A New Centre of Excellence for Built Environment Education

張貼於： 2025-06-24

In a time of rapid urban development, climate imperatives and technological innovation, institutions that educate future professionals must evolve—not just in curriculum but in identity. The recent decision by the University College of Estate Management (UCEM) to adopt the name University of the Built Environment represents a strategic and forwardlooking transformation. It aligns with the University’s identity with its expanded academic scope, international reach, and long-standing commitment to shaping sustainable, resilient, and inclusive spaces for future generations.

From left to right: Sr Clement LAU, Mr Nicholas BROOKE, GBS JP, Professor Kar-Kan LING, SBS.

Founded in 1919, UCEM has served for over a century as a pioneer in delivering flexible, career-focused education for real estate, surveying, and construction professionals. As its academic offerings and global influence have expanded to include disciplines such as architecture, urban planning, sustainable development, and smart infrastructure, the need for a new identity became clear.

“This name change reflects not only our proud heritage, but also allows us to move forward with our strategic aims for continued growth and influence. It clarifies our identity and communicates our distinct offering to students, alumni and employers, as well as the higher education sector and global built environment industries,” said Vice-Chancellor Ashley Wheaton.

Peter McCrea, Chair of the Board, added, “This monumental change is something the Board has been passionate about for over 15 years. To see it come to fruition is not only a proud, but truly remarkable occasion. I want to acknowledge and thank the staff and leadership team for their hard work and determination in enabling us to assume the role of University of the Built Environment.”

The new name powerfully reflects the University’s strategic vision to become the recognised global centre of excellence for built environment education. It also speaks to the institution’s expanding portfolio, which addresses the growing needs of this dynamic and essential sector. As the only specialist university dedicated solely to the built environment, the new identity affirms the University’s unique position in higher education. It underscores a continued professional commitment to serve evolving industry demands through cutting-edge education and research.

While the name changes, the University’s core values, academic integrity, and programme quality remain unchanged. All current accreditations will continue, and students, alumni, and partners can expect the same high standards and sector relevance.

The name University of the Built Environment is intentionally aspirational. It captures the full spectrum of the institution’s educational scope—from land management to sustainability, and from architectural design to digital construction technologies. At a time when cities face escalating pressures from population growth and environmental stress, the phrase “built environment” represents more than physical spaces—it encompasses the systems, values, and innovations that shape those spaces.

Nicholas Brooke, Chairman of Professional Property Services Limited, remarked: “The built environment is particularly challenged at the current time. There are issues around climate change, carbon and sustainability… artificial intelligence, of course, is going to change things quite dramatically, and I think the University, in its role as a centre of research, can provide help and guidance.”

Professor Kar-Kan Ling , Interim Vice President (Campus Development and Facilities) and Director of Jockey Club Design Institute for Social Innovation, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University echoed the sentiment: “Renaming UCEM to University of the Built Environment signifies a commitment of the present generation to shape a better built environment for our future generations. Built for Life, Built for People and Built for the Future. I believe a better world can be built with our collective wisdom and efforts.”

Sr Clement Lau, Past President of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), added: “The University has built a flexible and accessible platform for students that fits their life and career goals at different stages. Your dedication to inspiring professionals and advancing knowledge is crucial for addressing pressing issues like climate change and achieving net carbon zero in our built and natural environments.”

The University’s commitment to the Asia-Pacific region remains a vital component of its global strategy. With its APAC office based in Hong Kong, the institution continues to support students and institutional partners through dedicated academic and business development teams. Its Hong Kong Ambassador plays a key role in connecting students, alumni, and industry stakeholders.

As it prepares to unveil a new visual identity, website, and branding in mid-2025, the University of the Built Environment enters this new chapter with confidence. Its renaming is a natural progression—an evolution that honours more than a century of achievement while embracing a future defined by relevance, resilience, and ambition.