City

What you'll study

The programme combines core construction science, building pathology and professional practice with hands-on surveying, measurement and digital skills. Early stages cover construction technology, materials science, measurement and technical drawing, plus the legal and contractual framework that governs building work. Later years progress to condition surveying, building defects diagnosis, specifications, repair techniques and refurbishment design, together with project management and sustainability in building work.

• Construction technology and materials
• Measured surveying, building measurement and CAD/BIM workflows
• Building pathology and diagnostics (identifying and recording defects)
• Repair design, conservation and retrofit for energy efficiency
• Contract administration, construction law and procurement
• Project and asset management, lifecycle costing and maintenance strategies
• Professional practice, ethics and business skills for surveyors
• Research project or dissertation focused on practical surveying problems

Teaching mixes lectures and seminars with laboratory classes, on-site practicals, field surveys and industry-linked projects. Students gain experience with industry-standard measurement methods, condition-report formats, digital surveying tools (e.g. laser scanning, point cloud processing) and specification writing. There is often the option to take a placement year or short-term industry placements to apply skills in a professional setting.

Entry requirements

Entry is typically based on successful completion of secondary education or an equivalent qualification. Offers commonly reflect achievement in a range of academic A-levels, BTEC Nationals or equivalent vocational qualifications. Applicants should demonstrate competence in numeracy and acceptable standards in English; GCSEs or equivalents in English and mathematics are normally expected.

Typical entry information includes:

• A-levels, BTECs or equivalent qualifications (offers vary by year and applicant profile)
• GCSEs: English and mathematics at a recognised pass level
• Non‑standard applicants and mature students with relevant work experience are considered
• International students should meet recognised English language requirements and provide equivalent academic transcripts

Applicants are encouraged to include a personal statement demonstrating interest in building conservation, construction technology or surveying, and any relevant work experience or practical skills.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles across the construction, property and heritage sectors. Common career paths include building surveyor, conservation and heritage surveyor, condition surveyor, project or contract manager, facilities and asset manager, and technical consultant. With experience and professional assessment, graduates can progress towards chartered status with professional bodies and take on senior consultancy or management positions.

• Private surveying and engineering consultancies
• Local authorities and public sector estate teams
• Heritage organisations and conservation bodies
• Main contractors and specialist remedial contractors
• Facilities and asset management companies
• Further study or conversion to related postgraduate qualifications

Why study at City

Studying Building Surveying at City places you in an urban setting with close proximity to major practice and consultancy employers, offering frequent industry engagement and guest lectures. The programme emphasises employability through practical surveying labs, fieldwork, digital measurement facilities and opportunities for placements or live projects.

City's links with local and national industry, combined with careers support and professional development activities, help students build the contacts and competencies needed for a technical surveying career. The curriculum is designed to align with professional expectations, preparing graduates for further professional assessment and career progression in the built environment.