BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management program at London Metropolitan University is tailored to equip students with the expertise needed for a successful career in the construction and built environment sector. Recognizing the increasing demand for professionals who can effectively manage the financial and contractual aspects of construction projects, the program provides a comprehensive understanding of both the technical and commercial sides of the industry. It aims to produce graduates who are well-versed in both traditional and contemporary methods of project cost evaluation and control, capable of guiding projects through their entire financial lifecycle from inception to completion. For students who may not initially meet the direct entry requirements for the three-year degree, the university offers a four-year option which includes a foundation year (Year 0). This initial year focuses on developing essential academic and study skills, alongside foundational knowledge within a built environment context, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the subsequent years of the honors degree.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management program is designed to provide a progressive learning experience. In the initial years, students typically cover fundamental principles of the built environment, including construction technology and building services, materials science, and the basics of design, procurement, and management. As the course progresses, the modules become more specialized, focusing on core quantity surveying and commercial management skills. These include estimating and measurement practice, project management and contract administration, and the understanding of legal and contractual frameworks within the construction industry. Later in the program, students delve into more advanced topics such as development, finance, and risk management in the built environment, sustainable construction practices, and the application of big data and technology in the industry. The curriculum often culminates in a final-year applied research project, allowing students to investigate a specific area of interest in depth and demonstrate their acquired knowledge and research skills.

Research Focus: The research focus within the BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management program is strongly aligned with the practical needs of the construction industry. While the program is an undergraduate one, it encourages students to develop analytical and critical thinking skills through research-oriented tasks. Modules often involve case studies, data analysis, and the evaluation of different construction methodologies and their cost implications. The final-year applied research project provides a structured opportunity for students to conduct independent research, often addressing real-world problems or exploring innovative approaches within the field of quantity surveying and commercial management. This research component allows students to gain a deeper understanding of a specific topic, develop their research skills, and produce work that can potentially contribute to the knowledge base of the industry.

Industry Engagement: London Metropolitan University places a strong emphasis on industry engagement in its Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management program. The program is designed in consultation with leading academics and practitioners in the field, ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant to the current needs of the industry. Students have the opportunity to learn from industry professionals through guest lectures, seminars, and potential site visits to real construction projects. The university also maintains strong relationships with various employers in the built environment sector, which can potentially lead to work experience or placement opportunities for students. While placements are not always guaranteed, the program often includes modules that encourage students to gain practical experience. This focus on industry engagement provides students with valuable networking opportunities and a better understanding of the professional world they will enter upon graduation. Furthermore, the program often utilizes industry-standard software and technologies, enhancing students' practical skills and employability.

Global Perspective: The BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management program at London Metropolitan University incorporates a global perspective, recognizing the increasingly international nature of the construction industry. The curriculum may include a focus on international construction markets, global procurement strategies, and the management of international construction projects. Students are often exposed to diverse case studies from around the world, allowing them to compare different approaches to quantity surveying and commercial management in various cultural and economic contexts. The university's diverse student body also contributes to this global outlook, providing opportunities for students to collaborate with peers from different backgrounds and gain a broader understanding of the global built environment. By providing this international perspective, the program prepares graduates for potential careers in the global construction industry, where an understanding of international practices and regulations is becoming increasingly important.