BSc Building Surveying

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Kingston University London

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Building Surveying at Kingston University equips students with deep technical, legal, and professional insight into building maintenance, design, and pathology — everything needed to assess, manage, and preserve buildings. This course is ideal for someone who wants a hands-on but intellectually rich career in surveying — whether in building inspection, conservation, or project management.

Curriculum Structure

Year One
In the first year, students build a solid foundation in the construction industry: the module Principles of Surveying Practice in Context introduces them to the structure of the construction sector, key stakeholders, ethics, and economics of construction. Introduction to Construction Technology teaches them about materials, building methods, and how regulations affect construction choices. Alongside that, Introduction to Law and Regulatory Context gives a grounding in contractual and regulatory frameworks specific to construction, while Introduction to Site Measurement builds practical surveying skills in measuring building elements, and People & Organisation Management develops their understanding of how construction firms operate.

Year Two
The second year is more technical and digitally focused: Digital Technologies and Construction Modelling trains students on BIM (Building Information Modelling), data management, and how modern digital tools shape construction. Construction Technology and Environmental Services deepens their knowledge of commercial building types, service solutions, and how buildings work. Procurement and Contract Administration covers procurement routes, contract roles, and financial administration, while Exploring Engineering Project Management gives hands-on experience in managing construction projects under real‑world constraints. Design and Specification lets students work with material science and produce technical drafts using BIM, and Legal and Regulatory Compliance helps them understand building performance, retrofitting, and maintenance from a legal and regulatory perspective.

Year Three
In their final year, students consolidate everything with a mix of professional and academic work: Project Management provides tools to lead construction projects, manage feasibility, and apply ethical standards; Inspection & Building Pathology teaches detailed diagnostics on building defects, materials, and how to advise on remediation; Construction Information Management Systems asks them to apply BIM/CIMS in collaborative scenarios, and Construction Law & Contract Practice delves into contracts, disputes, and sustainability issues. They also complete an Individual Project, a self-directed research thesis where they choose a surveying topic, analyse it rigorously, and present their findings. Finally, the Future Skills – Apply module helps them reflect on their professional growth, interact with industry mentors, and prepare for employment or entrepreneurship.

Focus Areas

Building pathology, sustainable maintenance, digital surveying, legal & regulatory compliance, project and contract management.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be competent in diagnosing building defects, using BIM for surveying, understanding legal risk in construction, managing projects, and applying ethical and sustainability-led decision-making in building care.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This course is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the Chartered Institution of Building (CIOB), putting students on a solid pathway to becoming a chartered building surveyor.

Reputation / Employability

Kingston University is ranked among the top UK universities for Construction, Surveying & Planning. Graduates go into roles such as building control surveyor, BIM manager, facilities manager, party-wall surveyor, and work at leading firms in the construction sector.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Kingston University, the BSc (Hons) Building Surveying degree focuses on practical, real-world learning from day one. Students engage with site visits, field work, and industry-standard tools while gaining digital skills and professional experience. Hands-on modules cover building pathology, construction technology, and contract administration, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for professional roles.

Students’ experiential learning includes:

Digital Technologies & Construction Modelling module using BIM, virtual reality (VR), and GIS tools to simulate and analyse building projects
Use of Revit for 3D modelling and technical drawing in the “Design & Specification” module
Procurement & Contract Administration module with field trips to live construction sites for real-world contract experience
Final-year group project and independent research project to apply knowledge in collaborative and individual contexts
Inspection & Building Pathology module with site visits and hands-on diagnostics to identify building defects
Professional development module featuring micro-placements, career coaching, and networking
Work placement opportunities in the third year with leading surveying and construction firms

Facilities & Tools

Modern Penrhyn Road campus buildings for civil, construction, and surveying students
Access to labs and computer studios with Revit, BIM, and CAD software
Field equipment and surveying resources for practical site measurement and inspection
Dedicated academic support including personal tutors guiding projects, placements, and research
Resource-rich libraries and IT infrastructure supporting both guided and self-directed study

Why This Degree at Kingston University Is a Smart Choice

Professional Accreditation: Accredited by RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) and CIOB, supporting the path to becoming a chartered surveyor
Strong Industry Connections: Links with top firms for placements and networking
Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers construction technology, legal compliance, building pathology, project management, procurement, and sustainability
Flexible Pathways: Foundation year available if needed before starting the degree
Career Outcomes: Graduates work as building surveyors, BIM managers, project managers, in facilities management, and more

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this program are equipped to enter professional roles in surveying, construction management, and property consultancy. Typical roles include Building Surveyor, Quantity Surveyor, Facilities Manager, and Property Consultant:

University Career Services: Kingston University’s Careers and Employability Service provides tailored guidance, placement opportunities, CV and interview support, and access to employer networking events within the construction and property sectors.
Employment Stats & Salary Figures: Graduates enjoy strong employment prospects, with many securing positions within six months. Starting salaries typically range from £25,000 to £32,000 depending on role and experience.
University–Industry Partnerships: Kingston maintains links with leading construction firms, surveyor networks, and property consultancies, giving students opportunities for work placements, live projects, and professional mentoring.
Long-Term Accreditation Value: The course is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), providing graduates with the pathway toward full professional chartered status.
Graduation Outcomes: Alumni progress into roles in surveying practices, construction firms, facilities management, and project consultancy, or advance to postgraduate study in construction or property disciplines.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can pursue postgraduate programs such as an MSc in Quantity Surveying, Construction Project Management, or Property Development, allowing them to specialize further and enhance their prospects for chartered status or senior professional roles.