Program Overview

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Building Surveying - BSc (Hons)

Overview

The effective assessment and care of our built environment through a professionally informed approach.

Summary

Building surveyors are concerned with the provision of expert advice on all aspects of design, construction, maintenance and repair of buildings and the conservation of the built heritage. Much of their work involves the assessment of the condition of buildings and specifying remedial work to be undertaken.

The work of the Building Surveyor is wide ranging and involves both site and office based activities.

Award

Bachelor of Science with Honours

Faculty

Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment

School

Belfast School of Architecture and the Built Environment

Campus

Belfast campus

UCAS code

K231

Start date

September 2025

Duration

4 years full-time

Attendance

This full-time course is normally of 4 years duration, however, depending on previous experience and qualifications gained, some level of exemption may be available.

Teaching, Learning and Assessment

The programme incorporates a range of teaching methods to encourage students to adopt a knowledge seeking attitude; to build up confidence in their own ability to learn to make reasoned judgements based on available evidence and to incorporate a practical-based dimension to their studies. The teaching and learning methods are designed to offer both academic and subject progression from Level 4 through to Level 6. In conjunction with the respective learning methods at each level, students are encouraged to adopt a student centred approach to their learning, through directed reading and individual research of projects and case studies.

Modules

Year one

• Building and Land Measurement
  • Year: 1
  • Status: C
  • This module develops a range of the professional skills of a building surveyor working in the Built Environment. The theory and principles of the measurement of land and buildings are established. The practices of building and land measurement, along with the procedures for recording, manipulation and presentation of measured data are developed which will equip the learner with the skills required in a practice based environment.
• Introduction to the Built Environment
  • Year: 1
  • Status: C
  • The module presents a wide-ranging overview of the impact of public & private development, statutory legislation, procurement, building design and construction on UK industry and society. It presents the background to the development of professional and industry norms and also challenges a number of orthodoxies.
• Domestic Building Technology
  • Year: 1
  • Status: C
  • This module provides a general introduction to construction technology with specific emphasis on the sustainable construction of small-scale, low-rise buildings.
• Law, Governance and Society
  • Year: 1
  • Status: C
  • This module introduces students to the fundamental principles of governance and the legal framework in contemporary society. Students examine the interrelationship between governance actors, the legal system and social policy for advancing sustainable development and improving social, economic and environmental well-being.
• Digital Construction and Communication
  • Year: 1
  • Status: C
  • The modern day built environment professional is required to communicate effectively utilising electronic tools with the rest of the project team. This has been mandated by the UK Cabinet Office Construction Strategy, by European Commission procurement regulations and is being followed across the world.
• Materials and Structures
  • Year: 1
  • Status: C
  • This module will provide students with a basic understanding of fundamental material science and a comprehensive understanding of the composition, microstructure, and engineering behaviour of materials used in construction applications.

Year two

• Advanced Building Technology
  • Year: 2
  • Status: C
  • The intention of this module is to help develop an appreciation of the integrative nature of technical and design decision making, along with construction techniques, for a range of non-domestic building types, and how this has evolved over time.
• Structural Concepts and Services
  • Year: 2
  • Status: C
  • This module highlights the challenges in providing structural solutions to non-domestic buildings and the integration of building services within such buildings for the health, safety and wellbeing of the building occupants and users.
• Professional Practice and Project
  • Year: 2
  • Status: C
  • This module introduces the student to the role of Chartered Building Surveyors in the Property Cycle, together with the RICS Regulatory framework therein associated. It introduces building survey principles for residential and commercial buildings.
• Built and Environmental Conservation
  • Year: 2
  • Status: C
  • This module highlights the challenges that exist within the construction industry regarding environmental conservation and illustrates how these challenges can be met.
• Hygrothermal Building Performance
  • Year: 2
  • Status: C
  • Heat, air and moisture transport and storage in buildings has the potential to impact significantly on the operational performance of buildings and durability of building fabric as well as the comfort and wellbeing of the building occupants.
• Property and Construction Law
  • Year: 2
  • Status: C
  • This module will consider the fundamental principles and rules of the law of real property.

Year three

• Professional Practice - Building Surveying
  • Year: 3
  • Status: C
  • This module provides undergraduate students with an opportunity to gain structured and professional work experience, in a work-based learning environment, as part of their planned programme of study.

Year four

• Research and Dissertation A
  • Year: 4
  • Status: C
  • This module enables the student to identify and undertake an independent in-depth research study of an area of particular significance relating to the course of study.
• Research and Dissertation B
  • Year: 4
  • Status: C
  • This module follows BEN510 and facilitates students in developing creative, critical evaluative and analytic research skills to enable students to undertake empirical data collection, perform appropriate data analysis, critically discuss findings that will lead to justifiable recommendations and conclusions based upon contemporary research and professional practices.
• Green Building Design
  • Year: 4
  • Status: C
  • This module will allow students to understand and critically appraise the factors affecting energy consumption in buildings enabling them to explore a wide range of low energy options in both domestic and non-domestic buildings.
• Building Surveying Project
  • Year: 4
  • Status: C
  • This module provides an opportunity for the building surveying student to utilise skills, techniques, knowledge and information drawn from other modules of both the building surveying and quantity surveying programmes and to apply these in a structured manner to the investigation and resolution of work based scenarios and related problems.
• Financial Management and Economics
  • Year: 4
  • Status: C
  • The module is designed to provide students with an understanding of the procedures and techniques used in the financial control and management of construction projects.
• Building Pathology
  • Year: 4
  • Status: C
  • This module will provide students with the practical knowledge and understanding of the processes involved in building surveying, analysis, repair and conservation of existing buildings of all types.

Standard entry conditions

We recognise a range of qualifications for admission to our courses. In addition to the specific entry conditions for this course you must also meet the University’s General Entrance Requirements.

A level

BBC including

A-Level Essential
Grade B in one of the following subjects: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Engineering, Technology (including Environmental Technology, Environmental Science, Digital Technology, Technology & Design, Design & Technology), Geography, Life and Health Science (single or double award) Applied Science or ICT.

Providing the subject requirement is met, applicants can satisfy the requirement for one of the A-level grades (or equivalent) by substituting a combination of alternative qualifications recognised by the University.

Applied General Qualifications

QCF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Construction, Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Land Use and Surveying, Land Administration, Applied Science or IT
Award profile of DDD

RQF (2019) Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Construction, Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Land Use and Surveying, Land Administration, Applied Science or IT
Award profile of DDD

RQF (2016) Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Construction, Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Land Use and Surveying, Land Administration, Applied Science or IT
Award profile of DMM

QCF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Construction, Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Land Use and Surveying, Land Administration, Applied Science or IT
Award profile of DM plus A Level Grade B

RQF (2019) Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Construction, Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Land Use and Surveying, Land Administration, Applied Science or IT
Award profile of DM plus A Level Grade B

RQF (2016) Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Construction, Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Land Use and Surveying, Land Administration, Applied Science or IT
Award profile of DM plus A Level Grade B

QCF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Construction, Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Land Use and Surveying, Land Administration, Applied Science or IT
Award profile of D plus A Level Grades BC

RQF (2019) Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Construction, Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Land Use and Surveying, Land Administration, Applied Science or IT
Award profile of D plus A Level Grades BC

RQF (2016) Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Construction, Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Land Use and Surveying, Land Administration, Applied Science or IT
Award profile of D plus A Level Grades BC

If A levels are being presented with QCF/RQF BTEC awards in other subjects then the A level subject requirement must be met.

Please note OCR Nationals and Cambridge Technical Combinations do not satisfy the subject entry requirement for this course and will be accepted as grade only when presented with A levels in the required subject(s).

The subject requirement must be met.

For further information on the requirements for this course please contact the administrator as listed in the Contact details section below.

Irish Leaving Certificate

112 UCAS Tariff Points to include a minimum of five subjects (four of which must be at Higher Level) to include English at H6 if studied at Higher Level or O4 if studied at Ordinary Level.

This course also requires you to achieve H3 in one subject from Physics, Maths, Technology, Chemistry, Biology or Engineering. If Mathematics is not passed at H3, you will be required to achieve a minimum of H6 if studied at Higher Level or O4 at Ordinary Level in addition to one of the subjects above.

Scottish Highers

Grades BBCCC to include one subject from Maths, Technology, Chemistry, Biology or Engineering.

Scottish Advanced Highers

Grades CCD to include one subject from Maths, Technology, Chemistry, Biology or Engineering.

International Baccalaureate

Overall profile is minimum 25 points (including 12 at higher level) to include grade 4 in HL Maths and another HL science subject. Grade 4 in English Language is also required in overall profile.

Access to Higher Education (HE)

Access Course (120 credit Access Course) (NI Access Course) in a Science, Science and Technology subject area with an overall mark of 63% to include 63% in each of the level 3 modules for Year 1 entry.

Applicants who do not have GCSE Maths grade C/4 must also achieve a Pass in NICATS Maths level 2.

Overall profile of 15 Distinctions and 30 Merits (60 credit Access Course) (GB Access Course).

GCSE

For full-time study, you must satisfy the General Entrance Requirements for admission to a first degree course and hold a GCSE pass at Grade C/4 or above in English Language and Mathematics (or equivalent).

Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills - Communication will be accepted as equivalent to GCSE English.

Please note that for purposes of entry to this course the Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills - Application of Number is NOT regarded as an acceptable alternative to GCSE Maths.

English Language Requirements

English language requirements for international applicants
The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.

Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.

Additional Entry Requirements

HNC
Pass HNC in Construction with overall Distinction to include 75 level 4 credits at Distinction for year one entry.

HND Year 1
​Pass HND in Construction, Engineering, Land Use and Surveying and Land Administration. GCSE Maths Grade C/4 or an alternative Mathematics qualification acceptable to the University is also required.

HND Year 2
Pass HND in Construction, Engineering, Land Use and Surveying and Land Administration with overall Merit to include 45 level 5 credits at Distinction for year 2 entry.

Ulster Foundation Degree
Pass in Foundation Degree in Construction Engineering with Surveying, Building Technology and Management or Architectural Technology with an overall mark of 50%, and minimum 50% in all taught level 5 modules. Applicants will normally be considered for year 2 entry to the linked Honours degree.

For further information on the requirements for this course please contact the administrator as listed in the Contact details section below.

Exemptions and transferability

Most students enter into Year 1, however if evidence of previous relevant study exists you may be considered for entry to later years. Transfer may also be available between part-time and full-time modes of study. Each year of study on the part-time mode equates to 1/2 a year of study on a full-time mode. Transfer to full-time study would normally be at the end of years 2 or 4.

Careers & opportunities

Graduate employers

Graduates from this course are now working for:

• E C Harris
• Malcolm Hollis
• MLM Building Control
• Moore McDonald
• VB Evans
• W H Stephens
• Northern Ireland Housing Executive

Job roles

With this degree you could become:

• Building Control Surveyor
• Building Surveyor
• Contracts Manager
• Development Officer
• Estate Surveyor
• Graduate Surveyor

Career options

Most graduates are employed in professional surveying practices, government or commercial organisations.

This course also provides an ideal foundation for graduates who wish to undertake postgraduate study or research within the Ulster University or other academic institutions.

Work placement / study abroad

Work placement is taken in year 3 of the course. The Diploma in Professional Practice (DPP) is awarded for successful completion of placement.

Professional Recognition

Accreditations reflect the excellence of our teaching, research, and knowledge exchange and ensure our programmes realise the highest expectations. By studying at Ulster University you’ll gain insight and be at the forefront of current industry practices, while our many accredited degree programmes open doors to the world’s top professional organisations, making you more attractive to future employers and giving you a competitive edge in the job market.

Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE)

Accredited by the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE).

Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)

Accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) for the purpose of graduate membership.

Fees and funding

Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and EU Settlement Status Fees

£4,855.00

England, Scotland, Wales and the Islands Fees

£9,535.00

International Fees

£17,010.00

Annual Increase Disclaimer

Important Notice: Annual Fees Increase

Annual Fees Increase Disclaimer

Fees illustrated are based on academic year 25/26 entry and are subject to an annual increase.

If your study continues into future academic years your fees are subject to an annual increase. Please take this into consideration when you estimate your total fees for a degree.

Additional mandatory costs are highlighted where they are known in advance. There are other costs associated with university study.

Visit our Fees pages for full details of fees.

Correct at the time of publishing. Terms and conditions apply.

Scholarships, awards and prizes

School of the Built Environment Prize - Best student in Level 5 Building Surveying - £50.

Chartered Association of Building Engineers Award - Best Final Year Student, 1 years CABE Membership

Moore MacDonald & Partners Prize- Best mark in Building Assessment Module (year 4) £500

CBRE Prize- Best mark in Professional Practice module (year 2) - £100

Additional mandatory costs

It is important to remember that costs associated with accommodation, travel (including car parking charges) and normal living will need to be covered in addition to tuition fees.

Where a course has additional mandatory expenses (in addition to tuition fees) we make every effort to highlight them above. We aim to provide students with the learning materials needed to support their studies. Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. Computer suites and free Wi-Fi are also available on each of the campuses.

There are additional fees for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.

Students choosing a period of paid work placement or study abroad as a part of their course should be aware that there may be additional travel and living costs, as well as tuition fees.

See the tuition fees on our student guide for most up to date costs.

Testimonials

“During my placement year I worked for a major Health Trust. I found the year to be incredibly beneficial in terms of both my personal development and the exposure to a range of problem solving activities presented in maintaining the portfolio of buildings.”

Fintan (Final Year)

“My placement role has had a profound effect on me. The skills and knowledge I have acquired have been incredibly beneficial for my final year studies and my future career as a Chartered Building Surveyor.”

Adam (Final Year)

“The course allowed me to embark on a great career and find the right job. The stresses of University and the subsequent search for employment are worth it in the end. You have to find the job. The job won’t find you. BE PROACTIVE”

Stephen (Graduate Project Leader, Houses of Parliament)

“The Building Surveying degree is so varied it opens up so many opportunities in all facets of the construction industry”

Daniel (City & Country, Graduate Building Surveyor)

“Achieving a good degree in BSc Building Surveying gave me the platform to continue to Postgraduate Study, which allowed me to specialize in an area of Surveying I perhaps could not have done otherwise.”

David (Surveyor, Commonwealth War Graves Commission, Africa & Asia Pacific Area)

Sustainability at Ulster

Ulster continues to develop and support sustainability initiatives with our staff, students, and external partners across various aspects of teaching, research, professional services operations, and governance.

At Ulster every person, course, research project, and professional service area on every campus either does or can contribute in some way towards the global sustainability and climate change agenda.

We are guided by both our University Strategy People, Place and Partnerships : Delivering Sustainable Futures for All and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Our work in this area is already being recognised globally. Most recently by the 2024 Times Higher Education Impact rating where we were recognised as Joint 5th Globally for Outreach Activities and Joint Top 20 Globally for Sustainable Development Goal 17: Partnership for the Goals.

Visit our Sustainability at Ulster destination to learn more about how the University strategy and the activities of Ulster University support each of the Sustainable Development Goals.