This course aims to give learners the skills needed to undertake a major project relevant to their chosen pathway. The major project will assess learner’s ability to apply their knowledge of the sector, use appropriate analytical skills to investigate a sector-related topic and solve complex and interrelated problems. Learners will work in a group to select a topic and submit a project proposition which must be agreed with the project tutor.  Ideally, the project should address such issues as innovation, sustainability, contracts, health, welfare and safety.  However, dependent upon the project proposition, a wide range of relevant subjects are acceptable. The chosen topic must give learners an opportunity to undertake a sustained, rigorous and independent investigation of some aspect of professional practice.

The project must consist of original work in the form of empirical research with an identified need supported by secondary research.  It must be informed by the theoretical knowledge and expertise developed through other courses in the degree programme. Research findings must be presented and interpreted in detail and learners must identify the research outcomes in terms of actual or planned developments and changes.

This course gives learners an understanding of the importance of sustainable construction and the drive for innovation through technological advances in all aspects of the construction industry. The drive for innovation in a changing world makes this course essential for commercial, social and environmental reasons. Learners will apply their understanding of innovative materials, components and building systems to critically review a specific building design proposal in terms of its innovation and sustainability. Learners will examine innovative, sustainable construction options in the context of socially responsible strategies to create a sustainable solution to building infrastructure and performance expectations. This course will require learners to understand CAD/3D modelling using appropriate software. Finally, learners will have the opportunity to develop a proposal and evaluate the performance of this solution, based on parametric modelling. This should extend their understanding of the integration of materials and components into the construction systems needed for sustainable infrastructure and buildings.

This course is designed to explore the theory and practice of leadership and management in a construction context. It will provide learners with the theories, tools and techniques to manage people and activities effectively in a variety of construction industry settings, and to help them to make the most efficient use of resources and information through good leadership and management. It is designed to improve learner’s ability to influence others in order to achieve results and focuses on applied learning, encouraging learners to relate new knowledge and skills to real workplace situations. It addresses the needs of practising or aspiring middle managers who require formal development of leadership and management skills.

The aim of this course is to give learners an understanding of the importance of adopting sound management principles to ensure performance criteria can be met. Learners will gain skills in the use of benchmarking and impact analysis for building asset management and devise strategies to achieve asset management targets. The course introduces the learner to the principles of strategic asset management, condition surveys, impact analysis and benchmarking of assets against known data to determine the cost effectiveness of maintenance or the remedial works necessary for continued use. The need to ensure the best use of assets is a focus for facilities managers and those responsible for the maintenance of property. Without an effective and appropriate level of asset management to prioritise and focus resources that are considered critical to service delivery outcomes, it would be very difficult to optimise the essential contribution that buildings make towards corporate objectives. To develop asset-specific management processes that account for the unique characteristics of each building, including its performance in use, location, maintenance profile, and fitness for purpose.

Learners must choose one of the optional courses to study.

This course will equip learners with the knowledge, skills, and understanding of effective project management techniques and practices within the construction sector. This course aims to develop learners' ability to integrate subject expertise with management skills, enabling them to address cost pressures, enhance efficiency, and contribute to the overall profitability of construction projects. Additionally, learners will explore the role of the project manager and gain practical skills to undertake project management activities effectively. The aim of this course is to give learners an understanding of the techniques and practices required for effective project management in the construction sector. Learners will understand the role of the project manager and gain skills to undertake project management activities for construction projects.

Learners must choose one of the optional courses to study.

The aim of this course is to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory framework that supports sustainable developments. Learners will develop the skills to devise regulatory-compliant strategies, evaluate management practices for construction site operations, and model best-fit solutions for sustainable assets while addressing longer-term legacy issues. Through this course, learners will summarise and apply management strategies for construction site operations that align with regulatory requirements and devise sustainable development proposals based on design concepts, interpreting planning regulations to produce compliant and justified solutions. This course emphasises the integration of sustainable practices with regulatory compliance, equipping learners with the tools to address both immediate and future challenges in construction and sustainable development.

This course gives learners an understanding of the methods used by contractors and consultants in determining the price of a proposed construction project and the subsequent analysis and reporting of this information at tender stage. Learners will calculate realistic cost estimates and evaluate relevant commercial factors in order to produce a tender submission as well as producing a professional tender report. Learners will understand and apply the processes needed for the successful financial management of a construction project through managing and controlling income and expenditure. This course equips learners with advanced financial management skills for the construction sector. By understanding tender pricing, evaluating financial viability, managing cash flow, and implementing cost control measures, learners will develop the ability to oversee and optimise financial processes within construction projects.

The aim of this course is to enable learners to critically design and manage a structured Personal Development Plan (PDP) tailored to their professional goals and career advancement in a complex and dynamic working environment. Learners will develop the ability to set measurable, realistic, and aspirational goals, critically evaluate their progress, and adapt their PDP in response to changing career aspirations and professional opportunities. Through reflective practices, learners will explore their personal strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement, enabling them to make informed decisions about their professional growth. This course highlights the strategic value of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) in maintaining and enhancing professional competencies, staying aligned with evolving industry trends, and securing long-term employability in a competitive market. Learners will integrate CPD activities into their career planning, aligning these with both personal aspirations and organisational needs. Furthermore, the course equips learners with advanced interpersonal and communication skills, including effective team collaboration, negotiation, conflict resolution, and leadership. These skills will prepare learners to foster meaningful professional relationships, drive workplace success, and contribute to high-performing teams in complex organisational environments.