Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management BSc (Hons)

Study level: Undergraduate
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Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management (QSCM) is a course aimed at those wishing to enter the construction industry dealing with financial planning and control and legal aspects at a professional level.

Year of entry

Location

Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

3 years full-time
4 years sandwich

Course code

K240

Start date

September 2023

How to apply
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Course overview

This course covers construction cost estimating, including aspects of refurbishment and maintenance cost, procurement, quantification of elements using both traditional and electronic techniques, value management and contract/commercial issues. 

  • The course will use live, upcoming or recently completed projects to enable application of skills and knowledge learnt in an industry-specific and contextualised manner.
  • Our strong links with industry and the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) means that course delivery is mapped to employment needs, helping to make the transition to employment easier upon successful graduation.
  • Course content aims to develop contemporary skills such as the use of digital software for quantification and cost management.
  • Research-led teaching aims to ensure you are at the forefront of knowledge when entering the industry as a graduate.
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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

  • A common first year makes it possible to transfer to our degree-level courses in Architectural Technology, Construction Project Management or Building Surveying in the second year if you wish, after successful completion of Year one (subject to meeting progression requirements).
  • Current collaborative links with universities in 20 countries around the world, giving you the chance for you to spend part of your studies abroad2.
  • Opportunity to gain additional professional qualifications (at no extra cost, subject to application) as well as your degree, upon successful completion – an Autodesk certificate in Computer Aided Design (CAD) and chance to undergo a Building Research Establishment Energy Assessment Method (BREEAM) to become an Accredited Graduate (BREEAM AG).
  • Study on shared modules alongside students on a wide range of other professional disciplines, such as, construction management, architectural technology, building surveying, building services engineering and civil engineering, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of today’s construction industry.
  • Our Simulation Centre allows us to provide you with not only the opportunity to gain theoretical knowledge and skills but also the chance to develop the ability to apply this knowledge to realistic industrial situations within a safe environment4.

Accreditation and professional recognition

Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors

Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)

The BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management degree at Coventry is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) to start graduates along a recognised pathway to chartered membership. Accreditation is a continuous process with the current agreement in place until 20251.

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 MSci
  • Building Surveying BSc (Hons)
  • Construction Project 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. It will focus on your understanding and appreciation of both the specifics as well as the team aspects of the relevant professions. You will learn about project management, quantity surveying, building services engineering, building surveying, architecture and technology as well as real estate management with the process relevant to that profession in the overarching context of a building project. You will be practising aspects such as, but not limited to, design development, Auto CAD, measurement, condition surveys, site management and cost development.

    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 kinds of projects, project cost appraisal and innovation in projects. The knowledge of 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 enabling 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 number (3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 15 & 17) 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. In addition, 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 aims to introduce general principles and concepts of law related to the built environment. In preparation for their professional practice you will develop an ability to understand and apply legal principles to particular legal problems that may arise in the course of built environment activities. The module is specifically useful to those intending to be involved in the design and/or construction process. 

    Compulsory

  • Sustainability and the process linked to this such as financial control, and supply chain management are key to working in the construction sector, particularly in the quantity surveying, commercial management and construction project management roles. This module will explore the sustainable, financial and logistical management and control of all aspects of the supply chain including main contractors, sub-contractors and suppliers. The module is intended to cover the project procurement from procurement and selection through to completion exploring tools such as time management, quality management, negotiation, behavioural science, communication, collaboration and critical path development/analysis. It will also explore aspects of change management particularly in respect to variation to a project design or production method.

    Compulsory

  • The aim of the module is to introduce you to aspects related to the quantification and costing of projects using relevant digital platforms and appropriate industry software. It explores the measurement of various building components such as sheet piling, piles, pile caps, ground beams and structural steel frames in accordance with the New Rules of Measurement (NRM) and the Civil Engineering Standard Method of Measurement (CESMM). In addition, the module aims to develop your understanding in the production and preparation of cost plans and activity schedules. 

    Compulsory

  • This module will develop your understanding of the tools and techniques of project management and how to prepare and administer a construction contract using a Standard Form of Contract. The module will also explore procurement process for a built asset with a focus on finance, and the critical factors influencing the parties to the contract and the impact of their interactions on the project activities. 

    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 SDGs 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

  • This module2 provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

    Optional

  • This module2 provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

    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 contractual provisions and administration mechanisms related to common forms of contract used in UK. Furthermore, it also discusses professionals’ role 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 develop your understanding of digitised quantification into more complex aspects such as services measure, and 3d BIM Measure etc. It will also explore some of the more complex financial management aspects such as account analysis, value engineering and value management and cash flow management, project evaluation and appraisal including discount factor analysis, and net present value and earned value analysis. The main aim of this module is to enhance the skills needed and prepare you for the variety of employability aspects that may be available on completion of the degree. 

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to enhance and apply your understanding of pre-contract project and finance management. This will include the ability to apply quantification, tender evaluation, design economics, value engineering, sustainability and innovation, project appraisal, conflict avoidance and management to a given scenario or live project. The key aspect of this project is to assess the skills needed when working in pre-contract aspects of a project, ensuring employability skills are developed, ready for working in a global environment. 

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to enhance and apply your understanding of post-contract project and finance management. This will include the ability to apply supply chain management such as warranty analysis and appraisal, variation and valuation management, sustainable and innovative design solution and advice, cash flow and budget management, Strategic commercial management aspects and project financial management tools such as Value engineering, earned value analysis and critical path analysis. It will also further develop risk management and risk response aspects in relation to a scenario-based or live project. 

    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

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

With a focus on your future employability, you will have several opportunities to accelerate your professional development. In your first year, you have the option to undertake a Computer Aided Design (CAD) assessment (at no extra cost, application required) and, if successful, will receive industry recognised Autodesk certification.

Then, in your second year, you will have the opportunity to undertake a Building Research Establishment Energy Assessment Method (BREEAM), which, on successful completion, enables you to become certified as an Accredited Graduate (BREEAM AG) (at no extra cost, application required). BREEAM is widely acknowledged as the leading environmental assessment method – which sets the standard for best practice in sustainable building design, construction and operation. It has become one of the most comprehensive and widely recognised measures of environmental performance.

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.

If you would like more information, you can request information about teaching hours.

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.

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. The contact hours may be made up of a combination of face-to-face teaching, individual and group tutorials, and online classes and tutorials.

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 2022/2023 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:

  • Formal examinations
  • Phase tests
  • Essays
  • Group work
  • Presentations
  • Reports
  • Projects
  • Coursework
  • Exams
  • Individual Assignments
  • 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

Construction is a global industry with the demand for building professionals overseas set to rise dramatically. The United Nations has identified nine countries, which will account for half the world’s population growth between now and 2050: India, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Tanzania, the US, Indonesia and Uganda.

The content of the course continuously refers to the international context in which construction takes place, which gives an international perspective to your studies and potential future career as a construction manager.

During the course, you should have the option of participating in an international field trip2, which provides the opportunity to experience the built environment in other countries.

If you opt for a sandwich year, you can spend time studying abroad2; we currently have links with other Universities in Malaysia, Oman, Canada, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Poland and the Netherlands, which provide opportunities for student exchanges and student workshops and projects.

The course is developed with both industry and accrediting professional bodies needs in mind. This ensures that the graduates leaving this course are in demand and will have the necessary skills to not only secure their graduate position but also progress within their chosen sector quickly.

Dave Roberts, Course Director, Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management, quoted July 2022
Exterior view of the frank whittle building

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 to include 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 in Mathematics or Physical Science units. Plus GCSE English and Mathematics at grade 4 / C or above.

We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

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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 no component lower than 5.5

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 Not available
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 labs and equipment. Our aim is to offer you sector-leading facilities4.

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.

 

 

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.

 

 

Male student working on a computer

Computer suite/CAD facility

The study of digitised quantification requires an in-depth knowledge of relevant software such as CATO, CAD Measure, BIM Measure and Cost X, as well as a working understanding of CAD design software. Our computer facility has top-rated computer hardware to enable the practice of using these on projects.

Careers and opportunities

On successful completion, you will have knowledge of:

  • Economics of construction.
  • The legal and regulatory framework within which buildings are constructed.
  • Procurement and contract administration procedures.
  • Current innovations relating to the construction of buildings.
  • Building technology and construction processes.
  • Management processes and systems associated with construction.
  • Building science with respect to materials, structure, services and internal environment.
  • Design processes used in construction.
  • How quality is achieved in construction processes and products.
  • Health and safety in building design and construction.

On successful completion, you will be able to:

  • Analyse, interpolate and present information.
  • Analyse and solve construction problems of a technical and managerial nature.
  • Analyse data and information sources in construction.
  • Develop price estimates and cost budgets.
  • Analyse financial information and cost budgets.
  • Undertake procedures associated with project management.
  • Prepare pre-contractual documentation.
  • Prepare valuations and claims.
  • Assess stage payments.

Quantity surveyors and commercial managers play a pivotal role in the delivery of every construction projects; career prospects can exist wherever new projects are being contemplated, or where facilities are being refurbished, or where building work requires professional control. This is a global profession, so career prospects may be worldwide.

Coventry University is committed to preparing you for your future career and giving you a competitive edge in the graduate job market. The University’s Talent Team provide a range of support services to help you plan and prepare for your career. 

Where our graduates work

Our previous graduates have found employment in private practices, contracting organisations, commercial organisations and local/central government, regionally, nationally and internationally. They have gone on to work with companies such as Mace, Galliford Try, Balfour Beatty plc, Laing O’ Rourke, Barrett Homes, Watts Construction Ltd, and BAM Construct UK.

Further study

How to apply

  • Coventry University together with Coventry University London Campus, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the “University”) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University. 

    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.

    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

    Due to COVID-19, some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) and some non-academic offerings (particularly in relation to international experiences), 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 2023/24 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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