Quantity Surveying
Full-time
With placement
Three year
Four year
September 2025
In a nutshell
Quantity surveyors manage financial aspects of construction, applying cost engineering to realise value, meet budgets and reach deadlines. If you’re looking for a career where you can influence exciting new developments in our cities, our triple-accredited BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying degree course is a route to exciting career prospects, both in the UK and overseas.
Providing a pathway to professional status, our Quantity Surveying degree course will advance your financial, technical and managerial construction related knowledge. Accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (ICES), you’ll be educated to the highest professional standards.
With a focus on your future employability and getting you industry-ready, you will develop a broad spectrum of finance, management, and team working skills. Guided by industry-experienced academic staff, you will study a range of modules that are designed to develop your professional, technical and interpersonal skills, so you are ready to build a rewarding career in the built environment sector when you graduate.
Start your study journey
Register for our next Open Day to learn more about studying Quantity Surveying, explore our facilities and meet the course team
You will:
- Study the role of the contemporary quantity surveyor, and gain a critical awareness of the construction lifecycle
- Examine construction law and the commercial practices that affect the use, management and development of land
- Develop an understanding of the interactions between a building and its internal and external environments
- Learn how effective planning and resource management can impact on a project and its supply chain
- Explore how risk and value management techniques can optimise whole life cost solutions
- Benefit from field visits and real-world projects with our established built environment industry partnerships
options available
students accepted
Course accreditations
This is for you if...
You have a passion for developing, advancing and shaping the future of the built environment
You're keen to develop knowledge and technical skills in a recognised profession
You're enthusiastic, a good team player and want to develop professional skills
All about the course
Course delivery
Delivered full-time over three years, our BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying degree combines theoretical knowledge with the practical development, so you can develop professional skills and competencies.
In year one, you’ll explore topics including laws and regulations in the construction and property industry, as you progress to year two, you’ll expand your understanding of the full construction process and may complete an industry placement year. By the final year, you’ll explore advanced modules and complete a research dissertation.
Learn more about the course modules in the section below.
Learning experience
Located at the heart of the largest property and construction market outside of London, Salford is a great place to study a BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying degree. Our experienced academic team draws on strong links with local organisations to ensure you a stimulating range of external guest lecturers, placements and career networking opportunities.
Our Technology 1 module will help you gain the knowledge and skills necessary to describe, evaluate, explain, and apply building construction techniques used in typical low-rise, domestic type buildings that focuses on contemporary construction techniques.
Along with our series of theoretical modules, you will benefit from field visits, practitioner-led lectures and real-world problem-solving work developed for and by industry that will build your confidence and skills for life once you graduate.
Industry placement
On this course, you will have the option to take an industry placement year between years two and three. Although you will be responsible for securing your placement, our tutors will support you in finding a role and monitor your progress throughout.
Industry placements are an excellent way to enhance your CV, gain hands-on work experience and build industry connections. We often find that placement students achieve higher final year grades.
Introduction to Law and Regulatory Framework
You will be introduced to English Law and relevant statutory requirements for studying for vocational qualifications in the construction and property professions. The module also introduces you to the workings of the English legal system, to the law relating to contracts and to the regulatory framework affecting the use, management and development of land, in particular, planning, building control and the CDM regulations.
Technology 1
You will gain the necessary knowledge and skills to describe, explain, evaluate, compare and apply building construction techniques and materials used in typical low-rise, domestic type buildings, with a focus on contemporary construction techniques. You will develop a systematic understanding of the sustainable practices involved in building construction.
Quantity Surveying Private and Commercial Practice 1
You will explore the role of the quantity surveyor in the contemporary construction industry. You will learn to quantify basic domestic building construction work, using industry measurement guidelines and principles. You will also learn to estimate and prepare bills for domestic building construction, understand the tendering processes and apply ICT to quantity surveying practice.
Quantity Surveying Discipline Project 1
This project is an opportunity to develop investigation skills using case studies. You will develop an awareness of the key quantity surveying skills used in a real world/problem based scenario. The module will encourage you to develop self-discipline, personal planning/organisation and reflection, whilst also developing your communication and personal skills.
Economics and Management
On successful completion of this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge of basic economic concepts and principles of the economic environment in which the construction and property industry operates and knowledge of management theories in the construction context. You will be able to discuss the key role of the construction industry in the economy, current economic issues and management challenges in the construction and property context.
Introduction to the Role of the Quantity Surveyor
On successful completion of this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the role of the quantity surveyor and the activities a quantity surveyor would undertake in the pre-construction phase of a project. The module progresses understanding of the processes of financial and cost control during the construction phase of a project and involves the area of contract administration during the pre-construction and construction phases of a project.
Construction Process Management
You will develop a critical awareness and understanding of the construction process, at all stages, from inception to delivery. You will gain a practical understanding of the methods and techniques used in the planning and production stages of a construction project and competence in their application. This module will enable you to develop a comprehensive understanding of how effective planning and control of resources impacts on the control of a construction project and the supply chain. You will be able to understand and evaluate the concepts of risk and value and examine and apply techniques for their control and consider and review environmental impact, health & safety and other constraints on the construction process.
Quantity Surveying Private and Commercial Practice 2
You will understand advanced measurement and quantification relating to construction work by using measurement guidelines and principles. Using relevant ICT, you will develop detailed knowledge of estimating and cost management methods for construction projects and understand valuation methods during the construction stages.
Construction Economics
You will build a theoretical and practical understanding of how construction costs can be controlled at the pre-contract and post contract stages. You will also learn how alternative design solution can impact on life cycle costs and the methods used to establish costs.
Multi-Disciplinary Project
This project is an opportunity to experience collaborative working in multi-disciplinary team. It will promote reflection on individual and team working and the nature of built environment projects. You will practice and further develop key skills required by a built environment professional. You will also develop written/oral communication, team working and inter-personal skills.
Technology 2
You will enhance your knowledge and skills to describe, explain, evaluate, compare and apply building construction techniques and materials used in typical medium to large span single storey buildings and multi-storey industrial/commercial buildings. You will develop an understanding of both historic and contemporary construction techniques for medium to large buildings. You will learn to identify and critically review alternative construction technologies, and make informed decisions and recommendations.
Procurement and Administration
This module enables you to explore and differentiate the principal types of procurement systems and associated contracts used in the UK, you will also explore the fundamental procedures related to contract administration.
Quantity Surveying Discipline Project 2
You will work in a disciplinary team in the context of a complex refurbishment, design and construction project based environment. The project will highlight the working skills required by quantity surveyors and the real world/problem based scenario they face. The experience will help you to develop a personal development plan based on your learning needs, career aspirations or professional requirements. You will develop a broad knowledge of the principles of civil engineering construction and the measurement capability in accordance with the civil engineering standard method of measurement (CESMM4).
Quantity Surveying Private and Commercial Practice 3
You will gain advanced measurement and quantification skills relating to construction work by using industry measurement guidelines and principles. You will develop detailed knowledge of estimating and cost management methods for construction projects. The module will help you to understand valuation methods during construction, and the management of change throughout a project. You will learn to apply advanced ICT technologies used by construction industry professionals.
Research Project
You will develop your knowledge of good research practice through the completion of a written research proposal and a research document. You will also develop data analysis skills through the collection and critical appraisal of different sources of data.
Construction Law and Dispute Resolution
You will expand your knowledge of construction law, raise your commercial awareness and learn to consider risk management from a commercial perspective. You will explore the nature and causes of disputes between contracting parties and stakeholders in the construction industry, and the mechanisms for dispute avoidance and resolution.
Risk and Value Management
You will understand and learn to differentiate the processes, tools and techniques used to evaluate risk and value management of construction and property activities. The module content will also encourage you to explore and explain how risk and value management techniques can optimise whole life cost solutions for construction and property activities.
Sustainable Design and Construction
You will develop comprehensive recognition of the principles of sustainable design and their application in the practice of construction. The module content aims to reinforce the relationship between sustainable design and construction processes.
Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.
Frequently asked questions
What is quantity surveying?
Quantity Surveying involves managing and controlling construction project costs. Quantity Surveyors estimate costs, manage contracts, monitor budgets and ensure legal compliance. They work with various stakeholders to ensure projects are completed on budget and meet all necessary standards.
Are quantity surveyors paid well?
Quantity surveying is a field with high salary prospects. A starting salary of around £27,000 could be expected at graduate-level.
Is quantity surveying a hard job?
Quantity surveying can be challenging career yet offers many rewarding benefits. At the University of Salford, you will be at the cutting-edge of research and the projects you will undertake will be exciting and inspiring.
Despite the challenging and busy nature of the programme, it can be very rewarding as you develop key skills to the field such as teamwork, communication, numerical and data analysis and independent thinking.
There are methods to ensure you’re getting the most out of your BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying degree, including practicing good time management and making time for yourself to recharge. If you find your studies overwhelming, there will be support available from your lecturers and university support staff.
School of Science, Engineering and Environment
Rising to the challenge of a changing world, our degree courses are designed to shape the next generation of urbanists, scientists, engineers and industry leaders.
Driven by industry, and delivered by supportive programme teams, you can develop the knowledge and skills to become unstoppable in your career.
Facilities
As a quantity surveying degree student, you will learn in our carefully-designed study spaces that provide an inspiring environment to develop ideas, work collaboratively and share best practice.
Industry collaboration and research
When you start your quantity surveying degree with Salford, you are also joining a community making a difference in industry, our local region and in our wider society.
Many of our academics and technicians who support your course also deliver collaborative, interdisciplinary, high-impact work in a range of local and global built environment issues and challenges.
Discover how you are part of something bigger.
After your quantity surveying degree
Employment
We have designed our BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying degree to help you to develop a range of technical and professional skills that will make you highly-employable. Along with gaining a solid understanding of the built environment, you will build communication and presentation skills, develop your collaborative techniques and acquire project management skills during your studies.
The global construction industry continues to grow, and there is strong demand for qualified surveying professionals both in the UK and throughout the world. As a quantity surveying graduate, you will be equipped for graduate and entry-level roles across the built environment.
As a quantity surveyor, you can typically expect to find roles working in both the public and private sectors. Popular destinations for graduates include construction companies, project management consultancies, and government departments. Today, you will find our quantity surveying alumni working with leading construction industry organisations, including Lend Lease, Kier, Laing O'Rourke, Gardiner and Theobald and Balfour Beatty.
Read about Chris's role at KAM Project Consultants.
Further Study
You might find you want to learn more about the built environment. Building on our expertise, we offer a range of specialised postgraduate courses that can help you take your knowledge and career opportunities even further. Salford graduates and alumni will also receive a substantial fees discount.
- Construction Law and Practice (MSc)
- Construction Management (MSc)
- Project Management in Construction (MSc)
How to get accepted on the quantity surveying course
Applicant profile
In addition to our academic entry requirements, we also look for certain characteristics in each student. Possessing these characteristics will not only help you to fulfil your potential at university, but they are also an essential requisite for a successful career in the built environment.
English language requirements
All of our courses are taught and assessed in English. If you are an international student and not from a majority English speaking country, you will need IELTS 6.0 with no element below 5.5. We also accept a range of other English language qualifications.
If you do not have the English language requirements, you could take the Pre-Sessional English course, or the International Foundation Year to gain entry onto this degree.
GCSE
English Language and Mathematics at grade C/level 4 or above (or equivalent). You must fulfil our GCSE entry requirements as well as one of the requirements listed below
UCAS tariff points
104 points
A Levels
104 points
BTEC National Diploma
MMM
BTEC Higher National Diploma
Pass in a related subject for entry to level 5. Related subjects include Architecture, Construction, Civil Engineering, Building Studies, Estate Management
T level
T level is accepted. You will need 120 UCAS points from any subject.
Foundation Degree
Pass in a related subject for entry to level 5. Related subjects include Architecture, Construction, Civil Engineering, Building Studies, Estate Management
Scottish Highers
104 points from Higher Level
Irish Leaving Cetificate
104 points from Higher Level
European Baccalaureate
Please contact Admissions for further information
International Baccalaureate
29 points
Access to HE
104 points
Other Qualifications
Degree in a related subject for entry to level 5. Related subjects include Architecture, Construction, Civil Engineering, Building Studies, Estate Management
International students
We accept qualifications from all around the world. Find your country to see a full list of entry requirements. If you do not have the English language requirements, you could take the International Foundation Year to gain entry onto this degree.
Salford Alternative Entry Scheme (SAES)
We positively welcome applications from students who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to pursue the course successfully. Once we receive your application, we'll assess it and recommend it for SAES if you are an eligible candidate.
There are two different routes through the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme and applicants will be directed to the one appropriate for their course. Assessment will either be through a review of prior learning or through a formal test.
To be considered for the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme you must have already achieved or be working towards GCSE Maths and English Grade C/4 (or equivalent).
Please contact Admissions for further information.
The cost of studying BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying
Your tuition fees are regulated by the UK government who has proposed changes to tuition fees for UK students studying in England from 1 August 2025. The fee stated reflects this proposed change, but remains subject to parliamentary approval. Your tuition fees may increase in your first and each subsequent year of your programme to the maximum amount permitted by UK law or regulation for that academic year.
| Type of study | Year | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time home | 2025/26 | £9,535.00per year |
| Full-time international | 2025/26 | £17,650.00per year |
Additional costs
You should consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.
International student scholarships
If you are a high-achieving international student, you may be eligible for one of our scholarships.
Learn more about our latest international scholarships.