Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

The programme blends core surveying science and construction technology with modules on inspection, diagnosis and management of buildings. Early modules introduce construction technology, building materials and structural principles, plus measurement and drawing skills. You will study building pathology and condition surveying to learn how to identify defects, assess decay and recommend repair strategies.

• Construction technology and materials – behaviour and performance of traditional and modern building materials.
• Condition and defect diagnosis – systematic inspection methods, moisture investigation and remedial specification.
• Measurement and costing – taking off quantities, preparing bills of quantities and cost estimating.
• Law, procurement and contract administration – construction law principles, forms of contract and procurement routes.
• Building conservation and retrofit – principles of conservation, heritage practice and energy-efficiency upgrades.
• Surveying practice and professional standards – ethics, report writing, client care and use of industry-standard software including basic BIM applications.
• Project work and research project – applied projects and a substantial final-year dissertation or design-and-survey project.

The course typically includes practical laboratory sessions, site visits and opportunities for work-based learning. Many students undertake a work placement or a year in industry where available, and fieldwork is used extensively to develop real-world inspection and reporting skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a UK secondary qualification equivalent to university entry (A-levels, BTEC or equivalent). Typical applicants have studied at least one relevant subject such as maths, physics, design & technology or a built-environment vocational qualification, but candidates from broader backgrounds with demonstrable interest and experience in construction are also considered. Mature applicants with relevant work experience or a suitable HND/HNC/foundation degree in a construction-related discipline are welcome.

All applicants will be expected to demonstrate numeracy and communication skills. GCSE passes (or equivalent) in English and mathematics are commonly required. Selection may include consideration of a personal statement, references and, where appropriate, an interview or portfolio of practical work.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles across property, construction and public sector organisations. Typical career paths include:

• Building surveyor or assistant surveyor undertaking condition surveys, defect diagnosis and remedial specifications.
• Project or site co-ordinator involved in refurbishment, conservation or planned maintenance projects.
• Contract administrator, quantity surveying assistant or commercial manager roles in construction firms.
• Specialist inspector roles such as conservation officer, domestic energy assessor or insurance surveyor.
• Facilities and estate management positions within public bodies, universities or private organisations.

If the programme has professional accreditation, graduates are able to progress to professional membership routes (for example towards chartered status) through a period of structured professional experience and assessment. The degree also provides a foundation for postgraduate study in surveying, construction management or conservation.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes has an established built environment provision with industry-focused teaching and strong links to local and regional employers. The university emphasises practical learning: the course uses workshops, laboratories and fieldwork to build hands-on surveying competence alongside theoretical understanding.

Students benefit from access to professional networks, guest lectures from practitioners and support for placements and employability. Situated in and around Oxford, the university provides a range of opportunities for site visits to heritage buildings, contemporary construction projects and local authority housing stock, helping to bridge academic study and real-world surveying practice.

The department also offers tailored student support for research projects, access to specialist equipment and software used in industry, and careers guidance to help graduates move into the surveying and built-environment professions.