Redefining career paths: How LSBU’s MSc Building Surveying opened new doors
After a successful first career in financial services and marketing, Andrew Paul was ready for a fresh challenge... one that combined analytical thinking with real-world impact. Choosing to retrain as a Building Surveyor, he found LSBU’s Building Surveying MSc course to be the perfect bridge into the built environment. With a practical, industry-led curriculum and supportive lecturers, LSBU equipped him with the confidence and knowledge to launch a new career. He's now working as a Graduate Building Surveyor at Hollis and pursuing RICS chartership.
What did you study at LSBU, and why did you choose your subject?
I studied building surveying as a non-cognate full-time student at MSc level. After a first career in financial services and marketing, I wanted a fresh challenge and determined surveying would be a great fit based on my interests and transferable skills.
Why did you choose LSBU over other universities?
I chose LSBU because its curriculum is broad and is well regarded by employers in the real estate and construction sectors.
Postgraduate study equips you with practical knowledge and up-to-date industry insights
What would you say are the main benefits of studying at postgraduate level?
Being able to approach a new subject with a more focused sense of purpose and perspective. It also equips you with practical knowledge and up-to-date industry insights and gives you the opportunity to mix and collaborate with a diverse group of likeminded peers.
What have been your favourite aspects of studying here?
Great lecturers and engaging course mates. The building surveying project module deserves a special mention as it provided an excellent and practical introduction to some of core knowledge, tasks, and skills required to be a surveyor, and insights into the RICS APC pathway to becoming chartered – it was challenging, but worthwhile!
The course's focus on recent hot topics has given me a comprehensive understanding of both the current challenges and foundational principles in building surveying
What is your current focus?
I’ve recently joined Hollis as a graduate building surveyor, and I’m currently undertaking the RICS APC to become chartered.
How do you feel your time at LSBU is preparing you for your future career?
The course’s focus on recent hot topics, such as the impacts of the Building Safety Act, fire safety and cladding remediation, sustainability, and building control, alongside essential matters like Land Law, the Party Wall Act, and building pathology, has given me a comprehensive understanding of both the current challenges and foundational principles in building surveying.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in your field?
Be curious, ask lots of questions, and get yourself involved in a broad range of surveying activities as quickly as you can!