From Sri Lanka to Salford: Saranga’s journey in Construction Project Management

Choosing the UK and Salford

"I first became aware of MSc Project Management in Construction programmes in the UK while researching postgraduate opportunities to develop my career further within the construction industry. After completing my Bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying and Construction and gaining professional experience in Sri Lanka, I wanted to broaden my knowledge beyond Quantity Surveying and develop a stronger understanding of project management and the wider delivery of construction projects.

I chose Salford because of its strong reputation in the built environment and the programme's connection with the wider construction profession. I felt it offered the right combination of academic development, professional relevance and a strong connection with the construction industry including professional bodies such as RICS, CIOB and APM. This was important to me because I have long-term ambitions to continue developing professionally and work towards chartered-level qualifications, subject to the requirements of the relevant professional bodies. I was also awarded the Global Silver Excellence Scholarship which helped to fund my studies.

Learning at Salford

"Coming from a Quantity Surveying background, I wanted a Master's that would help me progress beyond my existing discipline. The MSc helped me build on that foundation and develop a broader understanding of how the different aspects of a project come together from a project management perspective.

I developed knowledge in project management, risk management, procurement, contract management, sustainability, stakeholder management, Lean management, strategic decision-making and digital tools in modern project delivery.

I particularly valued being able to connect my previous industry experience with the theories, case studies and practical examples discussed during the course. The assignments, case studies and group projects allowed me to apply what I learned to realistic construction situations.

I also found the learning environment supportive and appreciated being able to communicate with lecturers and receive guidance when I needed it. Studying in Salford and Greater Manchester was another positive aspect for me, as it is an area with a strong construction and regeneration environment. Being in this environment gave me a useful setting in which to study construction and project management and helped me appreciate the wider industry around me."

The dissertation experience

"My dissertation, ‘Evaluating Compensation Events in NEC4 Contracts’, allowed me to combine my previous Quantity Surveying and contractual experience with project management research. I achieved 80% for my dissertation and an overall Distinction, achieving the highest overall mark in my cohort.

Completing the MSc with a Distinction was especially rewarding, and it gave me a strong sense that the time, money and effort I had invested had been worthwhile."

Looking to the future

"The degree has helped me clarify my longer-term career direction. I want to continue developing my professional experience in the construction industry while also progressing towards research and eventually pursuing a PhD, with the long-term ambition of combining industry experience, research and teaching.

For me, the real value of the MSc has been the combination of professional relevance, practical teaching and the broader perspective it has given me on construction project management."