Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management (with Foundation Year)

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. 

Optional modules

• Economics of Built Environment

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)

  The aim of this module is to develop knowledge and skills in the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) systems used for the improvement of construction project delivery. The module builds on knowledge gained from the use of various software applications, including 2D CAD, in pre-requisite modules. It advances knowledge on n-dimensional building information representation to support various construction applications required in the project by different project teams.

• Quantity Surveying Practice II (15 credits)

  The module further develops students’ core quantity surveying skills acquired by completing the previous module CONM4005 Quantity Surveying Practice I. In this module, students will extend their knowledge of the RICS new rules of measurement for building works (NRM2) and also learn the principles for measuring building services. Students will also learn the principles for measuring civil works such as piling using the ICE civil engineering standard method of measurement (CESMM4) and recognised good practice. This module also aims to introduce the principles and methodology for construction costs estimation for a range of construction-related operations and carry that on into tender preparation, analysis, reporting and decision making.
  
  In addition, students will learn how digital 2D drawn information and 3D Building Information Models (BIM) are used to generate building quantities and the principles of model-based conceptual take-off of quantities from 3D BIM.

• Building Science and Environmental Systems

• 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

• Languages modules (optional)

• 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. 

Optional Placement Year

Compulsory modules

• 36 Week Industrial Placement Experience

• 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.

Final Year

Compulsory modules

• Project Financial Control (15 credits)

  Finance is the lifeblood of any business. Businesses in property development and constructions are no exceptions. Effective cost and resource management during the design stage holds the key to achieve the best value of client’s investments. This module aims to develop student’s knowledge and skills required to plan and monitor the finance of commercial development. Students will also learn to identify and assess project financial risks with the use of advanced methods.

• 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)

  This module focuses on commercial management from the perspectives of both running a construction company and appraising the sustainable development potential of a site. Students analyse the impact of business, commercial, marketing and financial factors in these two areas, and make strategic decisions accordingly. The first part of the module is facilitated through a simulation exercise where teams of students run a construction company. They develop strategic management skills and an understanding of the interdependence of various managerial decisions. In the second part, the students apply the knowledge and skills they developed through the simulation exercise to appraising the financial and commercial potential of sustainably developing a site. The principles of strategic management, commercial planning, financial appraisal and risk assessment are applied throughout the module.

• 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 and Maintenance 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

• 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. 
   

• 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.
   

• Choose from the modules listed in Year 2.

• Quantity Surveying Studies (15 credits)

  This module is designed to build upon your foundational quantity surveying skills acquired in previous modules. Throughout this module, you will expand your expertise by delving deeper into the principles of the RICS new rules of measurement for building works (NRM2), with a particular focus on measuring drainage, mechanical, and electrical services in building projects. In response to contemporary industry demands, the module will equip you with knowledge of how Building Information Modelling (BIM) is applied to generate building quantities. 

  By the end of this module, you will be proficient in assessing different tendering methods in construction, measuring quantities for both building and civil engineering projects, estimating and analysing building unit rates, and utilising various sources of cost information.
   

• Independent Study (15 credits)