Building Surveying BSc (Hons)

Study level: Undergraduate
Students working in a construction site

This course is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to give expert advice on construction, maintenance, repair and refurbishment of buildings, and aims to teach you how to always ensure compliance with statutory regulations.

Year of entry

2023-24

Location

Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Part-time
Sandwich

Duration

3 years full-time
4 years full-time (study abroad or work placement)
5 years part-time

Course code

K230

Start date

September 2023

How to apply
Book an Open Day
Download a prospectus
Register for updates

Course overview

The United Nations predicts a global population of 9.7 billion by 2050. Consequently, construction professionals are increasingly being called upon to create and maintain the social and commercial infrastructure needed to accommodate such large-scale growth.

  • We will encourage you to develop the innovation and creativity required to tackle the complex problems now facing the industry around space, sustainability, cost and resilience, thanks to the growing instability of the world’s climate.
  • Building surveyors are involved in all aspects of property and construction, from overseeing huge commercial developments to planning domestic extensions, from maintaining heritage buildings to resolving planning disputes between landlords and tenants.
  • Building surveying is a multidisciplinary subject, encompassing the fields of building pathology, construction technology, surveying techniques, design and specification, conservation and restoration, measurement of land and property, legal and regulatory compliance, contract administration and costing of construction works.
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Global Ready

An international outlook, with global opportunities
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Teaching excellence

Taught by lecturers who are experts in their field
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Employability

Career ready graduates, with the skills to succeed

Why you should study this course

Distinctive and innovative features:

  • You will also have access to our unique Simulation centre4, where we can provide real life scenarios for you to engage with making you even more prepared for entering the workplace.   
  • Access to the advanced technology such as VR, 3D Scanners, Thermal Imaging Cameras, Drones will enable you to prepare for the challenges of the professional world and ease the transition into the workplace after graduation. 
  • We enjoy excellent links with local and national employers and many provide direct input into course development as members of our Building Advisory Boards.  
  • A common first year makes it possible for students to undertake multi-disciplinary learning alongside other built environment related professions. 

Accreditation

Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors

Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)

This course is accredited by The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) up to and including 2025, having been judged to meet the RICS Education Framework. Prospective members holding these qualifications will have full academic exemption and can apply for the RICS Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) in order to progress to Chartered Membership. For more information visit https://www.rics.org/uk/surveying-profession/join-rics/

What you'll study

This course has a common first year.

The common first year enables you to work alongside students doing similar courses to you, to widen your knowledge and exposure to other subject areas and professions. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with other students, so you can share your insights and experience which will help you to develop and learn.

If you discover an interest in a specific subject you have studied, upon successful completion of your first year, you could swap degrees with another course in your common first year (subject to meeting progression requirements).

Common first year courses

  • Architectural Technology BSc (Hons)
  • Architectural Design and Technology BSc (Hons)
  • Construction Project Management BSc (Hons)
  • Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management BSc (Hons)
  • Real Estate and Property Management BSc (Hons)

In the first year, the curriculum is shared across related courses allowing you to gain a broad grounding in the discipline before going on, in the second and third years, to specialist modules in your chosen field.

Modules

  • This module will introduce concepts to develop an understanding of engineering properties of construction materials including modern construction materials and structural construction materials (concrete, timber, steel, glass and masonry etc.). We will cover the composition, manufacture, properties, durability, performance and behaviour of these materials and the hazards and risks they may pose both during construction and subsequent operation of a structure.

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to introduce the principal aspects of construction technology and associated materials as applied to low-rise buildings including the role of the construction and housing industry in achieving the UNs 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, specifically 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 15 & 17. The module content enables you to understand, apply and critically evaluate the key principals of construction processes, structures and environmental performances of low-rise buildings addressing challenges and solutions.

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to develop your understanding of the design process as a circular activity that includes different aspects and stakeholders. You will practice and develop skills to critically appraise and devise a series of design activities to produce a coherent and creative portfolio of work. The module will require you to engage in collaboration between your peers and disciplines to engage effectively in a simulated professional environment. You should gain an appreciation of the collective goal of a design team to provide a creative and sustainable solution to architectural and engineering design.

    Compulsory

  • This module is an introduction to the core knowledge and skills that define the role of different construction professionals within the building process in the UK and in the global context. The module will focus on your understanding and appreciation of both the specifics as well as the team aspects of different professions. In this context you will discuss project design, design economics, project management, site management, quantification, cost management, building services engineering, building surveying, as well as real estate management relevant to your specific profession but also in the overarching context of a building project. You will be practising aspects such as, but not limited to design development, computer aided design (CAD), measurement, condition surveys, site management and cost development with a particular application of key skills in your chosen professional path.

    Compulsory

  • The aim of the module is to provide you with an insight into and an understanding of the concept of project management and cost management. This will include an introduction to project structure and stakeholders, managing different kind of projects, project cost appraisal and innovation in projects. The knowledge in these topics will help you to develop an understanding of the process used in your respective fields and industries and how your actions can impact on the overall cost of a project and to promote inclusivity, sustainability and foster innovation.

    Compulsory

  • This module offers you a practical examination of how the United Nation's (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be implemented and furthered within the Built and Natural Environment. The module will introduce you to how individuals, communities and businesses within the Built and Natural Environment could be responding to the UN SDGs and helping to transform the world through their impact. The module identifies how the SDGs impact your course discipline by exploring the 17 SDGs and focusing on the delivery and implementation of a student-led project that encompasses the most applicable SDG or a combination of SDGs to your specific academic discipline.

    Compulsory

In Year Two, you will continue to develop the skills and knowledge you’ve learnt. We do this by embedding the following four principles into the curriculum and developing your:

  • Technical skills – digital fluency, backed with the right academic knowledge
  • Study skills – to be an adaptive, independent and proactive learner
  • Professional skills – to have the behaviour and abilities to succeed in your career
  • Global awareness – the beliefs and abilities to be a resilient, confident and motivated global citizen

Modules

  • The aim of this module is to develop knowledge of advanced construction technology, which should in turn enable you to understand, apply and critically evaluate the key principles of construction procedures. The emphasis will relate to the role of the construction industry in achieving the UNs 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, specifically focusing on multi-storey and commercial framed structures and include a study of pre-construction activities, substructure and superstructure and the impact of the design process and legislative influences on the layout and planning of buildings.

    Moreover, renewable technologies, Modern Methods of Construction, BREEAM and passive design will also be considered together with the impact of energy conservation and climate change. The module will consider the building services which are installed to provide a suitable internal environment including acoustic, thermal, ventilation, air conditioning systems, natural and artificial lighting.

    Compulsory

  • This module will introduce general principles and concepts of law related to the built environment. In preparation for professional practice, our aim is to develop your ability to understand and apply legal principles to particular legal problems that may arise in the course of built environment activities. The module covers the English legal system, UK legislation and areas of English law relevant to built environment professionals. It includes an introduction to contract law, tort, and the relevant aspects of employment law, dispute resolution, Building Regulations, law of land and property, landlord and tenant law, planning law and construction health and safety legislation. The module is specifically useful to those intending to be involved in the design and/or construction process.

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to introduce you to the problems and challenges associated with adapting and converting buildings from one use to another in a particular context. It will engage students in the critical debate about conversion of existing structures versus building new. Students will develop creative and practical skills as a key challenge in improving the sustainability of the built environment and driving change for users, clients and industry. Focus will be on the information required for the planning, designing and administration of a building adaptation project in line with current industry practice. Crucially, students will be encouraged to think beyond that and discuss new approaches in the pursuit of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. A particular emphasis will be placed on research enriched learning to foster students’ critical inquiry skills.

    Compulsory

  • The module is aimed at developing a deeper understanding the construction of residential low-rise dwellings, industrial and commercial buildings during the latter part of the 19th and the 20th Centuries, together with the likely defects which occur in such buildings. Defects relating in historical buildings will also be introduced for the Building Surveyor and Property appraisers to appreciate the diversity of materials and construction within UK buildings.

    This module brings together the practical and theoretical issues regarding the role of the Building Surveyor and Property appraisers within the built environment. An important aspect of this will involve the further in-depth consideration of building pathology - the principles of building defects, their analysis and diagnosis, and their required remedial action.

    Compulsory

  • In this module you will be encouraged to critically reflect on current architectural and built environment practices by considering the impact of today’s practice for the next century. You will explore past and current visions; analyse how they have fared and what this means for future visions in the light of already predicted challenges. The focus will be on anticipating future scenarios and conceptualising solutions applied to a design brief in a broad cultural, environmental, and technological context of anticipated change and innovation. Areas which may be considered are low carbon construction, corporate social responsibility, new and proposed legislative changes, changes to contractual arrangements, productivity issues and internationalisation.

    Compulsory

  • In this module you will undertake a critical analysis of a specified location and associated project that has been influenced by the United Nation's (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Your analysis of the project will explore the impact, success or failure alongside possible solutions that will be fundamental to the positive future development of the location.

    You will research, appraise, critique, develop and then communicate to a wider audience the impact and implementation of the identified SDG’s for the location/ project. The focus of the review will be linked to your academic discipline within the Built and Natural Environment and draw upon prior learning from your previous cognate knowledge.

    Compulsory

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement2 can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

If you choose to do a work placement year, you will pay a reduced tuition fee3 of £1,250. For more information, please go to the fees and funding section. During this time you will receive guidance from your employer or partner institution, along with your assigned academic mentor who will ensure you have the support you need to complete your placement.

Modules

  • Optional

  • Optional

Year three aims to bring you to the level to enter the world of work by consolidating your knowledge and skills from year one and two.

Modules

  • The aim of this module is to demonstrate your skills base through the continued development of critical, transferable study skills that are of practical benefit in the workplace and that promote and enable continued professional development. You will bring skills developed in other areas of the course into a practical project delivered as part of a group. The purpose of the project is to develop key learning skills and personal attributes that are required within the Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering and Built Environment professions. These should prepare you for professional work, demonstrating teamwork, project planning, critical and research evaluation as well as technical and personal reflection.

    Compulsory

  • The aim of the module is to develop your understanding and knowledge of the role of professional practitioners in the construction industry and the process of contract administration used in the construction industry. The module will explore the detailed understanding of contractual provisions and administration mechanisms related to common forms of contract used in the UK. Furthermore, it also discusses professionals’ roles and responsibilities, risk and application of financial management, legal and insurance issues and law related to running a business in the construction industry.

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to enable you to develop your research skills by conducting primary or secondary research focused on a specific problem of relevance to your discipline. You would use different methods and research skills, gained over previous years of study, to effectively communicate research novelties and ideas to the academic and non-academic communities. It will enable you to understand the importance of correct and critical analysis of all the factors involved in a problem and develop your initiative as you pursue and execute the investigation, demonstrating originality and creativity.

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to examine the nature of historic buildings and monuments and the varied motives for preserving them. The module will trace the history and theory of movements to preserve historic buildings and the conflicts that have frequently surrounded restoration campaigns. The module will cover controversial issues such as ‘skin deep preservation’ and the use of substitute materials. The issue of sustainability and the relationship of historic buildings to the townscape and landscape will be explored. There will also be a large focus on recording historic assets and what type of materials and methods were used in the original construction, and how these original materials and methods can be repaired

    Compulsory

  • This module aims to enable you to appreciate the fundamental principles of the range of professional skills needed by a Building Surveyor in practice, using a project-based approach (REL). The module will combine in a holistic way the following aspects: practical surveying skills, measurement of buildings and survey techniques, report writing to a professional standard providing preliminary guidance and advice, health and safety on site and environmental issues.

    Compulsory

  • This module will build upon the preliminary skills and information provided in the Comprehensive Building Surveying Project (Part 1) and aims to enable you to apply the fundamental principles of the range of professional skills needed by a Building Surveyor in practice using a project-based scenario approach. The module will combine in a holistic way the following aspects: practical surveying skills, measurement of buildings and survey techniques, report writing to a professional standard providing professional advice and guidance, detailed design solutions, budget costs estimates, sustainability, schedules of work and a project programme, resulting in the production of a professional Feasibility Study Report.

    Compulsory

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

How you'll learn

We try to provide you with as much real-life experience as possible and are fortunate that the city of Coventry has such a rich medieval history, offering excellent examples of many period buildings within walking distance of the university’s main campus.

The highly practical nature of the course enables you to work with staff and students on real-world problems from industry, commerce and research groups. This means that while you learn the technical content of your degree, these projects develop the professional skills required including: problem analysis and design; project, task and time management; risk assessment; team work and leadership; technical report and bench assessment; troubleshooting and more.

Several staff who currently teach on the course are Chartered building surveyors. They can provide help and guidance in relation to the process of becoming a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), specifically in relation to your post-degree assessment of professional competence, which comprises a written submission and professional interview carried out by the RICS regional training advisor (staff subject to change).

Teaching contact hours

We understand that everyone learns differently, so each of our courses will consist of structured teaching sessions, which can include:

  • On campus lectures, seminars and workshops
  • Group work
  • Self-directed learning
  • Work placement opportunities2.

The number of contact hours may vary from semester to semester, however, on average, it is likely to be around 14-15 contact hours per week in the first and second year dropping to around 11 contact hours per week in the final year as you become a more independent learner.

This course can be offered on a part-time basis. Whilst we would like to give you all the information about our part-time offering here, it is tailored for each course each year depending on the number of part-time applicants. Therefore, the part-time teaching arrangements vary. Request further information about part-time study.

In addition, you will be expected to undertake approximately 30-35 hours of self-directed study per week depending on the demands of individual modules. This self-directed learning allows you to use your research skills, consolidate your knowledge or undertake collaborative group work.

As an innovative and enterprising institution, the University may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended, or distance learning), the University may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are prepared for courses due to start in or after the 2023/2024 academic year to be delivered in a variety of forms. The form of delivery will be determined in accordance with Government and Public Health guidance. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module.

Assessment methods include:

  • Coursework
  • Reports
  • Projects
  • Phase tests
  • Group work
  • Presentations
  • Laboratories
  • Posters

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

International experience opportunities

Intercultural and international engagement within the education strategy is closely aligned to the global strategy and we aim to provide an expanded understanding of global issues through learning. You will have the opportunity to go on at least one part-funded field trip overseas2. Please note that bursaries may be available to assist with funding field trips. Such funding and/or bursaries will be subject to availability and meeting eligibility criteria. If a student is unable to attend a trip, the student will be required to undertake alternative coursework.

Entry requirements

Typical offer for 2023/24 entry.

Requirement What we're looking for
A level BBC
GCSE 5 GCSEs graded 4 / C or above including English and Mathematics
BTEC DMM
IB Diploma 29 points
Access to HE The Access to HE Diploma to include 30 Level 3 credits at Merit. Plus GCSE English and Mathematics at grade 4 / C or above.

If you do not have the typical entry requirements, you may want to consider studying this course with a foundation year. Upon successful completion our International Foundation Year - Engineering will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to progress onto this undergraduate degree.

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Are you eligible for the Fair Access Scheme?

We believe every student should have the opportunity to dream big, reach their potential and succeed, regardless of their background. Find out more about our Fair Access Scheme.

Select your region to find detailed information about entry requirements:

Europe

Americas

Middle East

South Asia

South East Asia

East Asia

Africa

Russia and Central Asia


You can view our full list of country specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events and how to apply.

English language requirements

  • IELTS: 6.0 overall (with at least 5.5 in each component area). 

If you do not have the typical entry requirements, you may want to consider studying this course with an international foundation year. Upon successful completion our International Foundation Year - Engineering will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to progress onto this undergraduate degree.

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

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Fees and funding

2023/24 tuition fees.

Student Full-time Part-time
UK £9,250 per year Request fee information
International £19,850 per year Not available

If you choose to do a work placement2, you should consider travel and living costs to cover this. There is also a tuition fee3 of £1,250 that will cover your academic support throughout your placement year.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see The University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

  • Optional international field trips: £400+ per trip.
  • Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad)

Other additional costs

  • Mandatory international field trips: Typically between £200 and £400 per trip

  • We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the government's Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

    If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

The faculty’s £50m Engineering and Computing Building and new £25m Beatrice Shilling Building are designed to support hands-on learning. Our Sir John Laing Building also houses a variety of industry-standard labs4 and equipment.

Students working in front of a virtual wall.

Simulation Centre

Our interactive training centre includes a ‘virtual’ construction site with fully equipped site cabins and an observation deck. Here, you can take part in role-play exercises to prepare you for a range of situations in the workplace.

Female student working in structures lab with male student looking on.

Structures laboratory

Includes eight test frames, two of which are fully programmable ‘top of the range’ Instron universal test machines. It also includes a strong floor area with associated framing and ancillary measurement devices.

Two male students pouring materials into a machine.

Materials laboratory

Includes industrial standard timber and steel workshops, a concrete mixing area with three pan mixers, programmable environmental chambers, a range of ovens and curing tanks and various materials testing apparatus.

Careers and opportunities

On successful completion, you will have knowledge of:

  • The key concepts, theories and principles used in construction, property and surveying. These will include legal principles; design, construction technology, performance of buildings; building defect identification and analysis; building adaptation; historic buildings and application of building surveying techniques.
  • Contemporary global issues facing the building surveying profession and driving change within it, for example, the sustainability/environmental agenda.
  • Professional ethics, their impact on the operation of the building surveying profession and their influence on the society; conflict avoidance/dispute resolution; communities and the stakeholders with whom they have contact.
  • Skills that promote safe working environments and safe buildings for habitation and use.
  • Select and use effectively a range of appropriate means of communication including information technology

On successful completion, you will be able to:

  • Work effectively with others within the context of a multidisciplinary team respecting the respective inputs from fellow professionals, client(s), and other stakeholders and reflecting on one's own performance and role within the team.
  • Present quantitative and qualitative information, together with analysis, argument and commentary, in a form appropriate to the intended audience, including appropriate acknowledgement and referencing of sources.
  • Produce professional reports in accordance with published conventions and/or client expectations.
  • Analyse, interpolate and present information.
  • Analyse and solve construction problems of a technical and managerial nature.
  • Analyse data and information sources in construction.

Building surveying offers a rewarding and challenging career where no two days are ever likely to be the same.

You could find yourself involved in all aspects of construction and it is now one of the broadest areas of surveying practice, taking in projects from a domestic extension to a major retail development. Building surveyors offer advice on many aspects of design and construction, including maintenance, repair, refurbishment and restoration of proposed and existing buildings.

They offer quality assessments and report on defects in, or ways of improving, all kinds of buildings. As well as finding structural faults, building surveyors recommend solutions. They can advise on the feasibility of a building project, and how much it might cost to carry out, or how suitable a building could be for a particular purpose.

Where our graduates work

Our graduates from similar courses have found employment in private practices, commercial organisations and local/central government, regionally, nationally and internationally. They work with companies such as Mace, Galliford Try, Balfour Beatty Plc, Lain O’ Rourke, Barrett Home Ltd, Watts Construction Ltd, and BAM Construction.

Further study

You can choose to continue your studies at Coventry University with the Construction Project and Cost Management MSc, Construction Project Management with BIM MSc or Sustainability and Environmental Management MSc. You may be entitled to an alumni discount on your fees if you decide to extend your time with us by progressing from undergraduate to postgraduate study

How to apply

  • 1Accreditations

    The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

    *In the event that there is any delay in obtaining approval, we will run Building Surveying BSc (Hons) for 2022-23 which has already been accredited by Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) .

    2UK and international opportunities

    Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or International opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel COVID and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

    3Tuition fees

    The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For Home Students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

    For International Students, we may increase fees each year but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

    4Facilities

    Facilities are subject to availability. Due to the ongoing restrictions relating to COVID-19, some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and may have reduced availability or restrictions on their use.

    Student Contract

    By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. The 2022/23 Contract is currently being updated so please revisit this page before submitting your application. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.

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