“My insight and knowledge have grown, and I see now that this is much more comprehensive than I actually thought,” says Morten R. Knudsen, architect and lecturer in engineering programmes at the Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering at Aarhus University.

He has just graduated as one of the first students from the Master's programme in Sustainable Building, a two-year, state-recognised advanced education programme developed and offered in collaboration between DTU, Aarhus University, SDU, and Aalborg University. Morten is an architect and has been working in the field of architecture since 1985. In 2009, he also began teaching engineering students. When he stumbled upon the new Master’s programme, he seized the opportunity – and received the backing and support of the department management to enroll in the programme.

“We have a specialisation in sustainable Building at the Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering, that I teach. So it made sense for me to enroll in a programme that would give me an even greater understanding of this field and tools to teach the students.”

For Morten, however, it was not just a matter of professional interest. “We need to act on what I see as a climate catastrophe. Far too little is being done, and I want to influence young people with my belief that it makes a difference. At the same time, I believe that you should learn throughout your life – and here was an opportunity to learn something that also benefits others.”

The Master’s programme is aimed at professionals who want to be able to plan, manage and document construction projects with a low environmental impact. The construction industry ranks among the most significant sources of pollution worldwide: Globally it accounts for around one third of CO₂ emissions, more than one third of waste volumes, and around half of the resource consumption. This is precisely why there is a need for employees who can translate ambitions for green transition into specific solutions.

The programme consists of four six-month modules, which adds up to 60 ECTS credits. The first three modules deal with practical applications of sustainability, theory and methods, as well as construction management, while the final master’s project provides an opportunity to delve into a topic of your choice. The programme is conducted online but combines several teaching methods: two-way teaching, group work, self-study and a study trip. This provides flexibility for students who often have full-time jobs alongside their studies, but also requires a high degree of independence and planning.

The interdisciplinary nature of the programme was one of the highlights for Morten. “We were probably one-third teachers, one-third from the construction industry, and one-third consultants. We had many discussions: it was very clear that our perspectives were influenced by our daily roles. And we didn’t always agree – that’s why we had many good discussions, and we got to see things from each other’s perspectives.”

“That was also the reason why we gained a broad overview: Not only of the scale of the challenges, but also of what can be done. In addition, we also learned about specific tools: I can now do calculations that I couldn’t before and have generally gained a great deal of insight and a greater understanding of the complex issues. Now I also know that the challenges are more than significant – and that there are an incredible number of opportunities to do something about it. I believe that there are good and sustainable solutions, and knowledge about this can help solve some of these issues.”

As a graduate with a Master’s degree in Sustainable Building, Morten can not only assess and document the climate impact of projects – he can also help ensure that strategies for green transition do not end up as greenwashing but get translated into actual change.

For Morten R. Knudsen, the conclusion is clear: the Master’s programme has given him a new perspective on his own field. “The world needs to look different. With the knowledge I have gained from the Master’s programme, I can help young people to become part of the transition and inspire to effectuate the changes I think we need in relation to climate change.”