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Quantity Surveying
Bachelor of Science
Course Details
Course Code | SG_JQUAN_J07 |
---|---|
Level | 7 |
Duration | 2 years |
Credits | 60 |
Method of Delivery | Online |
Campus Locations | Sligo |
Mode of Delivery | Part Time |
Course Overview
This add-on programme offers graduates a broad skills base for the specialised profession of quantity surveying. The need for quantity surveyors is vital for the efficient cost management of construction projects. The evolving international economic climate means the role of the quantity surveyor is in high demand as both public and private clients are pursuing the agenda of obtaining value for money and greater cost certainty in all construction activities.
On completion of this add-on programme graduates will be prepared for the current and future role of the quantity surveying profession. The course utilises the latest technology and software used in the construction industry and we work very closely with employers, practitioners and professional organisations to ensure that our course reflects the current needs of the work place.
Programme Structure
The BSc in Quantity Surveying is a degree programme offered via online distance learning over a period of 2 years on a part-time basis. This add-on programme consists of twelve subject modules – three per semester and learners may take as few modules as they wish and complete the programme over a number of years to suit their own circumstances. Online lectures, programme materials, innovative learning, web-links and assessments will be uploaded to a Moodle course management system. The programme will provide students with the following key skills:
- Measurement in accordance with the agreed method of measurement.
- Preparation of building estimates, cost plans and bills of quantities using current software.
- Construction technology skills, including the growing environmental, sustainability, conservation and service areas.
- Ability to Interpret the standard forms of building contracts and construction law.
- Research methods and skills.
Accreditation
The programme is fully accredited by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) which provides graduates with an opportunity to achieve full chartered status.
Course Details
Year 1
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Measurement of Industrial BuildingsAnalysis, description and measurement in accordance with ARM of various types of substructures (strip, raft, ground beam/pad in grid formation), steel reinforcement schedules, framed building (concrete, steel, timber), suspended flooring and mezzanine arrangements (timber, concrete, steel/metal), cladding systems, roofing to 'large' spans (industrial/factory buildings), specialist floor finishes for industrial situations, 'fit-out', metalwork. Measurement software will be an essential element of the learning practice in this module. Learning Outcomes 1. Analyse, describe and measure various types of substructures (strip, raft, ground beam/pad in grid formation) in accordance with ARM 2. Assess steel reinforcement schedules, know the relevance of the information contained therein, describeand measurethe content in accordance with ARM 3. Categorise, describe and measure various types of framed construction(in-situ and precast concrete, steel, timber) together with suspended mezzanine and regular flooring (concrete, steel/metal, timber) – describe and measure in accordance with ARM 4. Evaluate, describe and measure metalcladding and roofing systems (roofing tolarge spans) as per ARM 5. Identify, schedule, describe and measure as per ARM – industrial floor finishes;’fit-out’ of industrial space; metalwork (steps, stairs, ladders, railings, etc.) |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Industrial Buildings – Construction TechnologyThe module will introduce students to multi-storey and long-span industrial buildings and the identification of project-specific solutions. The student will examine and learn about the various forms of substructure common to these types of buildings. They will take the building out of the ground through the use of differing framed construction methods, continuing with various types of internal flooring systems. The learner will continue up the building and be introduced to the many forms of roofing and cladding utilised in the construction of industrial buildings and how different materials, systems and legislation are used to provide fire protection to these structures. Students will also learn how technology can influence the comfort of humans within the built environment, through the application of environmental science. Learners will also develop an understanding of the application of Passive House Design concepts for Non-Domestic Buildings. The learner will recognise how different end users affect the loading on building elements. The student will be in a position to provide a research report which demonstrates the student's ability to carry out research and critically evaluate strategies, trends and emerging issues and technologies associated with high-rise constriction projects. All this will take into account current building and health and safety legislation. Learning Outcomes 1. Develop and demonstrate their understanding of the design and construction methods relating to Industrial buildings. 2. Differentiate between, then compare and contrast, construction details in relation to the functional requirements of industrial buildings. 3. Identify and distinguish between the different materials and systems used to provide fire protection in multi storey buildings. 4. Demonstrate a knowledge of, formulate and provide advice on; sub-structures, cladding, internal flooring and roofs for industrial buildings. 5. Compare and contrast the different materials; steel, concrete, timber and how they are used in industrial frames. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Cost PlanningThis module will enable the student to practically apply cost planning techniques from inception to contract signing and to maintain value for money during the design stage of an individual project. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify the factors that influence the cost of buildings 2. Have an awareness of how design decisions have an impact on construction costs 3. Discuss the techniques and stages of pre-contact cost planning 4. Investigate the benefits of Life Cycle Costing and Value Engineering 5. Employ sources of cost data for application to current developments |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Private Sector Standard Form of Construction ContractsAnalysis of Standard Form of Contract and completion of 'Articles of Agreement' and 'Appendix' sections, study of rights/duties/responsibilities of all associated with the contract, consideration of points of particular relevance to those responsible to Client for management of contract (instructions, variations, insurances, payments, retention, damages, specialist work, time, disputes, determination). Learning Outcomes 1. Analyse the RIAI Standard Form of Contract – the constituent parts, the conditions in general 2. Manage the completion of the Articles of Agreement and Appendix parts of the contract 3. Compare and contrast the rights and duties of the parties to and associated with the contract 4. Illustrate a knowledge of the implementation of the conditions of contract – instructions, variations, insurances, payments, retention, damages, specialist work, time, disputes, determination 5. Manage the preparation of documentation appropriate to contract management/administration – instructions, variation orders, interim claims, interim valuations |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Programming and Planning TheoryThe aim of this module is to provide learners with an awareness of the various principles, techniques and issues that relate to the programming and planning of construction projects. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the need for pre and post contract planning and programming techniques. 2. Identify, analyse and compare different planning techniques. 3. Outline the principles of how a programme is affected by change. 4. Demonstratethe need for good programming when forecasting accurately materials, man-power, machinery and money. 5. Value the use of planning and programming when forecasting expenditure. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Cost ControlThis module implements the practicalities of effective cost control procedures during the post contract phase of a construction project. The module is designed from the perspective of both consultant quantity surveyors and contractor's quantity surveyor/cost managers. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe effective post-contract cost control techniques 2. Identify the principles of controlling and reporting on costs 3. Present variations, interim valuations and final accounts 4. Examine strategies and procedures to control predicted expenditure in line with the contract sum 5. Prepare and assess loss and expense/delay and disruption claims |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Measurement of Commercial BuildingsAnalysis, description and measurement of 'Commercial Buildings' – timber ('glulam', 'cross lamination', 'panelised'); cladding types (stone, timber, rendered); curtain walling,; cladding options (stone, timber, rendered, etc.); flat roof structures/parapets/roof drainage/roof membranes/rooflights; suspended ceilings and raised access floors; lifts and liftshafts; stairs (in-situ/precast concrete, steel and composite structures, stairs completions and finishes; roof covering systems; finishes, decoration, fittings, 'fit-out'. Measurement software will be an essential element of the learning practice in this module. Learning Outcomes 1. Analyse, describe and measure timber construction systems (‘glulam’, ‘cross-lamination’, ‘panelised’) 2. Identify differing options with respect to external cladding systems (stone, timber, rendered, slate/tile, etc.) and curtain walling, describe and measure all 3. Evaluate, describe and measure flat roofsystems,parapets,roof drainage,roof membranes,insulation, rooflights, trims, flashings 4. Assess, schedule, describe and measure – suspended ceilings, raised access floors, finishes, decoration, fittings, ‘fit-out’ 5. Determine requirements regarding vertical access – stairs (in-situ/precast concrete, steel, composite) and all associated finishes and completions; lift shaftconstruction and completion – categorise, describe and measure in accordance with ARM |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Construction Programme SoftwareThe aim of this module is to provide learners with the skills necessary to prepare, assess, interpret and report on programmes for construction projects using standard industry software. Learning Outcomes 1. Develop a construction programme using standard industry software. 2. Formulate and report on a construction project programme using planning techniques. 3. Prepare financial forecast expenditure reports using planning techniques. 4. Calculate a critical path network analysis to determine the longest path. 5. Identify the impact of contractual provisions on the effective planning of projects. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
QS Dispute ManagementThe aim of this module is to provide students a hands-on understanding in dispute management in the construction industry. Through experience-based learning in role plays and formal lectures, learners will develop skills in dispute mitigation and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) processes. Learning Outcomes 1. Discriminate between and appraise various methods of dispute resolution available in construction contracts. 2. Review examples of the legal considerations required in decision making in respect of ADR in the construction industry. 3. Apply techniques in relation to the preparation and appraisal of contractual claims. 4. Examine the legislative and procedural responsibilities of various parties in the construction process. 5. Prepare and present reports on dispute resolution exercises. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Commercial Buildings – Construction TechnologyThis module aims at providing the learner with an understanding of the elements involved in the construction of commercial, multi-storey buildings, paying particular attention to modern methods, such as; Lean Construction, Lean Project Delivery, Modular Construction, Offsite Construction, Just in Time deliveries etc. The student will learn about and report on Construction Elements, such as; Cladding types, Gluelam beams, Internal wall systems, Lift shafts, Parapets, Raised access floors, Roof lights, Stairs (Precast / in-situ, completions and finishes), Suspended ceilings etc. They will compliment this with; Multi storey Frames, Roofing Systems and finishes, decoration, fittings and fit -out. The learner will explore Sustainable Construction and the environmental impact of design and development, examining how the implementation of Environmental Science during these phases provides an an understanding of the underlying principles and the influencing factors associated with the design decision. This module further aims to develop and deepen the learner's understanding of the building services elements and building components which combine to complete an efficient and functioning building. This includes an understanding of the relationship between the architectural and civil engineering disciplines and the building services discipline. Learning Outcomes 1. Examine and demonstrate a knowledge of construction elements across a range of commercial, industrial buildings and multi-storey buildings. 2. Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of ;Finishes, Decoration, fittings and fit -out. 3. Identify, examine, then compare and contrast traditional and modern construction methods, with respect to Modular Construction, Offsite Construction, Just in Time deliveries and construction sustainability. 4. Recognise the need for and assess the technologies and systems involved in multi storey Frames, structural glazing, non-metal cladding options and the various roofing system 5. Undertake research and report on how sustainable construction is affected, the environmental impact of differing construction elements and roofing systems, examining the factors that influence their inclusion in commercial and multi-storey buildings. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Work PlacementThe purpose of this module is that the student will actively seek and undertake relevant work place engagement and gain Quantity Surveying professional experience with either a contracting organisation or professional practice for a minimum period of 3 months. The work-placement component is an integral part of the academic programme. The placement will offer the student the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills gained throughout the course in a relevant work-place setting. If the student cannot attain work place engagement, the student will carry out a Project over the 3 month period. For the first eight weeks of this module, the student will learn how to prepare a professional curriculum vitae, application letter and learn interview techniques by taking part in practical mock interviews. Learning Outcomes 1. Prepare a curriculum vitae and application letter 2. Actively seek relevant employment and attend interview 3. Apply the practical skills acquired on the academic programme within the workplace 4. Work as a member of a team and developappropriate communicationand interpersonal skills 5. Utilise new skills learned during the three months work placement in accordance with the Work Placement Procedural Document |
10 | Elective |
2 |
ProjectThe purpose of this module is for the student to carry out a quantity surveying related project to assess the students knowledge of pre and post contract quantity surveying duties in both a contracting organisation and a professional practice. This module is for Online students and for Full Time students who were not able to get work placement as their first option. Learning Outcomes 1. Compile the measurement of a project using computer software 2. Estimate the cost of a projectusing computer software and develop a tender assessment report and recommendation 3. Assess variations and claims and make a determination 4. Develop interim payment applications and payment certificates 5. Compile a final account report comparing tender costs against final out turn costs |
10 | Elective |
Recommended Study Hours per week
Examination and Assessment
On-Campus Attendance Requirement
Progression
You may wish to continue your studies by enrolling on the following on-line programmes:BSc (Hons) in Quantity Surveying – This two-year, part-time, Level 8 add-on programme is fully accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) / Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI). Graduates also have the opportunity to progress to a one-year add-on degree in Construction Project Management.
Download a prospectus
Entry Requirements
The BSc Quantity Surveying has a minimum entry requirement of a Level 6 qualification or international equivalent in Quantity Surveying or a related discipline. This programme is an online add-on programme i.e. it is the final year of our Level 7 full time programme split over two years on a part time basis.
Applicants with other Level 6 qualifications and a number of years relevant work experience in construction estimating / cost management may also be considered through ATU Sligo’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process. RPL is a process that may allow you to gain admission to a programme based on demonstrated learning that you may have achieved through another programme of study or through your work and career. Further information is available through www.atu.ie/recognition-of-prior-learning which our dedicated RPL portal or by contacting our admissions team at admissions.sligo@atu.ie
Careers
Graduates of this programme will be able to use the experience and knowledge gained to obtain employment in a wide variety of areas such as Site Surveyors, Estimators, Site Clerks, Loss Adjusters, Materials Managers, Sales Representatives and Quantity Surveying Technicians with Contractors, Sub-Contractors, Consultants, Local Authorities, Insurance Firms and Materials Suppliers.
Further Information
Who Should Apply?
This programme is designed for professionals in the construction sector who already have a Level 6 qualification but want to upskill to a Level 7 degree on a part-time, flexible basis.