BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management with Placement year

The BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management with Placement Year program at the University of South Wales (USW) offers students a comprehensive education in quantity surveying principles, commercial management practices, and construction economics, supplemented with valuable industry experience through a placement year. Located in Cardiff and Newport, UK, USW is renowned for its commitment to excellence in engineering and construction education.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management with Placement Year program covers essential topics for quantity surveyors and commercial managers. Students study modules on construction technology, measurement and estimating, contract administration, project management, and financial management. Additionally, they learn about construction law, procurement strategies, risk management, and sustainable construction practices. The placement year provides students with an opportunity to apply their learning in a professional setting, gain practical experience, and develop industry-relevant skills.

Research Focus: USW emphasizes the importance of research in the BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management with Placement Year program. Students have the opportunity to engage in research projects exploring topics such as construction cost management, value engineering, dispute resolution, and emerging trends in construction economics. Research-focused modules enhance students' analytical abilities, critical thinking skills, and understanding of industry best practices, preparing them to address complex challenges in quantity surveying and commercial management.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a key component of the BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management with Placement Year program at USW. The university collaborates with construction companies, consultancy firms, and industry organizations to provide students with placement opportunities. During the placement year, students gain hands-on experience, work on real-world projects, and develop professional networks within the construction industry. Industry input into the curriculum ensures that students graduate with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience required to succeed in the field of quantity surveying and commercial management.

Global Perspective: While the program primarily focuses on quantity surveying practices within the UK, USW recognizes the importance of a global perspective in the construction industry. Modules within the program may include discussions on international construction standards, cross-border contracts, and global trends in commercial management. Students may have the opportunity to undertake international placements or research projects, gaining exposure to different construction practices, regulatory frameworks, and cultural considerations in quantity surveying and commercial management on a global scale.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements:

Academic Requirements: International students applying for undergraduate programs at University of South Wales should have completed their secondary education with a minimum of 65% or above in their respective national qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum score of 72, with a minimum of 17 in each component.
• PTE Academic: A minimum score of 64, with no component below 59.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of South Wales offers several scholarships and financial support opportunities to both domestic and international students. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, support students from underrepresented backgrounds, and assist those who may face financial barriers in pursuing their education. 

Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship: This scholarship is available for international students applying for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. It offers a significant reduction in tuition fees.

International Merit Scholarship: This scholarship is open to international students and provides a reduction in tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs based on academic merit.

Academic Achievement Scholarship: This scholarship is available for full-time undergraduate students who have achieved excellent academic results. It offers a reduction in tuition fees.

South Wales Business School Scholarships: The Business School offers a range of scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate students pursuing business-related programs. These scholarships may provide financial assistance or work placements.

Sports Scholarships: The university offers sports scholarships to support talented athletes in their academic and sporting pursuits. These scholarships may include financial support, access to training facilities, and mentoring.

Alumni Discount: The University of South Wales provides a discount on tuition fees for eligible alumni who wish to pursue further studies at the university.

Country-Specific Scholarships: The university may offer scholarships specifically targeted at students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships aim to promote diversity and internationalization.

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management with Placement Year program at the University of South Wales (USW) have a plethora of career opportunities available to them in the construction industry and related fields.

Quantity Surveyor: A primary career path for graduates is becoming a quantity surveyor. Quantity surveyors play a pivotal role in managing construction costs and contracts. They are responsible for preparing estimates, conducting cost analysis, managing tender processes, and negotiating contracts with suppliers and subcontractors. Quantity surveyors work for construction companies, consultancy firms, government agencies, and real estate developers, ensuring that construction projects are delivered within budget and financial constraints.

Commercial Manager: Graduates may also pursue careers as commercial managers. Commercial managers oversee the financial and contractual aspects of construction projects. They manage project budgets, monitor costs, assess commercial risks, and ensure compliance with contractual obligations. Commercial managers work closely with project managers, quantity surveyors, and legal teams to optimize project profitability and mitigate commercial risks. They may work for construction companies, engineering firms, or client organizations, overseeing multiple projects and portfolios.

Contract Administrator: Another career option is becoming a contract administrator. Contract administrators manage contracts and legal agreements throughout the construction process. They draft contract documents, administer contract changes and variations, resolve disputes, and ensure compliance with contract terms and conditions. Contract administrators work for construction companies, government agencies, and client organizations, ensuring that contractual obligations are met and disputes are resolved in a timely and cost-effective manner.

Project Manager: With experience, graduates may transition into roles as project managers. Project managers oversee all aspects of construction projects, including planning, scheduling, budgeting, and coordination of resources. They manage project teams, communicate with stakeholders, and ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. Project managers work for construction companies, consultancy firms, and client organizations, leading diverse teams and delivering successful construction projects across various sectors.

Construction Cost Consultant: Graduates may also pursue careers as construction cost consultants. Cost consultants provide expert advice on construction costs and financial matters. They prepare cost estimates, conduct cost planning and analysis, assess value engineering options, and advise clients on cost-saving strategies. Cost consultants work for construction companies, quantity surveying firms, and client organizations, helping to optimize project costs and maximize value for money throughout the construction process.