The Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management course at Robert Gordon University is a stepping stone for students who see their future careers in the financial management and leadership of projects within the built environment. It provides you with the opportunity to progress towards becoming a Chartered Surveyor and can lead to career opportunities worldwide.
The course enables you to develop construction and quantity surveying core skills through Years 1 and 2, and then apply that learning to more complex project scenarios in Years 3 and 4.
You will be challenged to provide practical solutions to real-world project scenarios drawn from industry. In the second Term of Year 3, you will have the opportunity to extend your learning in the workplace through an industrial placement.
The final year project will require you to apply the knowledge and skills acquired from the course, particularly your problem-solving, creative-thinking and collaborative skills.
Year 1
Introduction of basic concepts of construction and the built environment.
Your first year introduces you to basic concepts of construction, construction professions, building technology, digital skills and collaborative working. You will learn how buildings are constructed and how the role of the Quantity Surveyor alongside other professions, influences this process.
You will undertake a project module that allows you to apply all the skills and learning achieved from other modules in Year 1. You are also expected to undertake formal and informal Continuous Professional Development (CPD) activities that help towards your learning journey and career development and evidence this.
Year 2
Introduction to the essential skills of quantity surveying and development of construction knowledge.You will develop your knowledge of construction then apply that knowledge within the context of the quantity surveying role. You will learn how to produce various levels of cost and carbon plans, measure buildings based on drawings and familiarise yourself with the management of construction projects and legal frameworks.
Similar to Year 1, you will undertake a project module that allows you to apply all the skills and learning achieved from modules in Year 1 & 2. You are expected to continue undertaking formal and informal CPD activities that help towards your learning journey and career development and evidence this.
Year 3
Application of learning in more complex quantity surveying practice.
You will learn about procurement and commercial & contract administration of construction projects, cost and carbon estimating and the measurement of framed buildings.
You have the opportunity to enter the workplace in Semester 2 via the Industrial Placement module or do the on-campus taught alternative if you are unable to find a placement. The learning from previous years and Semester 1 of Year 3 allows you to apply your knowledge to more complex scenarios and is designed to prepare you for entry into the workplace.
Year 4
Introduction of more strategic concepts of the commercial management of construction projects.
The final year of study allows you to apply your learning in the context of the strategic role of the Commercial Manager for construction and infrastructure projects. You will learn about financial control of projects alongside undertaking project work and an academic or industry-based research project on a topic of your choice.
Similar to Year 1 & 2, you will undertake a project module that allows you to apply all the skills and learning achieved from modules in Year 1, 2 & 3. You are expected to continue undertaking formal and informal CPD activities that help towards your learning journey and career development and evidence this.
Student stories
Hear from our students and graduates about their experiences studying this course:
Our sustainability commitment
Responsible design is core to the sustainable agenda of our QSCM course. Our course and its modules, teach you about the construction industry’s place in providing sustainable jobs within a wider economy. Our students are facile in the responsible use of materials, methods of accounting for those and methods for making informed positive changes. The drive towards zero-carbon presents QSCM students with a rewarding and exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of the drive to manage energy use and to minimise emissions through problem solving and collaboration skills.
This course is committed to United Nation's Sustainability Goals 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 15. Find out more on the United Nations website.
Events
We have on campus and virtual events to help you find out more about study, student experience and future career paths.
Modules
Modules and delivery order may change for operational purposes. The University regularly reviews its courses. Course content and structure may change over time. See our course and module disclaimer for more information.
Detailed module informationLearning Methods
Your learning is tutor guided but student centred and is a collaborative process. You will learn through undertaking tasks and projects then reflecting, thus constructing your knowledge. This will ensure that you are prepared to make the transition into the workplace. This is facilitated through the use of project-based learning, tutorials, workshops, lectures and private study. The tasks and projects are often based on real life scenarios brought to the course from staff who have professional experience or from visiting professionals.
Activity Summary
- Lectures - 20 students per group, 1 hour per week
- Project Supervision - 20 students per group, 4-6 hours per week
- Practical class or workshop - 20 students per group, 5 hours per week
- Independent Study - 20 students per group, 10 hours per week
- External Visits - 20 students per group, 3 hours per term
How long is a BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management course?
The Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management course can be successfully completed in 4 years.
Independent Study
We encourage students to develop an independent learning ethos. This is an important skill to take into professional life as employers regularly seek graduates who possess a strong work ethic and a willingness to continue to learn.
Staff Delivering on This Course
The course is delivered by a range of staff who have professional or academic qualifications. We have a small team of Surveying staff who deliver the core modules. This is augmented with staff from across the school who are qualified architects, engineers and architectural technologists. We are also very fortunate to receive regular input from practicing professionals who provide “real” and current scenarios for students to apply their knowledge to.
Assessment
Typically students are assessed each year:
Year 1
- 3 portfolios
- 1 project output
Year 2
- 1 report
- 2 portfolios
- 1 project output
Year 3
- 3 portfolios
Year 4
- 3 portfolios
- 1 project output
Feedback
We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all coursework and presentations.
Academic Support
The Inclusion Centre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia and other specific learning differences. Applicants are encouraged to arrange a pre-entry visit to discuss any concerns and to view the facilities.
Online Learning & Support
All undergraduate and postgraduate students, whether you are learning on campus or by online learning, benefit from using our collaborative virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle. You will be provided with 24/7 online access to your learning material and resources, along with the ability to interact with your class members and tutors for discussion and support.
Study Skills Support
The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in:
- Academic writing
- Study skills (note taking, exam techniques, time management, presentation)
- Maths and statistics
- English language
- Information technology support
Library Support
The Library offers support for your course, including the books, eBooks, and journals you will need. We also offer online reading lists for many modules, workshops and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing, and much more.
Placements
You are provided the opportunity and encouraged to undertake a term of Industrial Placement in Term 2 of Year 3. This lasts for a minimum of 600 hours but can be extended at the employer’s discretion.
The placement is usually paid and students can find employment with employers in any field of construction or property. Previous employers have included WM Donald, Babcock International, BAMNuttall, McLeod and Aitken, Aberdeen City Council, Robertson’s Construction, W.I. Talbots, Morrisons, Nicol of Skene, CHAP, CALA and Cummings.
Placements are extremely valuable to students and the employment often extends through final year and can convert into a graduate position on completion of the course.
You are expected to source your own placement positions, with the support of the course team who have very close relationships with numerous employers. The University will also provide valuable support in how to source employers and how to discuss potential positions with them.
Placements at RGUJob Prospects
Is Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management a good career?
Graduates from this course will be able to progress their career both nationally and internationally. Career prospects extend beyond Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management. You will have the ability to pursue careers in Project Management, Contract Administration, Dispute Resolution, Procurement, Property Development and so on.
Opportunities for construction graduates/ professionals are on a global scale and we have alumni working in the USA, New Zealand, Australia as well as all over the UK.
What are the entry requirements for a BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management degree?
Standard Entry Requirements
SQA Higher: BBCC to include English (or a written subject requiring the use of English). Maths or a science subject is required at National 5 grade C or above if not held at Higher.
GCE A Level: CCC to include English (or a written subject requiring the use of English). Maths or a science subject is required at GCSE grade 5/C or above if not held at A Level.
Irish Leaving Certificate Higher: H3H3H3H3 to include English (or a written subject requiring the use of English). Maths or a science subject is required at grade O3 or above if not held at Higher.
IB Diploma: 26 to include Higher Level English (or a written subject requiring the use of English). Maths is required at Standard Level grade 4 or above if not held at Higher Level.
Minimum Entry Requirements
The minimum entry requirements for widening access applicants are:
SQA Higher: BCC/CCCC to include English or a written subject requiring the use of English. Maths or a Science required at National 5 C if not held at Higher.
Alternative Qualifications
We welcome applications from those with equivalent qualifications to those stated, including SVQs/NVQs, access programmes, Foundation Apprenticeships and overseas qualifications. Applications from students with non-standard qualifications or work experience will be considered on an individual basis.
Applicants from Partner Colleges
A relevant HNC or HND from one of our partner colleges will be considered for entry into Year 2 or 3 subject to meeting requirements.
Advanced Entry
All other applicants who are interested in applying for advanced entry will be considered on an individual basis.
International Students
International students who do not meet our direct entry requirements for this course can gain additional entry points through our International College at Robert Gordon University.
English Language Requirements
Applicants whose first language is not English should have an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with no component lower than 5.5, or an equivalent.
We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:
Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact admissions@rgu.ac.uk for further information.
Academic Year 2024-2025
Scottish Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 4 years | Year 1 | £1820 |
| Year 2 | £1820 | |
| Year 3 | £1820 | |
| Year 4 | £1820 | |
Rest of UK Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 4 years | Year 1 | £6930 |
| Year 2 | £6930 | |
| Year 3 | £6930 | |
| Year 4 | £6930 | |
EU Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 4 years | Year 1 | £6930 |
| Year 2 | £6930 | |
| Year 3 | £6930 | |
| Year 4 | £6930 | |
International Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 4 years | Year 1 | £17720 |
| Year 2 | £17720 | |
| Year 3 | £17720 | |
| Year 4 | £17720 | |
Additional Costs
- Laptop £600 to £800
- Stationery approx. £30 per year
Some other costs are not included in the course fees:
- The cost of books that you may wish to purchase.
- Costs associated with any placement / study abroad
- Accommodation and Living Costs
- Printing
Student Funding
If you are a Scottish resident, you may be eligible for funding and should apply to SAAS for funding.
Students from other parts of the UK should visit the appropriate website:
Scholarships and Financial Awards
You may qualify for a scholarship or financial award:
Disclaimer
For new intakes, course fees are reviewed and published annually for each mode of delivery. Tuition fees are fixed for the duration of a course at the rate confirmed in the offer letter. For further information:
Any questions?
Get in touch with our Student Admissions Service and we'll do our best to help.