Program Overview

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Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management - BSc (Hons)

Overview

Give yourself a competitive advantage; join our exceptional team as your first step towards professional recognition and a diverse rewarding career.

Summary

Quantity Surveyors are construction professionals who manage and control the cost of major construction projects. You will be advising on the economic affordability of projects, typical development costs, procurement, tendering, contractual management, dispute avoidance and resolution, measurement and payment for completed works, ultimately striving to deliver projects within budget.

RICS accreditation provides you with global opportunities, which span key stakeholders throughout the construction supply chain, central and local government and as self-employed practitioners. Your transferrable skills will be equally sought after in other industries.

Job satisfaction is a key benefit in this highly rewarding career, contributing positively to the sustainable built environment of the future.

About this course

Typically 100% of our graduates gain graduate positions on an average salary of circa £31K (June '23) or enrol in a postgraduate course within 6 months of graduation. The majority confirm their destinations before leaving the programme, so our employability statistics compare favourably to other programmes in the university and any comparable course.

We aim to prepare you to make a positive impact on the economic sector within which you will be employed. Our experienced teaching team are at the cutting edge of the discipline through academic enterprise, providing Continuing Professional Development to industry on topics spanning the likes of standard forms of contract, new rules of measurement and building information modelling. We incorporate these topics into the programme, in addition to mapping the modules against the professional competencies required by the RICS’s Assessment of Professional Competence. You can therefore take advantage of the resources we provide to develop your understanding of procurement, contract administration, data management, estimating and managing costs. You can then apply these tools to any building or civil engineering project of any scale, or to other projects in other industries of similar scale and complexity, like renewable energies or oil and gas. Your skills will embody the core technical competencies that define the quantity surveying profession as well as the soft transferable skills valued by many key employers.

Fundamental themes of construction measurement, construction technology, law and economics and principles of ethics and sustainability are threaded throughout the four years of study. You will be provided with an opportunity to undertake a paid placement year, either in the UK, Ireland or overseas, where you put your learning into practice, with an average salary of circa £21K (June '23), most of which lead to full time graduate employment offers.

Associate awards

• Diploma in Professional Practice DPP
• Diploma in Professional Practice International DPPI
• Diploma in International Academic Studies DIAS

Attendance

Four years (including placement year). Full Time.

Years one, two and four are each based on 2 semesters of 12 weeks on a five day per week schedule where approximately three days are dedicated to face to face, teaching, in the form of lectures, tutorials, seminars and practicals and the remaining two days are designated to independent learning and study to complete the necessary assignment workload.

In year three (Placement Year) students will be required to work in practice as per the office hours of the employing company. This is normally for a full one year duration.

Start dates

• September 2025

Teaching, Learning and Assessment

Knowledge and understanding of the subject are acquired mainly through lectures, tutorials, directed reading, laboratories, case studies, seminars, and IT based resources. Intellectual qualities are developed through exercise classes/tutorials, coursework assignments, individual and group studio work and simulation exercises. Professional and practical skills are gained through coursework assignments including, laboratory work, problem solving assignments and studio work undertaken individually or in small groups, a group project and an individual final year research dissertation. Basic IT and communication skills are taught in Year 1. These and the other transferrable skills including delivering presentations are developed through coursework assignments including the preparation of reports, problem solving assignments / studio work undertaken individually or in small groups and an individual final year research dissertation.

We have ample computer labs with all required software available on campus, however for more convenient access to the software, a windows-based device (PC, laptop, or Surface Pro) is recommended for compatibility with the majority of specialist software used. The most demanding software would Autodesk Revit, so if your device can cope with this, it will handle anything else you would be expected to use.

Assessment of the above is principally through formal closed book examinations, class tests and coursework assignments consisting of reports, essays, individual and group exercises, group projects, oral/poster presentations and an individual final year research dissertation.

Modules

Year one

• Introduction to the Built Environment
• Analytical Methods and Quantification
• Domestic Building Technology
• Built Environment Economics
• Law, Governance and Society
• Digital Construction and Communication

Year two

• Commercial Building Technology
• Quantification and Costing of construction works
• Sustainable Procurement and Tendering
• Cost Planning and Design Value Economics
• Construction Contracts
• Digital Quantification and Commercial Management

Year three

• Professional Practice - Quantity Surveying

Year four

• Research and Dissertation A
• Research and Dissertation B
• Project Management
• Advanced Measurement
• Construction Economics
• Quantity Surveying Project

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

• ABB including one from Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Engineering or Construction.
• If not offering any of these subjects the entry requirement is AAA, all subjects considered.

Applied General Qualifications

• ABB equivalent - subject required: QCF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Construction/Civil, Engineering or Applied Science Award profile of D*DD
• RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Construction/Civil, Engineering or Applied Science / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering (2019 suite) Award profile of D*DD
• RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Construction/Civil, Engineering or Applied Science / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering (2016 suite) Award profile of DDM
• AAA equivalent - no subject required: QCF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma (2012 suite) Award profile of DDD
• RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma (2019 suite) Award profile of DDD
• RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma / OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma (2016 suite) Award profile of DDD

Irish Leaving Certificate

• ABB equivalent: 128 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.
• Course Specific Subject Requirements: This course also requires you to achieve H3 in one subject from Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Physics/Chemistry, Biology, Construction or Engineering. If Maths is not being offered as a subject at H3 you will be required to achieve a minimum of H6 if studied at Higher Level or O4 if studied at Ordinary Level.
• AAA equivalent: 144 UCAS Tariff Points to include a minimum of five subjects (four of which must be at higher level) to include English and Maths at H6 if studied at Higher level or O4 if studied at Ordinary Level.

Scottish Highers

• Grades BBBBC to include one from Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Engineering or Construction.
• If not offering any of these subjects the requirement is ABBBB.

Scottish Advanced Highers

• Grades BBC to include one from Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Engineering or Construction.
• If not offering any of the above subjects the requirement is ABB.

International Baccalaureate

• ABB equivalent: Overall profile is minimum of 27 points (13 at higher level) to include Mathematics and one other science subject at HL. English is also required at grade 4 Ordinary Level.
• AAA equivalent: Overall profile is minimum of 29 points (14 at higher level) English and Mathematics is also required at grade 4 Ordinary Level.

Access to Higher Education (HE)

• ABB equivalent: Overall profile of 70% in a Science, Science and Technology, Construction or Engineering subject area to include 70% in each of the level 3 modules and to include 40% in NICATS level 2 Maths module (120 credit Access Course) (NI Access Course)
• Overall profile of 30 credits at Distinction/15 credits at Merit (60 credit Access Course) (GB Access Course)
• AAA equivalent all subjects considered: Overall profile of 75% to include 75% in each of the level 3 modules and to include 40% in Level 2 NICATS Maths (120 credit Access Course) (NI Access Course)
• Overall profile of 45 credits at Distinction (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

• 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

• AAA equivalent: HNC Year 1 Entry: Pass HNC with overall Distinction to include Distinctions in all Level 4 credits, all subject areas considered
• HND Year 1 Entry: Pass HND, all subject areas considered. GCSE Maths Grade C/4 or an alternative Mathematics qualification acceptable to the University is also required.
• ABB equivalent: HNC Year 1 Entry: Pass HNC with overall Distinction to include 105 credits at Level 4 at Distinction in a Construction subject area.
• HND Year 1 Entry: Pass HND, all subject areas considered. GCSE Maths Grade C/4 or an alternative Mathematics qualification acceptable to the University is also required.
• Ulster Foundation Degree Year 1 Entry: Successful completion of Foundation Degree.

Exemptions and transferability

• Students normally enter into Year 1.
• Transfer may be available between full-time and part-time modes of study at appropriate transfer stages (i.e. level 4 or level 5) in the course.
• There is no direct transferability between the surveying related courses within the School.
• Direct Entry to Year 2: In exceptional circumstances, if evidence of previous relevant study can be provided, consideration may be given to entry into the second year.
• Entry to Final Year: A minimum of one third of the degree must be undertaken at Ulster University, which would require 20 credit points from a year 2 module from the programme to be passed prior to starting final year. Modules passed at other institutions must be reviewed to check alignment with Learning Outcomes from Ulster University's programme. Please contact the Course Director to discuss.

Careers & opportunities

Graduate employers

• Graduates from this course are now working for:
  • Graham Construction
  • AECOM
  • F P McCann
  • Rainey & Best
  • Breedan Group
  • Farrans Construction
  • Tetra Tech

Job roles

• With this degree you could become:
  • Quantity Surveyor
  • Surveyor/Project Manager
  • Graduate Costs and Project Manager
  • Commercial Manager
  • Construction Cost Consultant
  • Cost Engineer
  • Measurement Engineer

Career options

• Most quantity surveying graduates take up positions, involving the financial and administrative management of construction projects, development companies, contracting organisations and property departments in both the public or private professional sectors. The course is also of relevance to those intending to map out a progressive career in any aspect of the construction industry. RICS accreditation provides graduates with global opportunities.
• In addition, the course provides an excellent foundation for graduates who wish to undertake postgraduate study or research.

Work placement / study abroad

• Year 3 is spent in supervised professional practice comprising a module of 60 credit points.
• Diploma in Professional Practice (DPP)
• As part of the 3rd year of the full time programme, this is awarded following the satisfactory achievement of the learning outcomes associated with the placement module, when placement is undertaken within the UK / Ireland.
• Diploma in Professional Practice (International) (DPP(I))
• As part of the 3rd year of the full time programme, this is awarded following the satisfactory achievement of the learning outcomes associated with the placement module, when placement is undertaken outside the UK / Ireland.
• Diploma in International Academic Studies (DIAS)
• As part of the 3rd year of the full time programme, this is awarded following the satisfactory achievement of the learning outcomes associated with an approved international study programme which would be taken instead of the placement module / DPP Award.

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.
• 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

Scholarships, awards and prizes

• Deans List: For outstanding performance of students within the Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment (Level 4 and Level 5 modules).
• The programme hosts an annual student awards and stakeholder engagement event to celebrate the achievements of our students.
• June 2018 prizes to a cumulative financial value of £7K
• June 2019 prizes to a cumulative financial value of £8.5K
• September 2020 prizes to a cumulative financial value of £10K
• June 2021 prizes to a cumulative value of £15K
• June 2022 prizes to a cumulaive value of £16K
• June 2023 prizes to a cumulative value of £15K
• June 2024 prizes to a cumulaive value of £16K
• Level 4; sponsors include; Tetra Tech, Pentagon Solutions, Heron Brothers, Buildsoft Software Solutions, Graham Construction, Henry Brothers and CITBNI.
• Level 5: sponsors include; Breedon Group, McLaughlin and Harvey, Gilbert Ash, Society of Construction Law, McAvoy Group, MJM Marine, Errigal Contracts, Mascott Construction, O'Hare & McGovern, Graham Construction, MSM Contracts and Faithful and Gould.
• Level 6: FP McCann, Farrans, CSR Recruitment, Specialist Joinery Group, McAleer & Rushe, BTY, Hays Recruitment, Mitchell McDermott, Mascott Construction and Faithful and Gould.

Additional mandatory costs

• Books
  • Year 1 - New Rules and Measurements (NRM2) £45 approx.
  • Year 2 - New Rules and Measurements (NRM1) £45 approx and Civil Engineering Standard Method of Measurement 4th Edition (CESMM4) £50 approx.
• 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.

Testimonials

• Rainey & Best: "The QS & CM course covers the competencies required of the modern QS while remaining interesting and engaging throughout. Each year, the modules build on the concepts of previous years, which allows you to develop your skills over the course of your studies. The placement year provides invaluable experience in not only the professional world but in the application of concepts studied during the first two years of the course. This combination of university study and real world application means that students are well prepared to take on the role of the QS upon graduating." Meghan Hoey (class of 2019).
• Thomas Murphy (Class of 2019): "I credit my experience, knowledge and professional confidence to my time spent Ulster University. The course staff with their many years of industrial experience and knowledge opened many doors for me providing the opportunity to study abroad, gaining international work experience as well as carrying out my research alongside multiple professional and governmental organisations.
• I found the course content and layout very applicable to the industry facilitating and supporting each student in building their skills and confidences needed outside of the classroom. It provides modules on multiple areas and disciplines of the industry, offering the opportunity for crossover modules with other construction-based courses and students further developing our proficiency in working both individually and as part of a multi-disciplinary team. The course staff really do care, taking the time to ensure each student's personal and professional growth throughout their time in the University, going above and beyond what would be considered 'the norm' to ensure the course provides its students with everything they need prosper in their future and careers within the industry."
• Keenwood Construction Limited: "Currently at Keenwood Construction Ltd. our Senior Quantity Surveyor, Darren Hamill, is a BSc (Hons) Graduate, having graduated from Ulster University BSc Hons. Programme in 2012. Darren quickly rose to the position of Senior Quantity Surveyor within the company, his professionalism and high standard of his work is testament to the good foundation he received on the Ulster University BSc.(Hons) Quantity Surveying course." (Seamus Keenan – Managing Director, 2019)
• Quantity Surveying Placement Student: "As a 3rd Year Quantity Surveying & Commercial Management Student at Ulster University, I am currently undertaking my placement year with a local joinery company, working primarily in the London market.
• The course at Ulster University has equipped me with a knowledge and understanding of a broad range of current, relevant topics that has pre-empted an understanding of the role of the Quantity Surveyor and his/her duties in delivering successful projects. The staff within the Surveying programme prepare students for the placement year well, promoting and encouraging the use of a Structured Training Plan to steer the trajectory of the student’s career towards becoming chartered members of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) professional body.
• The course has provided me with a new skillset, which I now put into practice during my placement year. This in turn has instilled a newfound confidence in my abilities. I look forward to returning to Ulster University to complete my final year." (Stephen McElwee, 2019)
• Tinnelly Construction Ltd: "I thoroughly enjoyed my time studying within the QS programme. I feel that once I have embarked into the working world I will have taken a lot from the course with me which has set me up for a career as a graduate QS. I feel a lot of the modules studied have been very relevant to reality and would definitely recommend the QS & CM degree" Mark Hadden (class of 2015).