Construction Management

BSc (Hons)

Intermediate award(s): CertHE, DipHE
Part-Time

Course Overview

The key role that the construction industry now plays in the UK economy makes this not only a highly relevant course of study and potentially a very rewarding one too.

This degree covers not only the technical elements of construction, but will also give you a good grounding in the essential economic and legal aspects. It is also possible to take modules which build upon your existing experience. The Department enjoys close links with industry and this helps to ensure that the skills you will take away when you graduate will be well aligned with the needs of employers.

The key themes of building technology and the application of management run through the course. You will learn about domestic, industrial/commercial and modern methods of construction. Resource and financial management are integrated into the curriculum to provide a work-related qualification.

This course is fully accredited by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).

The specific aims of this course are:
  • to provide you with the language, knowledge, understanding and practical skills demanded by their mode of employment in the process of producing buildings;
  • to enable you to recognise, understand and apply sound building technology principles;
  • to develop your ability to communicate through a range of processes your understanding of how managers have influenced building processes in a historical economic context;
  • for you to be able to demonstrate knowledge of health and safety legislation applicable to the construction industry;
  • to enable you to select and employ appropriate techniques and processes to aid the administration of projects;
  • to develop your ability to recognise the moral and ethical issues of construction, sustainability, the environment, scientific enquiry, experimentation and professional responsibility;
  • to develop your understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of construction, and of the skills required to work in non-adversarial integrated teams with other professionals in construction;
  • to give you a sense of enquiry and reflective self-analysis to serve as a basis for continuing professional development;
  • to enable you to seek and solve complex technical, economic and organisational problems in the context of Construction Management and the built environment as a whole;
  • to enable you to interpret and synthesise information from a range of sources thus demonstrating a capacity for conceptual, critical and independent thinking, using appropriate methodology and techniques;
  • for you to be able to analyse and critically appraise management thinking in a construction context.

Additional course information

This course provides a broad overview of the management of the construction process and the management of the building business. It develops your understanding of the technical aspects of buildings and their use. Through the range of modules on offer, you will gain a good insight into the various aspects of construction management which considers physical, human and financial resources, contract law and domestic, industrial and commercial construction.

Upon completion of this course you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
  • the functions and use of basic building components and discuss the properties of the materials from which they are made;
  • integrating basic scientific principles in the context of the built environment related to the role of the construction manager;
  • the elements of the construction process and the nature and extent of the construction industry and how the construction manager interfaces with other professionals;
  • domestic, industrial and commercial construction;
  • the hazards encountered on a typical construction site and demonstrate a general awareness of the legislation surrounding health and safety in the construction industry;
  • the design and use of sustainable construction including the environmental impact of buildings;
  • designing, implementing and managing appropriate organisational and management systems to suit particular construction projects and developments;
  • how to solve technical, economic, legal and organisational problems in the context of construction management;
  • how to demonstrate a critical approach to project and site management skills through team work and continuous improvement;
  • evaluating current construction issues and practices;
  • testing academic and practical ideas and techniques in the management of the construction process;
  • an evaluative approach to the study of the construction management and to show its integration within the total building process;
  • how to analyse and interpret data and present quantitative and qualitative information, together with analysis, argument and commentary, in a form appropriate to the intended audience: using appropriate quantitative techniques, relevant IT software and media;
  • applying aspects of scientific, social, environmental, ethical and health and safety of the built environment to construction related issues;
  • becoming a reflective learner and to self-appraise situations and yourself.

Julie Mortimer

BSc.(Hons) Construction Management
Image of Julie Mortimer

“The course has mostly definitely been one of the most rewarding things I have ever undertaken. I thought as part-time student I would feel very much on the outside of University life, but due to the huge effort of staff, I have not felt this at all. I would recommend this course because learning the discipline and skills of studying is so rewarding and Anglia Ruskin really do support part-time students, understanding that they have other commitments that puts different pressures upon their studying. Never have I been made to feel just another number! At times when I have struggled with the workload, there has always been support and encouragement. Staff respond quickly to enquiries, which is so important when you only attend the campus one day a week.

I wouldn't have my current job if I had not been undertaking my studies. My current employers' were looking to add Project Management to their core disciplines and having completed some work with them in another capacity, they approached me about joining their company. They were particularly looking for a person with this qualification.

”

Core modules
  • An Introduction to Technology and Design

    This module is designed for students of construction, surveying and architecture with little and/or no prior knowledge of building construction, services and material properties. Students will learn the common materials and methods of construction of both new and traditional housing, by considering in turn each of the main elements of the buildings' structure. They will also study the requirements of the internal environment, so as to understand how services installations contribute to user comfort. Other basic aspects such as the personnel involved, health and safety requirements and specialised terminology will be illustrated as appropriate to support this. The module is also designed to provide an insight into the behaviour and properties for a variety of materials commonly used in the construction of buildings and civil engineering projects. The behavioural properties and performance of these materials will be explored using basic scientific principles in order to develop the students' ability to make informed choices. Students will also gain an appreciation of the role of the designer in the construction process and have an understanding of the design process. An integrated learning system comprising course text book, weekly videos, and workbooks for students' home study, are used together with formal lectures and group tutorials. Students will also undertake a series of calculations culminating in a design exercise.

  • Learning and Practical Skills Development

    Foundation Degree Students entering Higher Education will need specific study skills to enable them to maximise their learning potential and take advantage of opportunities available both in the academic setting and the workplace. The module is intended to be both preparatory and supportive building a strong foundation for learning and later development. Students will gain an appreciation of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills for research, information management and presentation purposes. It encourages students to use contemporary ICT methods for research and for the production and presentation of reports, in a style suitable both for their university coursework requirements and in a commercial environment. The module will enable students to gain experience in applying the elementary surveying techniques of levelling and linear measurement, both for detail acquisition and setting out. The relevant mathematical skills will be introduced and developed contextually. Final survey drawings will be produced and annotated. Students will be introduced to basic 2D drafting techniques using a powerful set of tools. Skills in this medium are highly sought after in the construction industry. Students will develop and maintain a reflective learning log to support this module and their continuing studies, the reflective log to be used as the basis of their PDP submission.

  • The Built Environment Work Sector

    This module is intended to support the development of understanding of the nature of the work sector in the broadest sense including the environments in which the sector operates, its performance within these contexts and factors that influence the operation of organisations. Students will cover the generic work together as a whole group focusing on the role of the professions in the built environment sector and opportunities for employment and career progression. The students will then split into different subject specialisms. Students will examine man in his environment and his attempts to control the development of society politically, socially and economically through the medium of land use in both organic and planned terms from earliest civilisation to the present day. Multicultural perspectives and issues within Built Environment are discussed. The module introduces the student to the complications of the present day structure of the building and development industry including the roles of the leading participants and the development of the organisation by examining the historic growth of the systems up to the present day situation.

  • Construction Economics

    Students will also gain an understanding of basic microeconomic and macroeconomic principles and how they impact on firms in the Built Environment. This allows students to develop an appreciation of the importance of the economy on the industry in which their careers are located. The learning experience combines formal lectures with workshops and tutorial discussion to provide a foundation of understanding. Students are also expected to read not only text material but also web-based source material to gain an appreciation of current issues and debates. Students should be able to demonstrate in their assessment that they have undertaken their own research following guidance from the module leader.

  • Introduction to Civil Law and Legislation

    This module introduces surveying and real estate students to the structure and processes of the English legal system, to the sources of the law, and to those basic legal concepts and skills which such students need to address more detailed legal issues in later modules. It is the essential foundation to the development of the legal skills necessary in the provision of sound advice to clients in a student's professional career. The module will focus in particular on the English Civil Law, as this is the branch of the law most relevant to students both in subsequent law modules and in professional careers after completing the surveying degree course. However, certain Criminal Law topics will be included where these are necessary to understand or draw a distinction between processes in the two branches of the law. The essential purpose of this module is to benefit students who may not have had the opportunity to study law previously. It will provide guidance to students on information, materials and sources to equip them with a basic understanding of the nature and structure of the English legal system, Parliament and law making, the court structure and precedent, legislation and case law, and legal terms and language. Students will be guided to legal sources and materials, and will be taught how to research law appropriate to their studies, using both published references and internet resources. A key aim of the module is to develop the students research skills, specifically in the field of legal issues affecting their work, together with their ability to analyse research material, and to marshal material and facts into cogent advice and reports. Whilst this introductory module will focus on the English law, it will provide an insight into the growing importance of the European context affecting English law

  • Site Management and Safety

    The module provides course members with the opportunity to examine health and safety issues within the construction industry and their integration throughout the processes of design, tender award and construction. The roles of all parties involved will be explored from both moral and legal viewpoints. Past and current attitudes will be discussed. Students will consider the safety record within the construction industry and identify health and safety legislation aimed at reducing accident rates. The process of hazard identification and risk assessment will be explained and students will produce method statements following on from their risk assessments. Safe systems of work will be identified enabling the student to relate theory and practice.

  • Environmental Services and Construction Technology

    This module has been designed to give the students an insight into the scientific basis of the environmental performance and construction of buildings and their services. The main focus is on the introduction of modelling tools that can be used to simulate a building's performance and its affect on the environment. The main approach adopted is that of a scientific one, focusing on the analysis of a problem or set of problems, followed by the synthesis of a solution. Considerable emphasis is placed on the use of environmental criteria to assess a building's thermal, visual and aural performance. A number of scientific methods are explored and there will be a limited amount of practical experiment-based work. A number of technical solutions will be explored for lighting, heating, ventilation and air conditioning a building. The passive design features of a building are explored. This second level module is also designed to give students a broad understanding of the way we build our commercial and industrial buildings. It is intended to lead on from the study of domestic construction to considering the functional requirements of single-storey industrial sheds and multi-storey framed structures in concrete and steel. In addition, the affects on the construction process of the latest legislation in relation to fire and health & safety are examined. A great deal of guidance is give to students on skill development. The module is delivered by blended learning via WebCT, so good access to the internet is essential. The assessment is by a series of online multi-choice questions and a number of reports on the performance of buildings.

  • Construction Resource Management

    Module is designed to allow students to study and acquire the theories, skills and competencies applicable to identify and manage the resources required to operate a construction organisation and in particular the development process. Students will develop a number of key management skills which enable efficient project and organisational situations to be changed. Students will be expected to appreciate and understand how the macro economic environment affects the way managers design micro economic systems and from this manage resources. Systems theory is used to help students understand how organisations function and is used to support organisational design decision making. Supply chain management is examined in some detail with case studies from other industries used as a focus for improving approaches adopted in construction. A broad understanding of financial management, in a construction context is developed. The way in which financial resources are measured, administered and reconciled in a systematic fashion will be studied by students. Students will be given the opportunity to evaluate the significance of how the human resource is procured, retained and motivated. An appreciation of the relative merits/demerits of the construction industry when compared to other industries will be developed with particular emphasis on employment and motivation.

  • Measurement and Analysis of Prices

    This module seeks to develop skills in interpreting drawn and written information, and of presenting that material in quantified descriptive form to facilitate the analytical processes necessary for accurately assessing the cost of construction works. The content of the module will cover the skills and competencies necessary for the measurement of selected key elements of domestic and medium sized commercial buildings, enhancing students' understanding of the functions and processes of the estimator and quantity surveying practitioners. Students will be expected to interpret and apply the principles and rules of the Standard Method of Measurement of Building Works (currently SMM7), and to produce measured dimensions and quantities using conventions and processes recognised in the surveying profession. The measuring and quantitative skills developed by students in this module will be in the context of the essential requirement for clarity of measured information, ensuring this is understandable to estimators and quantity surveyors preparing estimates and prices for construction work. Students will therefore study the principles and methodology in the computation and adjustment of elemental unit rates for individual items of work, utilising the measurements produced in the module as far as possible. Students will examine and distinguish between the various forms of measured data and estimating and tender documentation, and to understand and process quantitative and data and constants using mathematical models to prepare clear, accurate examples of measurements and prices.

  • Project Administration

    This module is designed for construction students with a general background in construction subjects and who wish to learn how to manage and administer a building contract from a legal and economic standpoint. Students will learn how contracts are constructed, be able to interpret their contents and manage the more routine legal and financial aspects through the completion of a contract and its final account. Students will learn through problem solving and case study activity that simulates a live project and the likely circumstances that arise. It is a module which has direct application to practice and will be of value in terms of the student employability.

  • Project Evaluation and Development

    The module provides the student with the opportunity to explore the various issues that need to be evaluated when considering a building development from inception until final completion and retention and / or disposal of the building. The context and content of this module integrates knowledge and skills obtained from previous management and design modules. It examines them in a holistic manner and explores their complex inter-relationships. Issues related to the client, the site, planning, financial appraisal, design technology, legal, health and safety and environment will all be examined within a theoretical and practical framework. The module develops the student's ability to comprehend the totality and implications of the development process and to make reasoned value judgements as to its potential feasibility. This is achieved by a detailed examination of local planning policies for the site coupled with a financial analysis of the proposed scheme by use of traditional and modern forms of valuation techniques. The module also focuses on project appraisal, pre construction processes, construction and post construction processes, marketing disposal and evaluation. The module is project based with studio teaching which is undertaken by various strategies such as formal group lectures, group seminars and individual tutorials. Site visits are arranged where appropriate to underpin student knowledge and understanding of practical issues. Joint staff and student criticisms and presentations occur throughout the delivery.

  • The Construction Business

    This module is designed to enable students to acquire the knowledge and competencies to manage a building organisation in a highly volatile economic environment. Students will use a computer simulation package which allows them to run a construction business in teams. The key aim of studies in this module will be to develop an understanding of how building organisations are managed financially in line with a set of broad business objectives. It will be important to acquire a range of analytical skills which enable you to measure company performance from a number of standpoints and from such measurements be in a position to be critical of the way a company has performed with reference to its desired objectives and set against a prevailing economic climate. Ancillary to this aim will be the acquisition of a critical awareness of the way in which organisations function within an environment made up of threats, opportunities and constraints. You will need to study Financial Management in some depth to gain an understanding of how financial data is converted into usable information identifying historical performance which can be interpreted as part of a manager's decision making armoury. The role of the management accountant will be explored and contrasted with that of the financial accountant. An important objective here will be to examine how pro-active financial management can be practiced rather than merely reacting to the whims of the market place. Work in this module will rely and reflect upon work already carried out in earlier modules, in particular, Construction Resource Management.

  • Construction Technology and Innovation

    This module has been designed for stage 3 students, so as to capitalise on previous technology modules. It will consist of a series of lectures together with structured tutorial sessions. The lectures will focus on a particular topic whist the tutorial sessions will be used to allow the students to work in small groups. These tutorial meetings will be formally conducted within accepted procedures, and their content will be properly recorded in minutes. In the lecture sessions the focus will be on current construction issues and trends of a technological nature. Methods of special construction will be critically reviewed. The module culminates in a formal presentation, during which the students are encouraged to use a variety of illustrative methods to support their work. This is backed up by written proposals containing elements of both group and individual work.

  • Project Management

    This module is designed to develop the students' knowledge of basic management theories, and to demonstrate their relevance and application in the planning, organisation and control of construction projects. Students will be encouraged to research appropriate theories, skills and competencies related to the life cycle of a project from the client's conceptual vision, through the project identification and definition stages, applying appropriate project implementation, execution and control processes to effect successful closure of a project. The module aims to change the students vision from a contract administration viewpoint to the broader perspective required in the project management approach. For many students this will involve standing back from their everyday role on a project, and to consider the holistic integrated nature of the project management role on a construction project. Thus, whilst recognising the value of many of the skills acquired by students in the contract administration modules, the module will develop the specialist techniques which question the usual functional and organisational boundaries. Students will be encouraged to develop an appreciation of the strategic relevance of project management, and the unique features of project management which distinguish it from other forms of management. Students will be required to research and develop operational techniques used in the planning, scheduling and control of projects to demonstrate that they understand the processes and mechanisms necessary to ensure the effective delivery of the project objectives.

  • Dissertation/Major Project

    This module enables students to carry out an original piece of research which will require a literature review of current knowledge in the chosen topic area, the formulation of a research question and the collection of primary data (by case study, interview or questionnaire, for example) in order to answer the research question. The research will be undertaken under the supervision of an academic member of staff but the early part of the module is supported by classroom sessions to explain the processes of reviewing literature, formulating a research question, and the collection and the evaluation of primary data. A minimum number of four supervision tutorials will take place during the academic year in which the module is studied. The dissertation will not only present the literature review and results of the research but will also describe and reflect upon the research process. Advice will be given on choosing a research topic in a briefing session delivered towards the end of the academic year in which the student undertakes their dissertation. Students will also identify their achievements and skills and provide a plan for progression.

  • Practice Based Learning

    This module relates to students following Built Environment programmes offered by the department. Designed to cover a minimum learning period of six months.This module is designed to give the students an opportunity to analyse and evaluate industrial organisational structures, industrial roles and functions, and industrial self- awareness. It covers generally human relationships in industry, team relationships, problem evaluations and analysis and evaluation of a particular aspect of industry. The underpinning aim of work in this module is to use the academic skills developed during periods in university to support the learning, which will take place during your work with an employer. In order to support the recording and widening of skills development the RAPID (Recording Achievement for Professional and Individual Development) system developed by Loughborough University will be employed. Three phases of skills development will be followed. At the outset a skills development audit will be carried out by the student. This will be followed by a selected skills development phase. Finally the student will produce a 'future self-development plan.' The work based learning environment will enable a wide range of learning opportunities to be explored. In particular students will develop a range of personal, professional and project skills. Students will also be able to examine in detail the links between academic theory and practical reality. The work build experience will provide a good basis to reflect upon professional roles and career development opportunities.

  • Environmental Management (for the Construction Industry)

    The growth in environmental awareness, at all levels from local to international, over recent decades is introduced and considered in the context of the construction industry. Legislation and other pressures for the protection of the environment are considered, including pollution control and environmental impact assessment. The advantages and disadvantages of formal and informal environmental management systems are examined. Design implications of concepts such as life cycle analysis are considered. It is intended that the student should, by the end of the module, look at environmental management, not as a burden, but as a fundamental part of the efficient management of the construction industry. Such an outlook is likely to enable the student to guide their present or future employers towards a sustainable future.

Assessment

Assessment is via a mix of examination, project work, presentations, role play, case studies, reports and workplace assessment.

Facilities

Specialist management software for project planning and business organisation and finance. Laboratory facilities in geotechnics, hydraulics, structures, engineering materials and concrete testing.

Simon Grundy

BSc Construction Management
Image of Simon Grundy

“I was attracted by the combination of technical construction knowledge and the planning and management that would be transferable to a range of jobs. I would recommend this course because it provides the skills required in a range of jobs, not just construction, it provides wider technical knowledge and encouraged me to think through problems or issues and resolve them in a suitable logical manner. The tutors all seem to keep strong links in the industry leading to topical and current issues being discussed and used in the teaching.

The new Chelmsford campus is pleasant study environment with good facilities, and this course has been superb at developing my study skills, my technical knowledge, my communication skills and has met all the expectations I have for degree education.

”

Allen Beckett

Graduated 2010

“I enjoyed the design and technology elements and group project work. My course prepared me for employment, and was very focussed on the needs of employers. Personal career options include project manager, or postgraduate study.
”

Links with industry and professional recognition

This degree is fully accredited by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) as meeting the academic base for full membership. Anglia Ruskin is an accredited centre for CIOB programmes.

Associated careers

These courses prepare you for a broad range of careers related to building, civil engineering, the built environment and the support of building users. Possible jobs include the management of new building projects providing specialist professional services as a member of the design or production team, or the management of facilities in terms of existing building stock. You could be based on site or work in the office.

As one of the UK's largest industries, construction offers challenging and stimulating career opportunities for men and women. The demand for graduates outstrips supply and is likely to continue to do so well into the future.
UCAS Tariff points: 240
Additional Requirements: GCSE(s) Required: 4 GCSEs grade C or above. GCSE grade C or above in English language and mathematics or equivalent level 2 qualifications.
Entry requirements listed are for September 2013 entry. Entry requirements for other intakes may differ.

How to apply

Location

Duration

5-6 years

Teaching times*

Mon 9.00am-4.00pm

Available starts

September, February, May

Student finance

Open Day

Saturday 22 June
Undergraduate Open Day

Faculty

Science & Technology

Department

Engineering and the Built Environment

Contact us

UK and EU applicants:International applicants:

 

*Teaching days and times are for guidance only and are subject to change each academic year. We advise all applicants to wait until they are in receipt of their timetable before making arrangements around their course times.

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