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Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management

BSc (Hons)

UCAS code: KN22

Start dates: September 2024 / September 2025

Full time: 4 years, including 1-year work placement

Part time: Please contact us for details.

Location: Headington

Department(s): School of the Built Environment

Overview
Course details
Careers
Entry requirements
How to apply
Tuition fees

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Overview

Lots of people are involved in the construction process. But no matter how creative the design is, or how skilled the tradespeople are, there’s one factor that can’t be ignored: cost. That’s why quantity surveyors are vital in everything from preparing contracts to valuing the completed work.

Study Quantity Surveying at Oxford Brookes and we’ll help you develop the huge range of skills you’ll need to handle a variety of situations on and off site. We developed the course around the third-year work placement – we’ll help you quickly learn the practical knowledge to succeed in the working world and make the most of this opportunity.

Your degree will be accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and the Chartered Institute of Building. That means you can join as a student member and work towards chartered status. And by covering a wide range of topics, we’ve made sure other careers stay open to you. Years 1 to 3 are shared with our other construction courses so you can even change course up until year 4.

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Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management

Why Oxford Brookes University?

  • Connect with employers

    We have great links with big names and specialist companies who offer placements and send in staff to share their experience with you.

  • Fast track your career

    We find that our graduates are ready to progress quickly in the workplace thanks to our focus on essential skills and their experience of the placement year.

  • Keep your options open

    The first 3 years are shared with Construction Project Management and Building Surveying so you can learn a range of skills and even switch course.

  • Expert teaching team

    Our staff are qualified and experienced in a range of fields. You’ll learn from surveyors, architects, civil engineers – and outside experts too.

  • Multiple field trips

    Site visits are essential to see things in practice. You’ll visit construction projects in Oxford in your very first week. In the second year, we’ll go to Europe.

  • Free language courses

    Free language courses are available to full-time undergraduate and postgraduate students on many of our courses, and can be taken as a credit on some courses.

  • Study abroad

    You may be able to go on a European or international study exchange while you are at Brookes. Most exchanges take place in the second year. Although we will help as much as we can with your plans, ultimately you are responsible for organising and funding this study abroad.

  • Accreditation(s)

    Accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB)

    • Chartered Institute of Building
    • Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors

Course details

Course structure

You’ll start the course with the essentials, covering topics like Introduction to Construction Practice. By Year 2, you’ll start to develop more specialist skills for quantity surveying. As your classes will be shared with the other construction courses, you’ll learn about project management and building surveying too.

In Year 2, we’ll also start to prepare you for your year in industry. You’ll develop practical skills, focusing on things that employers have told us are important to them.

Your work placement in Year 3 is a real highlight of the course. We have great relationships with a range of companies so you’ll have lots to choose from. Some firms even offer their placement students a job before they’ve graduated.

In your final year, you’ll bring all your knowledge and experience together studying on specialist financial control and commercial management modules. You’ll also complete a dissertation to explore a topic in more depth.

Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management

Learning and teaching

Our supportive staff are experts in their field. You will learn in modern, well-equipped facilities. 

We design our teaching methods to develop your:

  • professional skills
  • personal skills
  • study skills.

Learning activities include:

  • practical work
  • simulated construction projects
  • presentations
  • small-group tutorials
  • lectures
  • demonstrations.

Assessment

We use a variety of assessment methods, including:

  • coursework assignments
  • laboratory and field practicals
  • class and web-based tests
  • oral presentations
  • group work
  • examinations.

Field Trips

There are a number of one-day UK field trips during the course to aid knowledge and understanding through live projects.

In the second year there is a mandatory European field trip aimed at broadening your understanding of construction design and management outside the UK. This is a mandatory field trip and comes at no additional cost. A separate fee will apply for any optional field trips.

Study modules

Year 1

Compulsory modules

  • Construction Communication and Information Technology I (15 credits)

    In this module, you will delve into the realm of construction communication and emerging information technology. Through hands-on practice, you will develop skills in both manual and computer-aided drawing, essential tools for conveying construction plans accurately. Furthermore, the module will acquaint you with communication and information technologies (CIT) that play a pivotal role in modern construction practices. You will learn how to utilise database management systems to manage, coordinate, communicate, and share project information efficiently.

    By the end of this module, you will be capable of preparing 2D technical drawings using computer-aided design tools and adhering to industry conventions. You will also become adept at independent problem-solving and information preparation, all while harnessing the power of contemporary information technology for the enhancement of construction processes.
     

  • Introduction to Construction Practice (15 credits)

    In this module, you will be introduced to the dynamic workings of the construction sector and the pivotal factors driving successful project delivery for diverse clientele. Also, you'll explore the diverse landscape of construction activities, ranging from new developments on untouched sites to the intricate interplay of replacements, extensions, and alterations in existing built environments. Additionally, you will delve into pre-contract cost management techniques, including cost planning based on the New Rules of Measurement (NRM). 


    By the end of this module, you will possess a comprehensive grasp of the construction industry's intricate operations, procurement processes, and economic principles. Moreover, you will be adept at applying essential cost management techniques and utilising key industry resources for accurate cost estimates, making you well-prepared to contribute effectively to construction projects and their successful outcomes
     

  • Building Design and Construction 1 (15 credits)

    Discover the principles of building design and construction in this introductory module. This module takes you through the key stages of residential building design, from the initial concept and client's brief to the selection of finishes. Emphasis is placed on developing your understanding of construction technology by exploring the appropriate use of building materials, design details, and construction techniques. You will also be introduced to the concept of client care, the formation of professional relationships, and the professional standards expected of a Chartered Surveyor. Furthermore, this module will provide you with an understanding of inclusive environments, considering the diverse needs of users and differentiating between legal requirements and ethical considerations in residential building design.

  • Foundation Construction Law (15 credits)

    This module serves as your introduction to the realm of law, with a specific focus on contract law and tort law. This module aims to provide you with foundational knowledge in these areas, emphasising contract formation, property torts, and statutory laws relevant to the built environment. By doing so, it lays the groundwork for more advanced studies in construction procurement, quantity surveying, and building surveying at levels 5 and 6.

    By the end of this module, you will develop a solid understanding of civil obligations within the legal framework of England and Wales. Furthermore, you will explore the statutory regulations that have a direct impact on the construction industry. Research skills are a fundamental component of this module, equipping you with the ability to effectively utilise primary and secondary legal sources. 
     

  • Integrative Project I (15 credits)


    This module helps develop crucial skills for the construction industry. You will explore construction management from various perspectives, including planning, technology, sustainability, climate change impacts, and commercial management. An essential component of the module is the integration of sustainability and climate change considerations into construction management. You will apply the processes of analysis and reflection to real-life projects, exploring ways to incorporate sustainable practices and address climate change impacts. Additionally, you will develop a solid foundation in basic mathematical techniques, enabling you to tackle discipline-based problems with confidence. 

    On successful completion of this module, you’ll develop problem-solving abilities with basic maths techniques and construction management software. Moreover, through group work and seminars, you’ll learn to thrive in team environments, prepared for collaborative professional settings

  • Quantity Surveying Practice I (15 credits)

    Throughout this module, you will embark on a journey to grasp the fundamental principles that underpin building measurement, equipping you with the knowledge and capabilities needed to effectively quantify building works. A strong emphasis is placed on the Rules of Measurement. You will learn how to navigate project documents, including drawings and related materials, to execute precise measurements of building quantities. 

    By the conclusion of this module, you will have cultivated a profound understanding of measurement principles, a mastery of the standard method of measurement, and a practical ability to perform building quantity measurements effectively. 
     

  • Introduction to Building Services (15 credits)

    In this module, you will acquire the knowledge and skills needed to effectively collaborate with professionals from various disciplines specialising in building services, from design and supply to installation and commissioning. You will delve into the underlying scientific principles and calculation methodologies essential for understanding how to minimise fuel and power consumption. A core focus of this module is sustainability, emphasising renewable systems for achieving low or zero carbon footprints and energy-efficient solutions. 

    By the end of the module, you will understand the vital role of building services in cost management and project delivery, emphasising the importance of collaboration and coordination with specialists.
     

  • Building Design and Construction 2 (15 credits)


    Take your understanding of building design and construction to the next level in this advanced module. Explore the construction of more sophisticated buildings found in larger residential, commercial, and public settings. Dive into the collaborative process of developing sustainable complex buildings, utilising innovative building materials, design details, and construction techniques. This module will also emphasise the interaction between statutory regulations, compliance frameworks, and the design process. Moreover, you will explore inclusive and sustainable environments in the context of larger-scale building design, addressing the diverse needs of users and promoting environmental responsibility.
     
    This module expands your expertise, equipping you with advanced principles and skills necessary for the design and construction of complex, sustainable buildings. 

Year 2

Compulsory modules

  • Design and Administration (15 credits)

    This module aims to equip you with a deep understanding of the design process and effective contract administration. Throughout the module, you will explore various stages of the design process, interpret client requirements, and assess the impact of statutory regulations on building design. By evaluating different methods of specifying building works and comprehending the tender process, you will develop practical skills directly applicable to the industry. Additionally, you will gain insights into the roles and responsibilities of the contract administrator, the ethical considerations surrounding contract administration, and the duties of the certifier.
     
    Overall, the "Design and Administration" module offers a holistic learning experience that will empower you with a diverse skill set, critical knowledge, and practical experience necessary to excel in the design and administration aspects of the construction industry, setting you on a path towards a successful career.

  • Construction Technology I (15 credits)


    In this module, you’ll develop your knowledge and skills in land surveying, construction techniques and material technology. Emphasis will be placed on setting out building structures, which will be reinforced via practical sessions every week.  Collaborative work is an essential component of this module. You will participate in group practical exercises, allowing you to enhance your teamwork skills. Moreover, you will engage in individual problem-solving tasks, further developing your analytical and critical thinking abilities.

    By the end of this module, you will have a solid understanding of land surveying principles, the ability to execute setting-out operations, and knowledge of construction materials and their properties. Additionally, your information handling abilities, research proficiency, and analytical thinking will be advanced, enabling you to excel in the field of construction technology.


     

  • Construction Practice and Procedure (15 credits)

    In the Construction Contract Management module, you will acquire comprehensive knowledge and skills to effectively manage contracts in the construction industry. You will focus on post-contract activities, including payment valuation, claims evaluation, and variation assessment. The module also emphasises the significance of complying with construction regulations and ensures your readiness for the industrial placement year.

    Upon successful completion of this module, you will possess the necessary expertise to effectively manage construction contracts, navigate regulatory requirements, and ensure professional and ethical practices in contract administration.

  • Integrative Project II (15 credits)

    This module is designed to offer you a unique opportunity to apply and synthesise the knowledge and skills you've acquired from both basic and advanced modules, as well as other relevant sources. This application takes place within the context of a large-scale development proposal situated on an active urban development site. 

    In this module, you will work collaboratively in teams to craft a sustainable project proposal. This proposal will be presented through a slide presentation and a comprehensive report. Your project will demand the integration of multidisciplinary knowledge, requiring you to delve deeply into diverse approaches to project development and critical evaluation. Additionally, you will create a Building Information Modeling (BIM) model linked to a project program for a specific building within the broader development presented in your report.
     

  • Construction Technology II (15 credits)


    In this module, you will delve into the intricacies of structural design, analysis, and on-site construction processes. Building upon your previous studies, this module aims to equip you with a deeper understanding of construction technology, preparing you for your upcoming industrial placement and paving the way for further advanced studies.

    Upon successful completion of this module, you will be able to critically analyse structural design and the behaviour of various building materials/components, as well as apply the core principles of structural mechanics. Overall, you will have gained a comprehensive understanding of the systematic nature of the building process, giving due consideration to regulatory, health and safety, and sustainability requirements. 

  • Construction Procurement and Law (15 credits)


    This module offers comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the procurement processes, contract forms, and legal aspects involved in the construction industry. You will explore various tendering procedures, contractual relationships, and relevant laws, including the implications of the Disability Discrimination Act. Developing legal reasoning skills, you will learn to apply legal principles to construction-related problems and conduct research using appropriate legal sources. The module emphasises best practice procurement, collaboration, and partnering approaches. 

    By the end of this module, you will possess a solid understanding of construction procurement processes, legal considerations, and contract administration. You will be equipped to apply legal reasoning, evaluate procurement methods, and communicate effectively in a construction context.

  • Construction CIT 2 (15 credits)

  • Construction Communication and Information Technology II

    Building upon the foundation laid in prerequisite modules, this module focuses on the multidimensional representation of building information, supporting diverse construction applications across project teams. You will expand your knowledge and skills in the utilisation of BIM systems to enhance construction project delivery. Additionally, you’ll explore the interrelationships between information from various sources and learn to employ industry standards and protocols for effective information management. Through comparative analysis, you will select and evaluate alternative BIM systems, determining their suitability for specific project requirements. By applying advanced BIM design techniques, you will generate and control project information, ensuring accuracy and consistency. Furthermore, you will develop proficiency in organising and managing project details, fostering effective collaboration among project stakeholders.
     

Optional modules

Quantity Surveying Practice II (15 credits)

Construction Project Management (15 credits)

This module focuses on the crucial role of a Project Manager in ensuring the successful delivery of construction projects. You will learn about project management theories, stakeholder management, and leadership approaches to motivate project teams. The module delves into supporting processes that facilitate efficient project delivery. It emphasises project planning, risk management (including Health and Safety), and the effective management of project information. You will develop skills in developing project schedules using appropriate software and understanding critical path analysis. The module also covers the identification and management of key project risks through the compilation of project risk registers.

By the end of this module, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the role of a Project Manager in construction projects. 

Building Pathology and Inspection (15 credits)


Embark on a comprehensive exploration of building defects and interventions in this intermediate module. Discover the underlying principles of building performance, materials science, and the maintenance of buildings. Gain a holistic understanding of defects, their causes, and the selection of appropriate repair strategies. Throughout this module, you will delve into the physical properties of building materials and explore mechanisms of failure and decay. By studying real-world case studies and practical examples, you will develop skills in safe survey methods, data collection, and diagnosis of defects. Gain proficiency in utilising specialised surveying equipment and non-destructive techniques.
 
Upon completion, you will possess a deep understanding of building performance requirements, the diagnosis of defects, and the formulation of remediation proposals. 

Languages modules (optional)

Year 3 (placement year)

Compulsory modules

  • Compulsory Work Placement Year

    The compulsory work placement, taken in Year 3, provides a valuable learning experience and is an important part of the course, consolidating your knowledge and preparing you for your final-year studies. During this year you will work in the construction industry for a minimum of 36 weeks. Oxford Brookes has strong links with a variety of construction-based employers ranging from local house-builders to international construction companies. Hence work experience opportunities are broad; from managing the restoration of a country manor house to the commercial and project management of a multi-million-pound city office development. If you are a part-time student working in the industry in a suitable capacity, you will be exempt from industrial placement.

Year 4

Compulsory modules

  • Project Financial Control (15 credits)

  • Advanced Procurement and Dispute Resolution (15 credits)


    Procurement is an essential component of the construction industry and this module is designed to provide you with an enhanced understanding of procurement routes, various forms of litigation and key conflict avoidance practices. The module takes a dynamic approach to learning, giving you an opportunity to conduct independent research alongside group projects that require collaborative problem solving. A mock construction adjudication setting will be used to facilitate an in-depth exploration of core concepts.

    By the end of this module, you will demonstrate a solid understanding of how the procurement process works as well as how disputes can be minimised. This module will develop your ability to work collaboratively alongside other soft skills like critical thinking, academic presentation and research literacy.

  • Financial Appraisal and Commercial Management (double) (30 credits)

  • Commercial Management Dissertation (double) (30 credits)

    In this module, you will undertake an extensive research study focusing on the commercial, cost, legal, or contractual aspects of the building and construction sectors. With the guidance of a dedicated dissertation tutor, you will independently explore an industry or literature-based research topic. Throughout this module, you will critically review existing research and authoritative sources to identify knowledge gaps in your chosen area. You will learn and apply relevant research methods to investigate construction-related phenomena effectively. With an emphasis on independent thinking, critical evaluation, and logical reasoning, you will set personal objectives, conduct research, and present your findings in a professionally written report that adheres to high standards.

  • Facilities Maintenance and Management (15 credits)

    This module delves into the management of buildings and facilities for organisations where real estate is not their core function, such as offices, hospitals, airports, and universities. With a focus on Facilities Management (FM), the module aims to familiarise students with the key aspects of this role and its impact on supporting core business operations.

    By the end of this module, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the various roles and responsibilities of estates and facilities managers throughout the entire life cycle of a built asset, including building surveying, project management, and compliance management. You will learn to analyse and formulate organisational frameworks for delivering FM services, exploring both in-house and outsourced procurement strategies
     

Optional modules

Innovation in Management and Technology (15 credits)

In this module, you will learn about vital technological systems that affect the construction sector as a whole. This module offers an in-depth exploration of key factors in the building industry like global climate change and Building Information Modelling  (BIM) and aims to provide an understanding of how new technologies and innovations are brought about. Emphasis is placed on the evaluation of modern management systems and techniques as well as how to plan ahead using avant-garde business models. 

By the end of this module, you will gain an advanced understanding of a variety of business management and strategic tools and techniques. You’ll also be able to critically assess the productivity, efficiency and overall effect of new innovations within the industry.
 

Building Pathology and Inspection studies (15 credits)

This module aims to provide you with a holistic understanding of construction technology, materials and the processes involved in construction management. Key areas covered by the module include building performance, the various properties held by building materials, both in isolation and composites, as well as the mechanisms of building failure and decay. This module exploys a multifaceted approach that will give you a theoretical and practical education in building pathology. 

By the end of this module, you will be able to critically evaluate the functions of buildings, their purpose and the state of decay/defect present within a building. You will also be able to recommend solutions/strategies for remediation and aftercare.
 

Project Management Studies (15 credits)

Successful project delivery depends significantly on the competence of the Project Manager and the efficiency of project management processes. This module aims to introduce you to key project management knowledge areas and prepare you to handle the multi-organisational and temporary nature of construction projects, as well as the complexities of the external project environment. Beginning with an overview of project management and leadership theories, this module explores various techniques for motivating project teams and managing project stakeholders effectively. 

By the end of this module, you will have developed a deep understanding of project management, considering various topics within established project management frameworks and standards. You will be capable of managing stakeholders in a way that aligns with their requirements and ensures both stakeholder satisfaction and project objectives are met. 
 

Please note: As our courses are reviewed regularly as part of our quality assurance framework, the modules you can choose from may vary from those shown here. The structure of the course may also mean some modules are not available to you.

Careers

The course is accredited, so you’ll be well on your way towards chartered status when you finish. Of course, being a chartered surveyor isn’t your only option. You’ll have a wide range of skills suitable for roles across the construction industry and beyond.

With the modules being shared across our building degrees, you’ll already have knowledge of construction project management and building surveying. You’ll find you can switch careers without much disruption. This understanding of different roles is just one of the reasons we think employers value Oxford Brookes graduates.

Past students are working on private, public and commercial projects around the world. Recent examples include:

  • AECOM
  • Balfour Beatty
  • CBRE
  • Crossrail
  • Gardiner & Theobald
  • Morgan Sindall
  • Ridge and Partners
  • Taylor Wimpey
  • Turner & Townsend
  • TfL.

Entry requirements

Wherever possible we make our conditional offers using the UCAS Tariff. The combination of A-level grades listed here would be just one way of achieving the UCAS Tariff points for this course.

Standard offer

UCAS Tariff Points: 112

A Level: BBC

IB Points: 30

BTEC: DMM

Contextual offer

What is a contextual offer?

UCAS Tariff Points: 88

A Level: CCD

IB Points: 27

BTEC: MMM

Further offer details

We welcome applications from candidates with alternative qualifications, and from mature students.

International qualifications and equivalences

How to apply

Application process


Full time Home (UK) applicants
Apply through UCAS


Part time Home (UK) applicants
Apply direct to the University


International applicants
Apply direct to the University

Full time international applicants can also apply through UCAS

Tuition fees

Please see the fees note
Home (UK) full time
£9,250
Home (UK) part time
£1,155 per single module
Home (UK) sandwich (placement)
£1,500
International full time
£15,200
International sandwich (placement)
£1,500
Home (UK) full time
£9,250
Home (UK) part time
£1,155 per single module
Home (UK) sandwich (placement)
£1,600
International full time
£15,950
International sandwich (placement)
£1,600

Questions about fees?

Contact Student Finance on:

financefees@brookes.ac.uk

Tuition fees

2023 / 24
Home (UK) full time
£9,250
Home (UK) part time
£1,155 per single module
Home (UK) sandwich (placement)
£1,500
International full time
£15,200
International sandwich (placement)
£1,500
2024 / 25
Home (UK) full time
£9,250
Home (UK) part time
£1,155 per single module
Home (UK) sandwich (placement)
£1,600
International full time
£15,950
International sandwich (placement)
£1,600

Questions about fees?

Contact Student Finance on:

+44 (0)1865 534400

financefees@brookes.ac.uk

Please note, tuition fees for Home students may increase in subsequent years both for new and continuing students in line with an inflationary amount determined by government. Oxford Brookes University intends to maintain its fees for new and returning Home students at the maximum permitted level.

Tuition fees for International students may increase in subsequent years both for new and continuing students. 

The following factors will be taken into account by the University when it is setting the annual fees: inflationary measures such as the retail price indices, projected increases in University costs, changes in the level of funding received from Government sources, admissions statistics and access considerations including the availability of student support. 

How and when to pay

Tuition fee instalments for the semester are due by the Monday of week 1 of each semester. Students are not liable for full fees for that semester if they leave before week 4. If the leaving date is after week 4, full fees for the semester are payable.

  • For information on payment methods please see our Make a Payment page.
  • For information about refunds please visit our Refund policy page

Additional costs

Please be aware that some courses will involve some additional costs that are not covered by your fees. Specific additional costs for this course are detailed below.

Funding your studies

Financial support and scholarships

Featured funding opportunities available for this course.

Oxford Brookes Bursary for home students Undergraduate maintenance loans for part-time UK students Undergraduate maintenance loans for full-time UK students Undergraduate tuition fee loans for UK students

All financial support and scholarships

View all funding opportunities for this course

Information from Discover Uni

Full-time study

Part-time study

Programme changes:
On rare occasions we may need to make changes to our course programmes after they have been published on the website. For more information, please visit our changes to programmes page.