Master’s in HVAC Systems with Energy Efficiency

You will develop advanced skills in HVAC engineering, mechanical installations, air conditioning design, heating and DHW systems, ventilation strategies, and building energy modelling (BEM). You will also learn how to calculate thermal loads, conduct energy audits and integrate renewable energy systems such as solar thermal, geothermal, aerothermal and biomass into efficient HVAC designs.

The programme focuses on designing energy efficient HVAC systems that incorporate renewable energy solutions, including solar thermal, aerothermal heat pumps, geothermal systems and biomass. You will learn how to reduce energy consumption through optimisation, heat recovery, advanced controls and energy simulation tools aligned with international sustainability standards.

Yes. The master’s examines indoor air quality (IAQ) in detail, covering ventilation design, filtration, humidity control, CO₂ management and air renewal. You will learn to design HVAC solutions that comply with ASHRAE and international IAQ requirements, ensuring healthy, comfortable and productive indoor environments.

Absolutely. The programme includes BIM (Building Information Modelling) for MEP coordination and BEM (Building Energy Modelling) for thermal load analysis and energy simulation. You will learn to model HVAC systems, detect clashes, simulate building performance and optimise energy use through digital workflows.

This master’s is ideal for mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, industrial engineers, civil engineers, MEP engineers, architects, facility managers and AEC professionals who want to specialise in HVAC system design, air conditioning engineering, energy efficiency and sustainable building technologies. It is suitable both for experienced professionals and those transitioning into design and consultancy roles.

You will be prepared to manage HVAC projects in:

• Residential buildings

• Office buildings

• Industrial facilities

• Hotels, retail and commercial buildings

• Educational facilities

• Hospitals and healthcare centres

You will be capable of designing HVAC systems, performing thermal calculations, planning energy retrofits, selecting efficient AC systems and carrying out maintenance and optimisation studies.

You will work with the two major global regulatory frameworks:

European Standards

• RITE certification

• RSCIEI 2025

• DB HS3 ventilation requirements

American Standards

• ASHRAE methodology for loads, IAQ and ventilation

• Energy performance and efficiency standards

This dual approach prepares you to design HVAC projects adapted to different climates and international markets.

You will work with leading tools such as:

• Revit for BIM and MEP modelling

• DesignBuilder for BEM and energy simulation

• HAP (Hourly Analysis Program) by Carrier for thermal load calculations

• EnergyPlus for advanced building energy modelling

• Ce3X for energy certification

• BIMVision for IFC model review

These tools reflect real workflows for air conditioning, energy modelling, and HVAC system optimisation.

You will be qualified for positions such as:

• HVAC Engineer or Air Conditioning Engineer

• MEP Engineer specialising in HVAC

• Building Services Engineer

• Project Director or Installation Supervisor

• Facilities Manager

• Energy Efficiency Consultant

• Building Energy Modelling Engineer

• HVAC Maintenance and Optimisation Specialist

• Sustainability and Building Retrofitting Consultant

Graduates typically experience career growth, increased responsibilities and improved salary conditions.

Yes. This live online master’s awards a double degree: one from ZIGURAT Institute of Technology and another from the Universitat de Barcelona IL3, internationally recognised for excellence in HVAC engineering, energy efficiency, and building services.

Students benefit from partnerships with leading companies such as Daikin, Trox, Carrier and Sener, gaining access to real world methodologies in air conditioning, energy simulation, ventilation systems and high efficiency HVAC solutions.

This master’s stands out for its combination of HVAC system design, mechanical installations, BIM and BEM, renewable energy integration, and international regulations. With European and American regulatory tracks and real case studies, you will graduate ready to design, simulate and manage efficient, sustainable and high performance building systems.