Building Surveying (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons)

History: we’ve been educating building professionals for over 100 years – and have strong industry connections. Our students have secured graduate roles at companies including Atkins, GD Surveyors and Haringey Council.

Graduate surveyor level is an excellent foundation for then progressing to chartered status through RICS-approved APC training.

Flexible study: study full-time or part-time one day a week.

Overview
Course Content
Teaching and Assessment
Careers
Entry Requirements
Apply
Fees

Overview

The foundation of your future

There’s more than one way into a building surveying career. If you don’t meet the entry requirements for a degree course, but have the experience, maturity and determination to work in the sector, then this course is for you.

This foundation year isn’t a freestanding degree - but it’s the perfect preparation for one. Think of it as the first year in a four-year period of studying that will lead to a Building Surveying undergraduate degree programme at LSBU (upon successful completion of the foundation year).

Front of apartment block under construction

Course Content

What will I learn?

With a broad construction curriculum, this course will help to develop the skills and expertise to feel confident working within the building surveying industry. We’ll cover: construction technology; project management; law; economics; asset management; management and practice skills; and inspection, repair and maintenance. You can choose to take an optional year in industry in your third year.

This module introduces students to sustainability and environmental impact through a multidisciplinary lens, spanning computing, electronics, and the built environment. Working in teams, students investigate a real-world societal challenge, apply core scientific and technical principles, and produce a group video or presentation and an individual one-page visual summary of their proposed solution. The module encourages collaboration, practical measurement, and sustainable thinking across disciplines. Assessment method: 100% coursework

This module introduces design thinking. Students work through studio and workshop-based learning to explore spatial, cultural, and environmental ideas. Core skills include drawing, model making, and digital tools for visual communication. The module fosters conceptual creativity, critical analysis, and awareness of context, building a foundation for design-led study. Assessment method: 100% coursework

This module develops academic writing, research, and safe workshop practice alongside numeracy and communication. Students work independently and in teams, apply the scientific method, and use digital tools to complete practical and written tasks. The module also supports personal development planning and successful transition into higher education. Assessment method: 100% coursework

Students develop hands-on skills in working with data drawn from real-world sources such as engineering sensors, web platforms, and building systems. Through spreadsheets, basic coding, and visualisation tools, students learn to analyse data, build simple models, and present evidence-based findings. The module fosters critical thinking and responsible use of data. Assessment method: 100% coursework

Students explore the principles of project management and how to organise, plan, and lead projects in construction, engineering, and technology. They learn to apply tools such as Gantt charts and risk registers and work collaboratively on project-based tasks. The module supports development of professional behaviours and decision-making skills. Assessment method: 100% coursework

This module uses fast-paced “sprints” to immerses students in authentic engineering design problem-solving through intensive practical projects. Students will tackle real-world scenarios, fostering practical skills and theoretical understanding. Indicative content woven into these projects includes chemistry fundamentals, materials science (manufacturing, characterisation, corrosion/erosion), electric and magnetic circuits, basic mechatronics (combination of mechanical and electrical systems), computer interfaces and data acquisition/processing. Students will gain hands-on prototyping experience in workshops (woodwork/metalwork) and with additive manufacturing, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application in an engaging, project-based learning environment. Assessment method: 100% coursework

This module focuses on building services and the environmental performance and develops an understanding of how buildings perform in the areas of acoustics, heat and moisture transfer, lighting, ventilation and air conditioning design. The underlying principles of each topic will be covered, together with more advanced applications, enabling you to demonstrate an understanding of building performance to other professionals within the industry. Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.

This module focuses on the principles and application of surveying in the construction industry using both traditional and modern surveying technology, including the establishment of horizontal/vertical control and basic setting out techniques and processes. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This unit will introduce you to the study of building materials and how buildings are pieced together (i.e. building technology). Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.

This module will introduce you to the study of building technology associated with larger, more complex buildings, as well as to the fundamentals of structural analysis. Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.

The legal content of this module will introduce the sources and basic rules of UK law, including common law and statute law, as it affects construction and property professionals. It will introduce construction contract law, and tort and restitution law as they affect professionals. It will explain the differences between common law and equity and criminal law, and their relevance to construction and property professionals. It will establish the legal and ethical framework of Health and Safety regulation. The economics content of the module will introduce you to micro and macroeconomics, and will examine the theoretical and empirical framework of economics, including price formation, the theory of the firm, degrees of competition, Government economic objectives, monetary policy, behavioural economics, contract theory, inflation and unemployment. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module aims to provide you with the knowledge of the interrelationships between industry, professional bodies and education, and an understanding of key professional and research requirements. It will provide you with a roadmap for your professional career and will enable you to prepare for employment in the construction discipline. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module examines the various types of construction contracts, including families of standard construction contracts, and the common law and legislation and administrative procedures which govern them. It provides a working knowledge and understanding of construction contract legal problems, and related applicable law, such as non-contractual liabilities. It examines when a dispute arises in legal terms, and how dispute resolution methods may be employed to resolve problems and disputes. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module will give you a practical insight into managing property. The roles and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants will be considered in property management, as well as financial calculations informing property management decisions. Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.

This module examines the structure and role of development controls within the development process. Planning policy and building regulations are looked at to understand how planning and building controls influence the success of a development, as well as its compliance with development policy. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module focuses on the range of techniques used by building surveying professionals in the undertaking of different types of surveys on commercial and large residential properties. It also focuses on the development of planned maintenance programmes and reviews financial controls and planned roll-out programmes of work, facility and asset management, building and fire safety legislation, post occupancy legislation incl. the Party Wall etc Act. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module is an in-depth review of key aspects of architecture theory, modern design and conservation through the study of selected British case studies. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module looks at the increasing important role of energy and environmental factors that are increasingly impacting on buildings, their use, and their occupants. Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.

Optional placement year

This module provides you with the opportunity to undertake an independent piece of research, investigating in depth a subject in which you have a particular interest and of your own selection. You'll have to submit a dissertation of between 6,000 and 10,000 words. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

In recent years the specialism of construction project management has been developed by construction professionals working within construction companies, construction consultancies and the public sector. This specialism is required to achieve effective and efficient management of the whole construction process from inception to completion. This module seeks to support this response by introducing the theory underlying project management and applying this to practical issues and problems in the construction industry. Assessment methods: 100% coursework.

This module looks at the role of the entrepreneur and how to set up a business, forms of ownership, the management and marketing of a business, in addition to understanding the financial accounts and risk management. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module provides the knowledge necessary for the execution of the contractual duties of architects, building surveyors, property and construction managers in contracting and development companies, consultancy practice, public service and private corporations. It's designed to build on and apply knowledge obtained from a study of construction law. The module is an introduction to the period of professional training necessary to qualify as a professional and covers key areas of practice. Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.

The module focuses upon a range of techniques used by building surveying professionals in the development of a proposed scheme of work, from the initial receipt of the client’s instructions to the development of the clients brief in relation to a proposed redevelopment scheme which ultimately must be signed off by the client or its appointed representative. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module focuses on introducing you to the various principles of law and valuation that are relevant to surveyors working in the construction and property industries. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

* Modules are subject to review and change throughout the year.

Where will I learn?

This course is taught from our Southwark campus, where you can make the most of our Central London location through trips to the Supreme Court, walking tours through notable Law districts and placements with companies ranging from global brands to local SMEs (small/medium enterprises). You will learn from expert law academics, all of whom have a great deal of experience working and practicing in the legal sector.

We have strong links with the local legal profession, particularly through the South London Law Society and the Southwark Legal Advice Network, as well as with our own graduates practising across London and beyond.

Explore life at LSBU from anywhere - Take a virtual tour to explore our campus, discover key facilities and experience what student life is like.

Explore our campuses

Teaching and Assessment

How will I learn?

Your lecturers are leading practitioners in their fields, so everything we do is industry relevant. Inspiring guest speakers from renowned arts organisations and theatre companies will give you further industry insight and build your professional connections.

Percentage of time spent in different learning activities
Year of study	Lectures, seminars and workshops	Self-directed study
Year 1	34%	66%
Year 2	24%	76%
Year 3	20%	80%

Personal Tutoring

As a Built Environment and Architecture student, you will be allocated a named tutor during your first three weeks at LSBU. The role of your tutor is to be your primary contact for academic and professional development support.

Your tutor will support you to get the most of your time at LSBU, providing advice and signposting to other sources of support in the University.

Your tutor should be the first person at the university that you speak to if you are having any difficulties that are affecting your work. These could be academic, financial, health-related or another type of problem.

You will have appointments with your personal tutor at least once a year for approximately 30 minutes throughout your course. You can contact your tutor for additional support by email or phone.

Careers

What’s in it for me?

Employability Service

At LSBU, we want to set you up for a successful career. During your studies – and for two years after you graduate – you’ll have access to our Employability Service, which includes:

An online board where you can see a wide range of placements: part-time, full-time or voluntary. You can also drop in to see our Job Shop advisers, who are always available to help you take the next step in your search.
Our Careers Gym offering group workshops on CVs, interview techniques and finding work experience, as well as regular presentations from employers across a range of sectors.

Our Student Enterprise team can also help you start your own business and develop valuable entrepreneurial skills.

For those who love construction and enjoy variety in their work, surveying is an interesting and stimulating career choice. Surveyors advise clients about the design and construction of new buildings and maintenance and repair of existing buildings.

Take a look at some potential careers, including building surveyor or quantity surveying, in our P rospects section.

Many of our graduates enter the industry as trainees with quantity surveying/construction firms and organisations in UK and abroad. Recent graduates have gone onto jobs at companies including:

Atkins
GD Surveyors
Prepper
Haringey Council

Positions include:

Building Surveyor
Graduate Building Surveyor

Continuing to postgraduate studies and APC training

This course prepares you for a career in building surveying, allowing you to enter postgraduate studies and the profession at graduate surveyor level. From there you can progress to chartered status through RICS-approved Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) training.

This course is accredited by RICS.

Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors logo

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is the world's leading professional body for setting standards in the surveying industry. They have accredited our degrees and diplomas for almost 50 years.

Expertise and history

London South Bank University has a long history of educating professionals for the building-related industries. With roots in the London Council School of Building (1904) and the Brixton School of Building (1940), we have been offering training in this sector for over 100 years. You’ll benefit directly from our longstanding ties to the industry.

Our current students and alumni hold key positions in their organisation, often as senior managers and business owners.

LSBU CareerSmart is your ultimate gateway to career success. Our innovative programme is designed to ensure you graduate with more than just a degree, providing the support you need to stand out in a competitive job market. We've got all the tools you need, including:

AI Powered Career Sets - Get instant personalised feedback on your CV and cover letter by submitting it via our AI powered career tool.
Gamification Interviews - Get ready to pass those interviews with unlimited training access to our gamification interviews and psychometric tests!
Personalised Career Development Dashboard - Keep up with your skills progression with free access to practical assessments, LinkedIn learning, mentoring, and industry-standard facilities.

We understand that you’re in the driver’s seat of your career, which is why we’re committed to matching your passion and energy every step of the way.

Find out more

Entry Level Requirements

64 UCAS points. Visit UCAS for guidance on the tariff.

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Apply

Course delivery modes and application methods

Mode	Duration	Start date	Application code	Application method
Full-time	4 years (or 5 years with placement)	September	K26F	Direct to LSBU

International (non Home) applicants should follow our international how to apply guide.

How to apply

Read more about how to apply for undergraduate courses.

International students

International applicants can apply directly to LSBU and should consult our international how to apply guide for further information on the application process and key dates.

Accommodation

Read more about applying for accommodation at LSBU.

Prepare to start

Applicant events

After you’ve received your offer we’ll send you emails about events we run to help you prepare for your course. You’ll also be invited to our Applicant Taster Day so keep your eyes peeled!

Enrolment

Before you start your course, we’ll send you information on what you’ll need to do before you arrive and during your first few days on campus. You can read about the process on our enrolment pages.

Fees

United Kingdom

£9790

Tuition fees for home students

International

£17400

Tuition fees for international students

Tuition fees are subject to annual inflationary increases. Find out more about tuition fees for Undergraduate or Postgraduate courses.

For more information, including how and when to pay, see our fees and funding section for undergraduate students.

Please check your fee status and whether you are considered a Home, EU or International student for fee-paying purposes and for our regulatory returns, by reading the UKCISA regulations.

See our Tuition Fees Regulations (PDF File 630 KB) and Refund Policy (PDF File 775 KB).

Possible fee changes

The University reserves the right to increase its fees in line with changes to legislation, regulation and any government guidance or decisions.

The fees for international students are reviewed annually and the University reserves the right to increase the tuition fees to reflect increased costs of delivery and to maintain an a high-quality student experience. This increase would be no more than Consumer Prices Index (CPI) increases plus 5%.

Scholarships

We offer several types of fee reduction through our scholarships and bursaries. Find the full list and other useful information on our scholarships page.

Are you an international student looking to kickstart your global career at LSBU? If so, our new LSBU Future Global Graduate Awards could help you benefit from the high-quality, career focused education that LSBU offers. Find out more about our Global Graduate Awards.