Building Surveying

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 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.

• 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.
   
  
   

• 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 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.

• Construction Technology 2 (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 Communication and Information Technology II (15 credits)

  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.

Year 3 (placement year)

Compulsory modules

• 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. 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

• Building Surveying Dissertation (Double) (30 credits)

  In this module, you will embark on a transformative research journey that enables you to delve into the diverse fields of building surveying. Engaging in original research, you will learn to think independently and critically, employing a logical approach to navigate the challenges of your research journey. The module will nurture your research capabilities, equipping you with the necessary tools to collect, analyse, and interpret data to address your research question effectively.

  By the end of this module, you will acquire a range of invaluable skills and knowledge. You will master the art of presenting and communicating your ideas effectively, honing your ability to articulate complex research findings with clarity and confidence. By undertaking a critical review of existing research and authoritative sources, you will identify gaps in knowledge, allowing you to contribute to the growth of the building surveying field. 

• Building Surveying Law (15 credits)

  Immerse yourself in the realm of Building Surveying Law and gain comprehensive knowledge essential for building surveyors. Explore the intricate aspects of landlord and tenant law, delving into the legal framework of leases, dilapidations, and associated licences. Develop a strong foundation in land law, enabling you to navigate legal, economic, and practical considerations in the field. Throughout this module, you will analyse the complexities of development projects, including planning law, environmental concerns, and land rights. Gain the skills to assess and apply legal knowledge in diverse scenarios, considering multiple stakeholders' interests. Engage in sessions that foster professional ethics and an understanding of the building surveying professional's legal and ethical landscape.

• Advanced Building Surveying Practice (15 credits)

  In this module, you’ll have the opportunity to further develop core skills to reinvent buildings by enhancing your ability to identify, critically assess and solve building surveying issues. You’ll also consider the scope and format of building insurance documentation, perform building cost assessments and incorporate a variety of key building surveying practices into written reports and presentations.

  By the end of this module, you’ll build a strong competency in the world of building surveying, gaining knowledge of inspection techniques for residential and commercial properties as well as a critical appreciation of the regulatory requirements of the field. The module’s pragmatic approach will help you apply theoretical ideas to real-world problems, preparing you for a successful career in building surveying. 

• Conservation and Restoration (15 credits)

  In this module, you will explore the unique requirements of historic buildings and structures, discovering the factors that influence their performance and continued use. Beginning with an examination of conservation movements' history, you will delve into conservation philosophy, legal frameworks, and terminology used in practice. Through case studies, site visits, and architectural history study, you will develop proficiency in identifying materials, construction periods, and typical defects associated with different building types. Throughout the module, you will conduct independent research, engage in directed fieldwork, and effectively communicate your knowledge through formal presentations. Additionally, you will gain insights into traditional building materials and techniques, such as timber and masonry, and understand the importance of "breathing" buildings through the lime cycle.
   

• 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.
   

• Facilities and 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
   

• 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. 
   

Optional modules