BSc Building Surveying

The BSc Building Surveying program at the University of Reading provides hands-on training in assessing, managing, and maintaining buildings across their lifecycle. Students gain practical skills in building inspection, defect analysis, cost management, and sustainable design, preparing them for professional roles in surveying and property management. The program combines workshops, site visits, and real-world projects to give you experience that mirrors industry practice.

Experiential learning includes:

• Practical Workshops & Labs: Hands-on sessions in building inspection, defect diagnosis, and materials testing using professional equipment and tools.

• Specialist Software: Training in industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, Revit, CostX, and digital survey tools for building assessment and project management.

• Group Projects & Collaborative Work: Team-based assignments simulating real surveying projects, fostering problem-solving, communication, and project management skills.

• Field Trips & Site Visits: Visits to residential, commercial, and historical buildings to apply surveying techniques and observe maintenance, construction, and refurbishment practices.

• Internships & Industry Placements: Opportunities for work experience with surveying consultancies, property developers, and construction companies.

• Libraries & Digital Resources: Access to the University’s extensive libraries, online databases, and technical resources for research and professional reference.

• Research & Innovation Institutes: Engagement with the School of the Built Environment research initiatives, focusing on sustainability, building performance, and innovation in property management.

• Dedicated Facilities: Fully equipped computer labs, surveying equipment, and digital modeling software for practical assignments and project simulations.

Graduates from the BSc Building Surveying program are trained to assess, manage, and maintain the built environment, ensuring buildings are safe, efficient, and fit for purpose. Typical career paths include Building Surveyor, Facilities Manager, Project Manager, and Property Consultant:

• University Services for Employment: Reading’s Careers, Placement and Experience Service supports students with work placements, CV and interview preparation, portfolio development, and networking with leading surveying and construction firms.

• Employment Stats & Salary Figures: Building surveying graduates have strong employability, with starting salaries in the UK typically £25,000–£32,000, increasing as experience and professional qualifications are gained.

• University–Industry Partnerships: The program collaborates with firms such as RICS-accredited practices, Turner & Townsend, and Mace, offering live projects, internships, and mentoring from industry experts.

• Long-term Accreditation Value: The degree is fully accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), supporting progression toward chartered status and international recognition.

• Graduation Outcomes: Students graduate with practical experience, a professional portfolio, and the technical and management skills required for careers in building surveying and property management.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can continue to postgraduate programs such as MSc Construction Project Management, MSc Commercial Management in Construction, or specialise in sustainable building practices, facilities management, or real estate development, enhancing both expertise and professional opportunities.