You are on page 1of 17

B1 Programme Specification BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management with Diploma in Professional Practice (DPP) / DPP

International / International Academic Studies with AB exit award F/T (6930) BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management with AB exit award P/T (6931)
PLEASE NOTE: This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the course and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if he or she takes full advantage of the learning opportunities provided. More detailed information on the specific learning outcomes, content and the teaching, learning and assessment methods of each module can be found at http://www.adbe.ulster.ac.uk/ and in the programme and module handbooks 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 AWARD INSTITUTION/BODY: University of Ulster TEACHING INSTITUTION: University of Ulster LOCATION: Jordanstown Campus ACCREDITED BY: Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) FINAL AWARD: (FT) BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management with DPP/DPP (International) / DIAS (PT) BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management MODE OF ATTENDANCE: Full-time/Part-time SPECIALISMS: None COURSE/UCAS CODE: 6930 FT & 6931PT: UCAS Code K240 DATE REVISED: Effective from September 2011

10 EDUCATIONAL AIMS OF THE COURSE To develop

a thorough systematic understanding of the principles, roles and purposes of quantity surveying practice; its relationship within the context of a unified surveying profession; and the international variations in professional involvement in traditional surveying activities.

To develop the critical, creative, intellectual and analytical abilities of students, thereby facilitating skills in problem solving and data handling using ideas and techniques, some of which are at the forefront of the discipline, as applied in relevant aspects of property design, construction, maintenance, investment, management and marketing. To foster the inter-personal, personal management and other relevant transferable skills together with the professional skills, techniques and expertise necessary to enable the graduate to pursue a career in quantity surveying practice in the British Isles or internationally. To encourage and develop self-motivated academic enquiry with an appreciation of the uncertainty, ambiguity and limits of knowledge, independent learning skills and the utilisation and application of new technologies to meet the changing demands of professional practice both locally and further afield.

B1

To produce graduates with an ability to describe and comment upon particular aspects of current research or equivalent advanced scholarship, providing a suitable base for post-graduate research and development, thus enabling the quantity surveyor to compete at the highest levels of management with other professionals in the property development, construction and investment industries. To produce graduates with an awareness of the importance of life-long learning in the future development of their chosen career. To provide students with the relevant vocational education in the core areas of construction technology, maintenance management and construction project procurement and other relevant subjects. In addition for students on the Diploma in Professional Practice/Diploma in International Academic Studies Programme: * To enhance an understanding of the work place. * To develop personal and professional skills. 11 MAIN LEARNING OUTCOMES The following reference points were used to inform the development of the programme and its learning outcomes:

the Universitys Vision and core strategic aims, teaching and learning strategy and policies; subject benchmark statement, QAA benchmarks for Construction, Property and Surveying 2008 requirements of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors as accrediting Professional Body national and University qualifications and credit frameworks; The Framework for Higher Education Qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, 2008

The course provides opportunities for students to achieve and demonstrate the following learning. Successful students will be able to:

11K KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF SUBJECT K1 recognize the key concepts, theories and principles used in quantity surveying, including measurement, legal principles, economic theory and applied economics, design, construction and the application of management theories. critically review the context in which quantity surveying operates, including legal, economic, health and safety, technological, physical and environmental influences. B2

K2

K3

recognise the linkages and inter-relationships between the elements of the discipline of quantity surveying and the relationships between the discipline and related disciplines operating in the built and natural environments; develop specialist knowledge in construction, financial management and business management, human-building interaction and valuation; recognise the professions and industries allied to quantity surveying, their operation and the linkages between them; embrace professional ethics, their impact on the operation of the professions and their influence on the society, communities and the stakeholders with whom they have contact. demonstrate specialist knowledge of construction related management practices.

K4 K5 K6

K7

Teaching and Learning Methods: Knowledge and understanding of the subject are acquired mainly through lectures, tutorials, directed reading, laboratories, case studies, seminars, and IT based resources. Assessment Methods: Assessment of the above is principally through formal closed book examinations, class tests and coursework assignments consisting of laboratory reports, essays, individual and group exercises, a group project, oral/poster presentations and an individual final year research dissertation 11I INTELLECTUAL QUALITIES I1 I2 I3 I4 I5 critically evaluate new concepts and evidence from a range of sources. solve routine and unfamiliar problems, including collecting, analysing and interpreting data. self-manage and learn independently, such that they can analyse their own personal strengths and weaknesses and formulate strategies for improvement. question standard practice, and apply professional judgement in making recommendations and solving problems for future best practice. plan, conduct and accept responsibility for reporting on a programme of original research.

Teaching and Learning Methods: These qualities are developed through exercise classes/tutorials, coursework assignments, individual and group studio work and simulation exercises. Assessment Methods: The above are assessed through formal examinations, class tests and more open ended coursework assignments consisting of a range of B3

problem simulation, oral/poster presentations/interviews and an individual final year research dissertation. 11P P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7 PROFESSIONAL/PRACTICAL SKILLS effectively apply information technology such that they can acquire, design, use and modify existing technologies; use statistical concepts, some of which will be at the forefront of knowledge, such that they can interpret, analyse and manipulate data; exercise initiative in researching for related literature and information; formulate and propose solutions and interventions to address construction costing exercises critically assess the appropriateness of pre-contract procurement routes to optimise construction accept responsibility in developing safe working practices, foster an awareness of the needs, roles, rights and responsibilities of others; apply appropriate construction project management techniques to specific problems.

Teaching and Learning Methods: Professional and practical skills are gained through coursework assignments including, laboratory work, problem solving assignments and studio work undertaken individually or in small groups, a group project and an individual final year research dissertation. Assessment Methods: Assessment of the above skills is by practical tests including laboratory reports and problem simulation, and an individual final year research dissertation. Some aspects are also assessed by formal open and closed book examinations. 11T TRANSFERABLE SKILLS T1 T2 T3 locate, extract and analyse data from multiple sources, including drawn information; apply the use of appropriate quantitative and other equipment, and use generic and specialist software; communicate professionally such that they can present quantitative and qualitative information, together with analysis, argument and commentary, in a form appropriate to both specialist and non-specialist audiences, including appropriate acknowledgement and referencing of sources; B4

T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9

effectively work with others and accept responsibility for group outcomes. self-manage and learn independently such that they can analyse their own personal strengths and weaknesses and formulate strategies for improvement; develop skills, which allow life long learning; summarise and disseminate the crucial aspects of legal and other documents; manage time and resources effectively and efficiently; appreciate the role of the quantity surveyor in society;

Teaching and Learning Methods: Basic IT and communication skills are taught in Year 1. These and the other skills listed above are developed through coursework assignments including the preparation of reports, problem solving assignments / studio work undertaken individually or in small groups and an individual final year research dissertation. Assessment Methods: The above skills are assessed by reports on problem simulation, an individual final year dissertation, observation of management simulation exercises and oral/ poster presentations.

11b MAIN LEARNING OUTCOMES Exit Award Associate Bachelors Degree The following reference points were used to inform the development of the programme and its learning outcomes:

the Universitys Vision and core strategic aims, teaching and learning strategy and policies; subject benchmark statement, QAA benchmarks for Construction, Property and Surveying 2008 requirements of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors as accrediting Professional Body national and University qualifications and credit frameworks; The Framework for Higher Education Qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, 2008

The course provides opportunities for students to achieve and demonstrate the following learning. Successful students will be able to:

B5

11K KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF SUBJECT K1 recognize the key concepts, theories and principles used in quantity surveying, including measurement, legal principles, economic theory and applied economics, design, construction and the application of management theories. review the context in which quantity surveying operates, including legal, economic, health and safety, technological, physical and environmental influences. recognise the linkages and inter-relationships between the elements of the discipline of quantity surveying and the relationships between the discipline and related disciplines operating in the built and natural environments; develop specialist knowledge in construction, financial management and business management, human-building interaction and valuation; recognise the professions and industries allied to quantity surveying, their operation and the linkages between them;

K2

K3

K4 K5

Teaching and Learning Methods: Knowledge and understanding of the subject are acquired mainly through lectures, tutorials, directed reading, laboratories, case studies, seminars, and IT based resources. Assessment Methods: Assessment of the above is principally through formal closed book examinations, class tests and coursework assignments consisting of laboratory reports, essays, individual and group exercises, a group project, oral/poster presentations. 11I INTELLECTUAL QUALITIES I1 I2 I3 I4 evaluate new concepts and evidence from a range of sources. solve routine and unfamiliar problems, including collecting, analysing and interpreting data. self-manage and learn independently, such that they can analyse their own personal strengths and weaknesses and formulate strategies for improvement. apply standard practice and judgement in making recommendations and solving problems for future best practice.

Teaching and Learning Methods: These qualities are developed through exercise classes/tutorials, coursework assignments, individual and group studio work and simulation exercises.

B6

Assessment Methods: The above are assessed through formal examinations, class tests and more open ended coursework assignments consisting of a range of problem simulation, oral/poster presentations/interviews. 11P P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 PROFESSIONAL/PRACTICAL SKILLS effectively apply information technology such that they can acquire, design, use and modify existing technologies; use statistical concepts, some of which will be at the forefront of knowledge, such that they can interpret, analyse and manipulate data; exercise initiative in researching for related literature and information; formulate solutions and interventions to address construction costing exercises assess the appropriateness of pre-contract procurement routes to optimise construction accept responsibility in developing safe working practices, foster an awareness of the needs, roles, rights and responsibilities of others;

Teaching and Learning Methods: Professional and practical skills are gained through coursework assignments including, laboratory work, problem solving assignments and studio work undertaken individually or in small groups, a group project and an individual final year research dissertation. Assessment Methods: Assessment of the above skills is by practical tests including laboratory reports and problem simulation. Some aspects are also assessed by formal open and closed book examinations. 11T TRANSFERABLE SKILLS T1 T2 T3 locate, extract and analyse data from multiple sources, including drawn information; use appropriate quantitative and other equipment, and use generic and specialist software; communicate effectively such that they can present quantitative and qualitative information, together with analysis, argument and commentary, in a form appropriate to both specialist and non-specialist audiences, including appropriate acknowledgement and referencing of sources; effectively work with others and accept responsibility for group outcomes. summarise legal and other documents; B7

T4 T5

T6 T7

manage time and resources; appreciate the role of the quantity surveyor in society;

Teaching and Learning Methods: Basic IT and communication skills are taught in Year 1. These and the other skills listed above are developed through coursework assignments including the preparation of reports, problem solving assignments / studio work undertaken individually or in small groups and an individual final year research dissertation. Assessment Methods: The above skills are assessed by reports on problem simulation, an individual final year dissertation, observation of management simulation exercises and oral/ poster presentations.

B8

11

PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOME MAP

Please Note: The matrix displays only the measurable programme outcomes and where these are developed and assessed within the modules offered in the programme.

TITLES Construction Business Management Domestic Construction Technology Domestic Construction Measurement Construction Law Building Services Technology CAD for Surveyors Economics Procurement & Administration Commercial Construction Technology Commercial Construction Measurement Commercial Management Construction Contracts Estimating & Cost Planning Quantity Surveying Placement DPP/DIAS Advanced Measurement Civil Engineering Technology QS Project Dissertation Project Management Construction Economics

LEVEL 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 6 6 6 6 6 6

CODE SUR137 SUR134 SUR111 SUR133 SUR135 SUR136 SUR105 SUR308 SUR303 SUR324 SUR327 SUR323 SUR316 SUR318 SUR509 SUR506 SUR521 SUR520 SUR505 SUR511

K 1

K 2 x

K 3 x

K 4

K 5 x

K 6

K 7

I1 x

I2

I3 x

I4

I5

P 1 x

P 2

P 3 x

P 4

P 5

P 6 x x

P 7

T 1

T 2

T 3 x

T 4

T 5

T 6

T 7

T 8

T9 x

x x

x x x x x x x x

x x x x x x x x x x

x x x x x x

x x

x x

x x x

x x x x x

x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

x x x

x x x x

x x

x x x

x x x x x

x x x x

x x

x x

x x x

x x

B9

11b

PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOME MAP (Exit Award)

Please Note: The matrix displays only the measurable programme outcomes and where these are developed and assessed within the modules offered in the programme.

TITLES Construction Business Management Domestic Construction Technology Domestic Construction Measurement Construction Law Building Services Technology CAD for Surveyors Economics Procurement & Administration Commercial Construction Technology Commercial Construction Measurement Commercial Management Construction Contracts Estimating & Cost Planning

LEVEL 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5

CODE SUR137 SUR134 SUR111 SUR133 SUR135 SUR136 SUR105 SUR308 SUR303 SUR324 SUR327 SUR323 SUR316

K 1 x x

K 2 x x

K 3 x

K 4

K 5 x

I1 x

I2

I3 x

I4

P 1 x

P 2

P 3 x

P 4

P 5

P 6 x x

T 1

T 2

T 3 x

T 4 x

T 5 x

T 6

T7 x

x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

x x

x x x x

x x x x

x x x x x x

x x

x x

x x

x x x x x

x x x x x x x

x x x x

x x x x x x x x

x x x x x x

B10

12 AWARD

The BSc (Hons) degree with Diploma in Professional Practice (DPP)/Diploma in International Academic Studies (DIAS) is a thick sandwich programme of 4 years duration. Years 1, 2 & 4 each comprise modules totalling 120 credit points studied over 2 semesters. Year 3 is spent in supervised industrial placement comprising a module of 60 credit points. The part-time programme is of 6 years duration. Part-time students normally take 60 credit points of study each year over 2 semesters. Year 1 & 2 part time equate to Year 1 of the full time sandwich programme. Years 3 & 4 part time equate to Year 2 of the full time sandwich programme, and years 5 & 6 part time equate to year 4 of the full time sandwich programme. See Section 14 for the admission requirements for the part-time programme. The BSc Hons degree is a three-year full-time course. It is identical in academic content to the above programme and is only open to those students who can demonstrate prior work experience of a duration and content equivalent to the Year 3 industrial placement. Typically each module consists of a discrete unit within which 1 credit points equates to 10 hours of student learning.

The language of instruction is English


Module Title Credit Level Credit Points 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 20 20 20 20 10 10 20 Module Status C C C C C C C Awards

Year 1 Sandwich and Full time Modes SUR137Construction Business Management SUR134 Domestic Construction Technology SUR111 Domestic Construction Measurement SUR133 Construction Law SUR135 Building Services Technology SUR136 CAD for Surveyors SUR105 Economics Year 2 Sandwich and Full Time Modes SUR308 Procurement & Administration SUR303 Commercial Construction Technology SUR324 Commercial Construction Measurement SUR327 Commercial Management SUR323 Construction Contracts SUR316 Estimating & Cost Planning Year 3 Sandwich Mode only SUR318 Quantity Surveying Placement

20 C 20 C 20 C 20 C 20 C 20 C Exit Award: Associate Bachelors Degree

5 60 C DPP/DPP(International)/DIAS on award of degree Year 4 Sandwich Mode. Year 3 Full Time Mode SUR509 Advanced Measurement 6 20 C

B11

SUR506 Civil Engineering Technology SUR521 QS Project SUR520 Dissertation SUR505 Project Management SUR511 Construction Economics

6 6 6 6 6

20 10 30 20 20

C C C C C BSc (Hons) Degree

13

SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS AND THEIR LEARNING

Students and their learning are supported in a number of ways: ! Induction process: Provision of a comprehensive induction programme for all entrants where they will be introduced to Student Handbooks, module study guide booklets and other key information. Library induction programme relevant to the subject will also be organised. Course/Subject Director: Convenient access to the Course Director and module co-ordinators through informal communications, via e-mail and planned meetings. Advisers of Studies: The use of personal studies advisors. Personal Development Planning: Access to the Personal Development System tool to manage Personal Development Planning. Careers Development Centre: Provides help with placement opportunities, career planning and post graduation career support. Information Services Department: Training in use of IT facilities through the Information Services Department. Student Support Department: Access to the Student Support Department, providing services related to counselling and guidance, health, careers advice, accommodation, childcare, finance and special needs as well as University protocols for students with special needs. Sport and Recreation Department: Access to a range of activities through the Sport and Recreation Department. International Office: Where required access to the services of the International Office Students Union: Access to the Students Union Chaplaincy: easy access to the Chaplaincy facilities. Health Services: Access to the University clinic. Guidance on health and safety matters B12

! ! ! ! !

! ! ! ! ! !

! !

University Web Portal providing general information on the university, the programme and its modules and study skills packages. Access to ViBEL (Virtual Built Environment Library) and the online learning environment: WebCT. Preparation for placement and help in finding placement opportunities Academic staff visit students on placement The Careers Service, in conjunction with programme teams, provides careers advice and the preparation for Industrial Placement Student membership and participation in Professional bodies is encouraged and is facilitated during the Induction programme, A number of the core teaching staff are members the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

14

CRITERIA FOR ADMISSION

Full-time undergraduate programme Applicants must satisfy the Universitys general entry requirements as set out in the prospectus or demonstrate their ability to undertake the course through the accreditation of prior experiential learning (APEL). This is to be achieved through the production of a portfolio of written evidence demonstrating the meeting of the learning outcomes of the entry requirements (including subject specific outcomes, specified by Course Committee). Evidence used to demonstrate entrance requirements may not be used for exemption against modules within the programme. The initial offer standard may vary from year to year. See prospectus entry. Part-time undergraduate programme Applicants should have an equivalent qualification as for entry to the full-time programme. They should normally have at least three years recent continuous experience in and currently be employed in the construction industry. However consideration may in exceptional circumstances be given to mature students who can document and demonstrate previous experiential learning relevant to the programme.

B13

15

EVALUATING AND IMPROVING THE QUALITY AND STANDARD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING

The following mechanisms are used for evaluating and improving teaching and learning quality: ! The Universitys vision and core strategic aims, teaching and learning strategy and policies; External benchmark standards: continuous evaluation and improvement to ensure that the standards set by QAA in the Framework for Higher Education 2008 specifically the Benchmark Statement for Construction, Property and Surveying, at level 6 is met. Views of students as expressed through staff/student consultation: Students are given the opportunity to be represented on the Course Committee and at Faculty Board. Student/staff consultative meetings provide the means of highlighting any difficulties, relating to the course, experienced by the cohort. The University student survey on the quality of teaching and other questionnaires: Formal student feedback is sought on the content and delivery of each module via an online module evaluation questionnaire. Views of graduates in the National Student Survey Views of employers: Feedback from employers through the Professional Training and Liaison Committee (PTLC) and also through employers engagement forum. Views of external examiners and Annual Subject Monitoring: These involve the consideration of the annual course review report and reports from the External Examiner. They provide for a detailed and focussed consideration of the quality of delivery of the course. Student performance data and career progression University approval and re-validation by a panel including internal academics and external members takes place every 5 years Upon completion the module team reviews each module. Statistical information, student feedback, content, delivery, assessment methods, resources and proposed enhancements are considered. The course committee considers module evaluations and other student feedback, with matters of concern highlighted for action, as part of the annual course review report. The School Courses Directorate meets regularly to review matters relating to the management, delivery and quality of all taught courses in the School. B14

! !

! ! !

! ! !

Staff teaching performance is monitored annually through student questionnaires and peer observation. Staff appraisal is carried out on a 2 year cycle with attention given to the development needs of the individual staff member. Most teaching staff have completed, or are currently enrolled on the PG Certificate in Higher Education Practice (PGCHEP), or its equivalent forerunner qualifications. At Faculty levels there are active Teaching and Learning Committees responsible for co-ordinating developments and initiatives relating to innovative methods for delivery, technology mediated learning, as well as general resource issues. In addition, these committees are responsible for regulating Faculty codes of practice relating to course management and delivery. The University has an active Staff Development Unit which supports and funds specific research/projects into improvement of delivery and overall student experience. The student experience is enhanced by the ongoing research and consultancy conducted by teaching staff. The student experience is enhanced through teaching staff involvement in the management and development of their respective professional bodies. WebCT is used to supplement in-class learning activities. The Library and Resource Centre (LRC) in association with the School of the Built Environment has developed a Virtual Built Environment Library (ViBEL) to provide a subject focussed interface to the extensive electronic learning resources available to enrolled students.

! ! ! !

In addition, there are University/ Faculty/School strategies for teaching and learning. 16 REGULATION OF STANDARDS

Assessment rules General course regulations are in accordance with the current University of Ulster Charter, Statutes, Ordinances and Regulations, are described in full in Section B3. In modules that are assessed by either coursework or written examination, the pass mark is 40%. In modules that are assessed by a combination of coursework and written examination, the pass mark for each assessment element is 40%.

B15

The pass mark for the award of the Diploma in Professional Practice placement year/Diploma in International Academic Studies is 50%; a mark of 40% is sufficient for progression to the next stage of the course Classification of Final Results Honours classification derives 100% from level 6 modules undertaken in year 4 of the full time programme. Each module is weighted in proportion to its credit point rating.

The following percentages are used as a basis for determining a candidates overall classification: Class I Class II (division i) (IIi) Class II (division ii) (IIii) Class III At least 70% At least 60% and less than 70% At least 50% and less than 60% At least 40% and less than 50%

Award of Diploma in Professional Practice/Diploma in International Academic Studies The following are the minimum percentages used in determining the overall gradings of candidates. DPP/DIAS Pass with Commendation Pass At least 70% At least 50% and less than 70%

External examiners There are two external examiners, one from industry and one from academia and they are approved by the Faculty Board and appointed for the course. External examiners are academic subject or professional experts appointed from outside the University. Their key functions are to contribute to the assurance of the standards of the award and the fair treatment of students. They are involved in the moderation and approval of assessments and the moderation of the marking undertaken by internal examiners. 17 INDICATORS OF QUALITY RELATING TO TEACHING AND LEARNING Teaching staff within the Faculty are encouraged to become accredited members of the Higher Education Academy (HEA). To date a number of staff B16

have fulfilled the requirements through completion of the Postgraduate Certificate in University Teaching (PGCHEP). As well as teaching, most staff are actively engaged in research that informs their teaching. In addition, most have substantial industrial experience prior to joining the University. A significant number are full members of appropriate professional bodies e.g. RICS In the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise staff teaching on the Programme contributed to Unit 30 Built Environment gaining a score of 5. The RAE 2008, the Built Environment Research Institute obtained the following profile with 15% of activities classified as four star (world leading research), 50% rated at three star (internationally excellent), 30% two star (international quality) and 5% at one star (research of national quality). Collectively 95% of activities were considered to be of international standing in terms of rigour, significance and innovation The programme is examined by the Annual Subject Monitoring process and also periodic Subject Validation.

B17

You might also like