Quantity Surveying (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons)

Professional accreditation: Accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and is a recognised qualification for students to progress on to the Assessment of Professional Competence Graduate Training Programme.

Career progression: This course will prepare you for a career in building surveying, allowing you to enter the profession at graduate surveyor level, where you can progress to chartered status through RICS-approved APC training.

Work experience: You'll have the option to undertake a work placement in your third year.

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 successful quantity 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 Quantity Surveying undergraduate degree programme at LSBU (upon successful completion of the foundation year).

Surveyors consult plans

Course Content

What will I learn?

With a broad construction curriculum, this course will make you fully equipped to take up professional responsibility in a management role within the construction industry. We’ll cover: management and business practice, law, economics, construction technology and materials, measurement and project management. You can choose to take an optional year in industry in your third year.

Methods of assessment for course overall: A combination of written examinations, student-led seminars, written and analytical exercises, and individual and group assignments.

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 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 provide an introduction to 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 macro economics, 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 provides an understanding of the fundamental concepts underlying the requirement to quantify and specify construction work. You'll establish the underlying principles required for the independent production of tender documents. The module will also provide the basic practical skills in measurement required for private practice, contracting and public service. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module is about the economics of the construction and property sectors. It focuses on providing a description of the construction sector and an economic explanation of markets and industries, as well as some of the major features of construction products. Furthermore, it briefly provides an economic analysis of how investment, property and construction link together and to the wider economy. It also examines the role of regulation in dealing with negative externalities. Aspects of European construction will be examined, and flexible production in the context of construction organisations will be discussed. Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.

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.

The module will focus on the QS techniques for appraising projects, developing cost plans, project budget and cashflow, controlling contract costs, valuation procedures and dealing with the administration of contracts and payments. The aims of this module are to develop a critical understanding of the range of appraisal techniques used by quantity surveyors, commercial managers or cost consultants and to understand the QS work patterns and use of these techniques at different project stages and the RIBA Plan of work. The aims of this module are to develop a critical understanding of the range of appraisal techniques used by quantity surveyors, commercial managers, or cost consultants and to understand the QS work patterns and use of these techniques at different project stages and the RIBA Plan of work. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

The focus of this module is on the Professional Office Quantity Surveyor advising clients on procurement systems, undertaking cost planning exercises, preparing expected prime costs, procuring and assessing principal contractors’ estimates, tendering process and tender evaluation, and evaluating claims for loss and expense. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module is designed to provide you with a comprehensive grounding in measurement and analytical estimating to both be able to apply measurement skills to more advanced forms of construction and perform measurement and estimating duties in the role of a junior quantity surveyor in a practitioner’s office. 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 the quantity surveyor and commercial manager 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.

This module holistically integrates learning from all Level 4 and 5 modules on the BSc Commercial Management and Quantity Surveying courses. It sets learning in a realistic project environment and simulates practice problem solving and task management. 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.

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Teaching and Assessment

Structure of qualification

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
	Lectures, seminars and workshops	Self-directed study
Year 1	34%	66%
Year 2	23%	77%
Year 3	18%	82%

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

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 interested in construction and wanting a professional level job, quantity surveying could be ideal. Quantity surveyors have to make sure that projects meet legal and quality standards, as well as ensuring clients get good value for money. Understanding organisational structure and cost control aspects of construction projects are essential for quantity surveyors.

Take a look at some potential careers, including quantity surveyor, in our Prospects section.

Recent graduates have become quantity surveyors/estimators, site managers, construction project managers and commercial managers. And, of course you can choose to extend your qualifications by taking on further postgraduate study.

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 London Council School of Building (1904), Brixton School of Building (1940) we have been offering training for 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	K24F	Direct to LSBU

Application details will be shared once the programme has been formally approved.

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

Finance

You don't need to wait for a confirmed place on a course to start applying for student finance. Read how to pay your fees as an undergraduate student.

Applicants for this course may also be eligible for the Chancerygate Foundation Bursary. Find out more here.

Preparatory Reading List

Temple, M.(2004) Studying the built environment. Hampshire: Palgrave Macmillan.
Parker, D. (1994) Tackling coursework: assignments, projects, reports and presentations. London: Letts Educational
Domone, P. & Illston, J., 2010: Construction Materials. Their Nature and Behaviour
Using Light Steel Framing: Design of Residential Buildings
Seward, D., 2009: Understanding Structures (4^th Ed), Palgrave Macmillan
Taylor, G.D., 2000: Materials of Construction (3^rd Ed), Longman
Bradney, A., Cownie F., Masson J., Neal A.C., Newell D., (2010) How to Study Law (6^th edn.) Thompson, Sweet & Maxwell, London.
Coyle, D., (2004) Sex, Drugs and Economics, an Unconventional
Introduction to Economics, Thomson, Australia, New York.
Mankiw, N.G., and Taylor, M. P., (2010), Economics, Thomson, London.
Turner C., and Hodge S., (2010) Unlocking Torts (2^nd edn.) Hodder, Turner, London.
Turner C., (2010) Unlocking Contract Law (3rd edn.) Hodder, Turner, London.
McMullan R, Environmental Science in Building, Macmillan, 6^th Edn, 2007
Hall F and Greeno R, Building Services Handbook, Butterworth Heinemann, 5^th Edition, 2009
Irvine, W, Surveying For Construction 8^th Edition McGraw Hill, 2008
Uren and Price, Surveying For Engineers (5^th Ed), Palgrave Macmillan
Brookes, A.J. & Meijs, M., Cladding of Buildings, 2007
Eisele, J. & Klaft, E. (Eds.), High Rise Manual: Typology and Design, Construction and Technology, 2003
Reichel, A., Ackermann, P., Hentschel, A. & Hachberg, A., Building with Steel: Details, Principles, Examples, 2007

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.

The individual Tuition Fee for this course is shown below. For full details, including how and when to pay, see our fees and funding section for undergraduate students.

Scholarships

We offer students considerable financial help through scholarships, bursaries, charitable funds, loans and other financial support. The majority of our scholarships are given as direct Tuition Fee discounts and we encourage all eligible students to apply for our National Scholarship Programme (NSP). The NSP features 100 full scholarships that exempt students from all Tuition Fees, and there are many more partial scholarships. Find out more about scholarships and fee discounts for undergraduate students.