancements.
- Real-Time Content Updates: The curriculum evolves with industry advancements, ensuring that students are always learning the most current practices.
Guiding the Next Generation
The programme boasts a distinguished faculty, including:
- Fernando Iglesias Gamella: Director of the Spanish version; architect and BIM expert.
- Lilian Ho: Director of the English version; Senior BIM Manager & Digital Lead at AECOM and a specialist in generative design.
- Ítalo Guedes: Director of the Portuguese version; consultant at IG Consultoria and a leader in integrating AI into project management.
Their collective expertise ensures that students receive guidance grounded in industry realities and forward-thinking strategies.
Enrollment and Future Prospects
Registrations are now open for the programme’s inaugural edition, commencing in November 2025. As AI continues to reshape the construction landscape, professionals equipped with this specialised knowledge will be at the forefront of industry transformation.
AI’s Role in Construction
The construction industry stands on the brink of a technological revolution. AI’s integration promises not only to enhance efficiency and productivity but also to redefine the very nature of how we build.
ZIGURAT’s Master’s programme offers a timely and comprehensive pathway for professionals eager to lead this change, ensuring they are well-prepared to harness the full potential of AI in construction.
