The BSc Quantity Surveying at the University of Reading equips students with the skills to manage construction costs, contracts, and project finances effectively. It’s ideal for students interested in the business and management side of construction, combining technical knowledge with commercial and legal understanding.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Quantity Surveying
Students begin by building essential knowledge in construction, economics, and measurement techniques. Core modules such as Introduction to Quantity Surveying, Construction Technology, and Construction Economics provide the foundational skills needed for cost management and project assessment.
Year 2 – Developing Professional and Technical Skills
The second year focuses on applying surveying principles to real-world projects. Modules like Measurement and Estimating, Construction Law, and Project Management equip students with practical skills in cost planning, contract administration, and risk management.
Year 3 – Advanced Practice and Professional Preparation
In the final year, students refine their expertise in managing complex construction projects. Modules such as Advanced Quantity Surveying, Construction Contracts and Dispute Resolution, and Professional Practice prepare graduates for careers in commercial management, cost consultancy, and construction leadership roles.
Focus Areas
Cost management, project planning, construction law, contract administration, risk management.
Learning Outcomes
Graduates will be able to measure and value construction works, manage project budgets, apply legal and contractual knowledge, and communicate effectively with clients and construction teams.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
The program is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), providing a route to professional qualification.
Reputation (Employability Rankings)
The University of Reading is highly regarded for its construction and built environment programs, offering strong industry links and excellent graduate employability.
At the University of Reading, the BSc Quantity Surveying program equips students with practical skills in cost management, construction economics, and project delivery. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through case studies, industry-standard software, and real-world projects, preparing you to manage budgets, contracts, and resources in construction and architectural projects. You’ll gain experience in teamwork, professional communication, and problem-solving, supported by dedicated facilities and industry links.
Experiential learning includes:
Practical Workshops & Labs: Interactive sessions focused on measurement, cost estimation, and construction management, using industry-standard tools and materials.
Specialist Software: Training in software such as CostX, AutoCAD, Revit, and Microsoft Project for estimating, budgeting, and project planning.
Group Projects & Collaborative Work: Team-based assignments simulating real-world project management scenarios and client interactions.
Field Trips & Site Visits: Visits to live construction sites, commercial developments, and architectural projects to understand cost implications and project management in practice.
Internships & Industry Placements: Support for securing placements with construction companies, consultancy firms, and property developers for hands-on professional experience.
Libraries & Digital Resources: Access to the University’s libraries, online databases, and digital tools for research, project data, and industry reference materials.
Research & Innovation Institutes: Opportunities to engage with the School of the Built Environment research initiatives, focusing on construction economics, sustainability, and project innovation.
Dedicated Facilities: Fully equipped computer labs and study spaces with software for cost analysis, quantity surveying, and project management simulations.
Graduates from the BSc Quantity Surveying program are prepared to manage construction costs and contracts efficiently, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget. Typical career paths include Quantity Surveyor, Cost Consultant, Project Manager, and Construction Estimator:
University Services for Employment: Reading’s Careers, Placement and Experience Service provides dedicated support for construction and surveying students, including work placements, CV and interview preparation, and connections with top construction firms.
Employment Stats & Salary Figures: Quantity surveying graduates enjoy strong employability, with typical starting salaries in the UK ranging £25,000–£32,000, with potential to rise significantly with experience and professional qualifications.
University–Industry Partnerships: The program has links with leading firms such as RICS-accredited practices, Mace, and Turner & Townsend, offering internships, live projects, and industry mentoring.
Long-term Accreditation Value: The degree is fully accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), enabling graduates to progress toward chartered status internationally.
Graduation Outcomes: Students leave with practical experience, a professional portfolio, and the technical and financial skills needed for a successful career in quantity surveying and construction management.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can pursue postgraduate studies such as MSc Construction Project Management, MSc Commercial Management in Construction, or specialised courses in sustainable construction and real estate, enhancing both career prospects and professional recognition.
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.