GUEST EDITORIAL | JOHN CORCORAN - TUNNELLING EDUCATION
MSc IN TUNNELLING Restart the MSc course in tunnelling - is the call from John Corcoran, BTS Chair.
From 2011-2021, the University of Warwick ran the excellent MSc course in tunnelling, ably led by Benoit Jones, followed by Alan Bloodworth. Content included lectures from experienced people in industry and attendees appreciated the unique balance between practical and theoretical that the course provided. Many students have since gone on to become leading
figures in our tunnelling industry. They show passion, dedication, drive and are exactly the calibre of people we need to provide growth and innovation. Their employers’ benefit by way of having these highly skilled and motivated engineers within their organisations. So why did the course stop? Covid, primarily, and
those involved wanted to move on to other experiences. At that time, the new trend of degree apprenticeships at master’s level led to pursuing that option. But, just as development was in the final stage, near government approval, funding for this route was pulled. The last few years has offered time to assess the
MSc at Warwick and there is a real desire to restart, driven not least by past attendees. The BTS is leading the drive, with a target restart of September 2028, and at Warwick, although that is not yet confirmed; links are already in place, and obtaining course approval will be quicker than going to a new university.
The funding model for the restarted MSc is being
finalised. The expectation is that a “pick’n’mix” package of options will be available. This includes a combination of full-time UK and international students, 2yr part- time students, and a bundle of one week contact- time modules. A target of 20 students is considered necessary to make funding viable. There is confidence the course will attract
international students. UK education is highly prized. What is needed is sustained support from UK employers – contractors, clients, consultants. Support includes a commitment to sponsor
employees, granting time for studies, and getting much in return as they contribute to improving the skill set in the industry. Soon, the group planning to restart the course will
contact major UK employers to seek support. Former students continue acclaim the ongoing value of their MSc studies and networks. Dan Garbutt, CEng. MICE, and UK Member Nation
Representative to ITA-AITES, obtained the MSc part-time while working in industry. “What set Warwick apart was its industry-led teaching, supported by strong BTS engagement.” He adds: “I could immediately apply real- world insight, not just theory.”
Above: Site visit to tunnels under construction PHOTOS COURTESY OF BTS 10 | May 2026
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