Building Surveying

Building surveying is a professional discipline focused on the fabric, performance, and condition of existing buildings, with particular expertise in pathology, refurbishment, reuse, restoration, repair, and conservation. While quantity surveyors focus primarily on cost, and structural engineers on structural integrity, building surveyors assess buildings holistically, identifying defects, advising on repair and maintenance, overseeing refurbishment projects, and managing the complex process of adapting existing structures for new uses. It is a discipline with an important sustainability dimension: keeping existing buildings in use and in good condition is one of the most effective ways to reduce the carbon footprint of the built environment.

At the University of Salford, this part-time programme develops the knowledge base and skillset needed for a professional building surveying career with genuinely global opportunities across many industries in the built environment sector. You will study building technology, construction materials, building pathology, building law and contract, health and safety, planning, conservation, and the management of refurbishment and renovation projects, developing both the technical knowledge and the professional judgement that a surveying career requires. A sandwich year in industry and work placements are part of the programme, giving you direct professional experience in building surveying or related roles before graduation.

With a typical entry tariff of 120 UCAS points, this part-time programme is accessible to students who need to combine study with work or other commitments. Graduates pursue careers as building surveyors, project managers, contract administrators, building inspectors, and property consultants in private practice, local authorities, housing associations, property management companies, and major construction and property organisations. Professional development toward Chartered Surveyor status through the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors is the well-established route for career progression.

Many graduates also continue to postgraduate study.