GA course secures major construction accreditation

The CIOB, the leading international professional body for the construction industry, is celebrating its 190th anniversary this year. The accreditation underscores the quality and industry relevance of RGU's BSc (Hons) Construction and the Built Environment GA programme, which has been developed in collaboration with industry partners, Skills Development Scotland, and others in the higher education sector.

The GA Programme offers specialisation in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Architectural Technology, and Building Surveying, and is delivered primarily online, with on-campus teaching and workplace learning included in the delivery.

Professor Peter Exley, Dean of the Scott Sutherland School of Architecture and Built Environment, said: “Our CIOB accreditation emphasises the professionalism of Scott Sutherland School’s graduates who are qualified to contribute locally and globally towards catalysing equity alongside their capacity to create resilient, accessible built environments during climate crisis, and beyond.”

Arwa Al Jumaily, Course Leader of the BSc (Hons) Construction and the Built Environment GA, stated: “This accreditation from the CIOB is excellent news for both our staff and students at The Scott Sutherland School of Architecture and Built Environment and wider RGU. It represents a significant milestone and will further enhance the appeal of our GA programme moving forward.”

Rosalind Thorpe, Director of Education and Standards at CIOB said: “As part of CIOB’s continued commitment to help develop the next generation of talented leaders in the construction industry, we were delighted to accredit RGU's Graduate Apprenticeship in Construction and the Built Environment.

“Undertaking a CIOB accredited course guarantees a route towards full membership of CIOB and gives students global recognition of their capability and confidence, reassuring future employers they reflect the high educational standards which we set.”

With this accreditation, students in the programme are now eligible to apply for the CIOB Certificate of Excellence, awarded to the final year student with the highest marks in their class. They may also be a member of the CIOB with membership of the body free to all students.

The BSc (Hons) Construction and the Built Environment GA course includes four streams:

• Construction Management
• Quantity Surveying
• Architectural Technology
• Building Surveying

These provide the knowledge, understanding, and skills sought by employers. The course is designed to offer practical work-based learning , enabling students to develop their expertise in their chosen field. The curriculum emphasises personal and interpersonal skills, professional practice, environmental sustainability, digital practices, and health and safety while enabling people to earn while they are learning.

Throughout their studies, students apply their knowledge and skills to design and manage real-life construction projects, preparing them for professional careers within the built environment and now formally recognised by the Chartered Institute of Business.

Image shows people attending the Scott's end of year degree show.