Quantity Surveying MSc
Subject and course type
- Construction and Surveying
- Postgraduate
Shape the Future of Construction Projects. This MSc equips you with the skills to manage costs and budgets in construction, ensuring value for money while maintaining quality and sustainability. Learn from industry experts and gain the tools to excel in the dynamic world of construction consultancy.
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Build a rewarding career in quantity surveying
Prepare for a dynamic and fulfilling career in the construction and property industries.
As a quantity surveyor, you'll play a critical role in managing project budgets and ensuring cost efficiency. Importantly, you’ll also focus on maintaining high standards of quality and sustainability.
This MSc equips you with in-demand skills in cost planning, procurement, risk management, and value engineering. You’ll learn how to navigate the complexities of construction contracts and project lifecycles, working closely with clients, architects and engineers. With the growing focus on sustainable and digital construction, you’ll graduate ready to lead in shaping innovative, cost-effective solutions for projects across the globe.
This course will equip you with the skills and knowledge to start you on a career that offers enormous scope for team working, travel and financial rewards.
Why choose this course
At Kingston, you'll benefit from a blend of academic rigor and practical application. Our MSc is fully accredited by RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) and the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). These recognitions ensure industry relevance and global acknowledgement. You will graduate confident in the core competencies required of a Chartered Quantity Surveyor.
Key features include:
- Expert teaching: Gain insights from experienced professionals with backgrounds in construction, consultancy, and cost management.
- Focus on sustainability: Learn how to integrate sustainable practices into construction projects.
- Hands-on Learning: Gain practical experience through testing in state-of-the-art laboratory facilities for structures, materials, concrete, geotechnics and hydraulics.
- Access to cutting-edge facilities: Use our simulation labs and software for real-world cost and resource planning.
- Networking opportunities: Engage with guest speakers, industry visits, and collaborative projects.
- Work-ready skills: Graduate ready to take on high-impact roles, from tendering processes to contract management.
This conversion masters provides an opportunity for graduates from disciplines other than surveying to convert their transferable skills. You’ll collaborate with a diverse team of students, extending your abilities in a critical way to match the quantity surveying profession.
You will develop in-depth knowledge and understanding of procurement, construction contracts and their administration. Importantly, you will acquire sound knowledge of construction economics and cost planning.
Our curriculum emphasises the EU and UK legal framework relating to construction, sustainable construction technology and project management. Studying in this context will prepare you to work on projects in the UK and beyond.
Accreditation
This course is fully accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).
The MSc programme delivered at our partner institutions is not currently accredited by the RICS or CIOB.
Course content
This conversion masters provides an opportunity to graduates from disciplines other than surveying to convert their transferable skills and extend their abilities in a critical way to the quantity surveying profession. You will develop in-depth knowledge and understanding of procurement, construction contracts and their administration. You will acquire sound knowledge of construction economics and cost planning. The curriculum further places emphasis on the EU and UK legal framework relating to construction, sustainable construction technology and project management. In addition to the core taught modules, you will receive training on research methodology and undertake a dissertation (research project).
For a student to go on placement they are required to pass every module first time with no reassessments. It is the responsibility of individual students to find a suitable paid placement. Students will be supported by our dedicated placement team in securing this opportunity.
Work placement scheme
Many postgraduate courses at Kingston University enable students to take the option of a 12-month work placement as part of their course. Although the University supports students in finding a placement and organises events to meet potential employers, the responsibility for finding the work placement is with the student; we cannot guarantee the placement, just the opportunity to undertake it. You may find securing a professional placement difficult as they are highly competitive and challenging, but they are also incredibly rewarding. It is very important to prepare and apply yourself if this is the route you wish to take. Employers look for great written and oral communication skills and an excellent CV/portfolio. As the work placement is an assessed part of the course, it is covered by a student's Student Route visa.
Find out more about the postgraduate work placement scheme.
Modules
Core modules
15 credits
This module will provide you with broad expert knowledge in commercial construction technology, from pre-construction to post-construction phases, with a focus on sustainable construction and building services in the built environment. Sustainability, Building Regulations, and Construction Design and Management (CDM) regulations will also be highlighted to create inclusive environments in line with the demands of the construction industry.
The module enables you to develop skills in employing traditional and contemporary construction methods for commercial building designs, analysing the choice and use of different construction materials for building elements, interpreting and producing drawings/sketches of building structures and elements, as well as exploring appropriate building service solutions for sustainable development. You will have an extended vision of sustainability and construction management.
By the end of the module, you should have developed in-depth knowledge of building types, site investigation, substructure (foundations and basements), superstructure (framed structure, floors, ceilings, cladding, roofs), selection and use of different construction materials, building construction design in compliance with building regulations and relevant guidelines, drawing skills, and sustainable solutions of building services (thermal, moisture, lighting, acoustics, air quality, water supply, fire safety, and electricity).
15 credits
The module introduces you to the processes used to procure and manage construction projects. You will be provided with an overview of the construction industry and the role of the surveyor in key stages of the property life cycle. The fundamentals of professional and ethical conduct and principles of client care and inclusive communication and collaboration will be explored. The module will proceed to introduce you to procurement and tendering arrangements typically employed in the UK construction sector, enabling you to apply your knowledge to identify optimal solutions to suit the client's needs. Project management techniques and tools will also be covered, with emphasis placed on core functions relating to project planning, programming and control. Soft skills essential for successful project delivery will be considered. You will attend a series of lectures and practical sessions and be expected to take an active role by applying your knowledge to practical scenarios within these. The module is assessed by a client report.
15 credits
This module explores into the intricacies of contractual arrangements and administration within the context of the UK construction industry. Throughout this module, you will acquire a comprehensive understanding of key concepts and principles, enabling you to navigate the legal landscape that governs construction projects and their appropriate approach to contract administration. This module offers a profound deliberation into various facets of legal obligations and contract administration in construction, including statutory and regulatory frameworks, standard contract forms, and the roles and responsibilities of parties involved in construction contracts. This module equips you with knowledge in cultivating analytical and critical approaches in applying the law of obligations and evidence, and skills essential for successful contract management, risk mitigation, conflict and dispute resolutions and compliance with statutory requirements; skills that are invaluable for built-environment professionals in the construction industry that fulfils key criteria as set by the relevant professional institutions in the UK. The module also accentuates the development of relevant graduate attributes highly sought after in the construction industry, such as collaboration, critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, initiative and creativity.
15 credits
This module provides you with the knowledge and skills required for managing people and organisations in sustainable environments within the construction industry context. It introduces you to the basics of business planning and organising to achieve business goals and objectives.
In addition, the module encompasses the knowledge of accounting principles, standards and the knowledge and skills required for evaluating the financial standing and viability of organisations as a prerequisite for involvement in a project team.
People are an essential and critical resource for the success of any construction endeavour. The module will explore human resource and people management and how they affect and are affected by the construction process. You will learn the importance of understanding the person and how the construction process affects individuals' wellbeing and sense of belonging. The abilities to negotiate and resolve conflicts will be emphasised.
Managing information effectively within organisations and projects is critical for business success in the construction industry. This module further provides you with the knowledge and skills for managing general information and project information using computerised and collaborative digital tools and systems.
The module provides an in-depth understanding of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Construction Information Management System (CIMS) in the construction industry. It covers various topics related to BIM and CIMS, including their application, benefits, challenges, and future developments. You will delve into the different stages of BIM and CIMS, including modelling, collaboration, documentation, and analysis. The module will cover various software tools that are commonly used in BIM and CIMS, such as Autodesk Revit, Navisworks, and BIM 360.
In addition, you will learn how digital construction has revolutionised the construction industry and how BIM and its closely-related digital technologies are used as tools for the realisation of the Construction Industry 4.0. The module will discuss the future trends and developments in BIM and CIMS, such as the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Virtual Reality (VR) in construction.
30 credits
This module will enable you to develop the knowledge and ability to produce construction works estimates at various stages of work based on amount of information available at each stage and using methods appropriate for the purpose for which the estimate is required. The module focuses on approximate and detailed quantification and costing of buildings and engineering projects and aims to enable you to gain working knowledge of the principal methods of measurement and their application in quantifying and costing of such complex construction. The module will allow you to apply your developed construction technology background on the quantification of building and civil engineering works at all stages of the construction process. Upon completion, you should be able to competently carry out measurement and costing of complex structures at preliminary and later stages of the design and construction process. The module is taught by a series of lectures, tutorials and workshops in which you will be expected to take an active role. Quantification and costing of construction work are core skills of the quantity surveyor that underpin the procurement and financial management of construction projects. Therefore, this module will develop your measurement and costing skills through the understanding and application of standard industry rules and conventions in the subject area. The module also accentuates the development of relevant transferable skills and attributes highly sought after in the construction industry, such as, analytical, problem-solving, communication and digital skills.
30 credits
The module enables you to develop deep understanding of the principles of construction economics and explore applications of consultancy in the context of delivering corporate objectives. The module places emphasis on the relationship between building morphology and costs throughout the building life cycle and the control of costs from inception through design development. You will develop analytical knowledge of building price estimating, and cost planning and their application in the UK construction context. You will develop the ability to critically apply the use of techniques such as value management, whole-life costing, risk management, benchmarking, and carbon emission reporting in development appraisals as well as the application of standard IT packages in construction economics. The module finally aims to provide you with a stimulating experience involving fieldwork in which you can apply the knowledge that you have gained in this and other modules to a consultancy practice scenario. You will work in a team to innovate and think strategically to provide reasoned advice and complete solutions on a wide range of issues. The module is delivered through a series of lectures, tutorials and simulated role-play. Assessment is by two elements of coursework and an oral presentation.
60 credits
The overall aim of the module is to allow you to develop research skills and gain an appreciation of a subject area of your own choosing. In undertaking the work that is required you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and competence in reviewing existing published literature and data and through the use of your own efforts apply one or more of a range of research methods to collect and analyse data and draw well-founded conclusions as a result of your research. The module allows you to study an area of interest in significant depth and allows you to demonstrate a clear understanding of what has been learnt through a variety of means; a literature review, a research proposal, an oral presentation and a substantial dissertation.
Professional placement
Professional placement
120 credits
The Professional Placement module is a core module if you're following a masters programme that incorporates an extended professional placement. It provides you with the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills in an appropriate working environment, and develops and enhances key employability and subject specific skills in your chosen discipline. You may wish to use the placement experience as a platform for a major project or your future career.
It is your responsibility to find and secure a suitable placement opportunity; this should not normally involve more than two placements which must be completed over a minimum period of 10 months and within a maximum of 12 months. The placement must be approved by your Course Leader prior to commencement to ensure its suitability. You will have access to the standard placement preparation activities offered by the Student Engagement and Enhancement (SEE) group.
Read more about the postgraduate work placement scheme.
Careers opportunities
At Kingston, we prepare you to lead in a rapidly evolving industry. Graduates of this course pursue roles such as Quantity Surveyors, Construction Consultants, and Project Managers.
Graduates have progressed to roles in organisations such as Mace, Laing O'Rourke, Trabur, Transport for London, Willmott Dixon and Wates.
Our strong industry connections ensure you stay ahead of emerging trends like digital construction and sustainable design. All members of staff are research active or professional practitioners, so we can maintain a cutting edge curriculum. Our schedule of guest lectures also invites you to learn from industry professionals and alumni.
The modules that form part of this RICS and CIOB accredited course will equip you with a range of professional skills. Alongside your academic studies, you will develop skills in:
- problem solving and organisation
- data collation, review and synopsis
- communication (oral, written and electronic)
- time management
- computing
- cooperation and teamwork.
Access guidance and networking opportunities through strong partnerships with professional institutions and industry leaders.
Teaching and assessment
When not attending timetabled sessions, you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. Typically this will involve reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for exams. Your independent learning is supported by a range of excellent facilities including online resources, the library and CANVAS, the online virtual learning platform.
As a student at Kingston University, we will make sure you have access to appropriate advice regarding your academic development. You will also be able to use the University's support services.
A course is made up of modules, and each module is worth a number of credits. You must pass a given number of credits in order to achieve the award you registered on, for example 360 credits for a typical undergraduate course or 180 credits for a typical postgraduate course. The number of credits you need for your award is detailed in the programme specification which you can access from the link at the bottom of this page.
One credit equates to 10 hours of study. Therefore 180 credits across a year (typical for a postgraduate course) would equate to 1,800 notional hours. These hours are split into scheduled and guided. On this course, the percentage of that time that will be scheduled learning and teaching activities is shown below. The remainder is made up of guided independent study.
- 19% scheduled learning and teaching
The exact balance between scheduled learning and teaching and guided independent study will be informed by the modules you take.
Your course will primarily be delivered in person. It may include delivery of some activities online, either in real time or recorded.
Type of assessment
- Year 1: coursework: 84%; exams: 13%; practical: 3%
Assessment typically comprises exams (e.g. test or exam), practical (e.g. presentations, performance) and coursework (e.g. essays, reports, self-assessment, portfolios, dissertation).
We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 20 working days.
You will be part of an intimate cohort of 20-40 students which provides dedicated academic guidance and advice as well as the opportunity to build a life-long network of colleagues. Some modules are common across other postgraduate programmes; you may therefore be taught alongside postgraduates from other courses.
Fees and funding
| Fee category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | |
| Full Time | £11,400 |
| Part Time | £6,270 |
| International | |
| Full Time | £17,600 |
| Part Time | £9,680 |
| Fee category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | |
| Full Time | £10,900 |
| Part Time | £5,995 |
| International | |
| Full Time | £16,900 |
| Part Time | £9,295 |
Funding support for postgraduate students
If you are a UK student living in England and under 60, you can apply for a loan to study for a postgraduate degree on the government's website.
Scholarships and bursaries
For students interested in studying Quantity Surveying Consultancy MSc at Kingston, there are several opportunities to seek funding support:
This scholarship offers a 40% reduction in fees across a range of taught postgraduate courses. Learn more about eligibility criteria for Inspire the Future applicants.
If you are an international student, find out more about scholarships and bursaries.
We also offer discounts for Kingston University alumni.
And there are Progression Scholarships available for certain postgraduate courses. Review our range of funding opportunities for masters-level study.
Additional course costs
Some courses may require additional costs beyond tuition fees. When planning your studies, you’ll want to consider tuition fees, living costs, and any extra costs that might relate to your area of study.
Your tuition fees include costs for teaching, assessment and university facilities. So your access to libraries, shared IT resources and various student support services are all covered. Accommodation and general living expenses are not covered by these fees.
Where applicable, additional expenses for your course may include:
Our libraries have an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as open-access computers and laptops available to rent. However, you may want to buy your own computer or personal copies of key textbooks. Textbooks may range from £50 to £250 per year. And a personal computer can range from £100 to £3,000 depending on your course requirements.
While most coursework is submitted online, some modules may require printed copies. You may want to allocate up to £100 per year for hard-copies of your coursework. It’s worth noting that 3D printing is never compulsory. So if you choose to use our 3D printers, you’ll need to pay for the material. This ranges from 3p per gram to 40p per gram.
Kingston University will pay for all compulsory field trips. Fees for optional trips can range from £30 to £350 per trip.
Your tuition fees don’t cover travel costs. To save on travel costs, you can use our free intersite bus service. This route links the campuses and halls of residence with local train stations - Surbiton, Kingston upon Thames, and Norbiton.
Courses involving placements or direct work with vulnerable groups may require a DBS check or other security checks.
Specific courses may require uniforms, specialty clothing, or specific equipment like lab coats and safety shoes.
If you choose to do a placement year, travel costs will vary depending on your location. These costs could be up to £2,000. If you choose to take a placement as part of this course, you will be invoiced for the placement fee in Year 2. Find out more about the postgraduate work placement scheme and the costs for the placement year.
Some courses may require professional memberships.
Kingston University will supply you with a lab coat, hard hat and safety goggles at the start of the year. A £10 voucher will be supplied to help cover the cost of the safety boots when purchasing with our supplier Activity Work Wear. Safety boots can range between £25 and £100.
You may need to purchase equipment when going on site visits such as safety gloves. This may cost up to £50.
How to apply
Before you apply
Please read the entry criteria carefully to make sure you meet all requirements before applying.
How to apply online
Use the course selector drop down at the top of this page to choose your preferred course, start date and mode, then click 'Apply now'. You will be taken to our Online Student Information System (OSIS) where you will complete your application.
If you’re starting a new application, you’ll need to select ‘new user’ and set up a username and password. This will allow you to save and return to your application.
Application deadlines
We encourage you to apply as soon as possible. Applications will close when the course is full.
Information required to confirm your place
If English is not your first language, we will require proof of your proficiency to allow us to confirm your place on the course. This will generally be either an IELTS or TOEFL test certificate, which can be forwarded to us after you have submitted your application. If you do not hold a formal English language qualification, please indicate how you have acquired your proficiency in written and spoken English.
After you have applied
For courses that select on application alone, applicants should normally receive an initial decision or a request for more information within four to six weeks of receipt of their application. Our admissions team will notify you of the decision by email.
Learn more about the postgraduate application process in detail.
Course changes and regulations
The information on this page reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. To improve your student experience and the quality of your degree, we may review and change the material information of this course. Course changes explained.
Programme Specifications for the course are published ahead of each academic year.
Regulations governing this course can be found on our website.
What our students and graduates say
I’d had a positive experience on my undergraduate course at Kingston (Civil Engineering) so Kingston was an obvious choice when I wanted to enhance my career prospects by taking a RICS accredited course. I now work for TFL, a job that Kingston helped me get.
