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Quantity Surveying – BSc (Hons)

  • CAO Points: 288

  • Location: Athlone

  • years: 4


Course Overview

This course is suitable for those interested in the professional side of the Construction Industry.

The Quantity Surveyor acts within both accountancy and legal frameworks. This 4 year programme offers specialisms in Building Information Management (BIM) and in the area of Mechanical and Electrical Services Cost Management. These are areas of significant growth in the Irish construction industry, particularly in sectors such as Data Centre Development, Pharmaceutical, Agri-food and large scale commercial projects.

In Ireland, as well as internationally, there is a shortage of Quantity Surveyors with Mechanical and Electrical qualifications. This means that the successful student will
be much sought after when it comes to employment.

Additional Information

Accreditation
The institute would expect that graduates will pursue chartered status through the assessment of professional competence process and achieve chartered status with the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI), and in parallel achieve chartered status with the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). The process of obtaining professional accreditation for the programme will take a number of years to complete.

Professional Accreditation
The BSc (Hons) in Quantity Surveying has been accredited by the Society of Chartered Surveyors of Ireland (SCIS), an affiliate of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). All graduates will have the educational qualification deemed necessary to apply for the title of Chartered Quantity Surveyor.

Contact Details

Alan Duffy

Head of Department

Email: Alan.Duffy@tus.ie

What are the entry requirements?

Leaving Certificate

Grade H5 at higher level in two subjects, plus Grade 06 at ordinary level in four other subjects in the Leaving Certificate. Two of these subjects must be Mathematics and a language (English or Irish)

QQI

QQI applicants to this programme must hold the following award: construction technology (5M5010). They are also required to have the module mathematics (5N1833) or Maths for STEM (5N0556) included in their award or alternatively have Leaving Certificate mathematics. They must also possess distinctions in three modules.

Further Education/Prior Learning Applicants

Applications will also be considered for Direct/Advanced Entry from those with a FETAC Level 5/6 qualification (or equivalent) and/or relevant prior learning. Click here to learn more.

Mature Applicants

Candidates applying as mature applicants may be required to attend an interview and may be requested to take an aptitude test to prove their suitability for a place on this programme.

International Applicants

International applicants should apply directly to the International Office at TUS, allowing plenty of time for completing the visa process. Applications for September start should be made by 1st June at the latest to ensure visas are processed in time. You should familiarise yourself with visa processing times for your country of origin to ensure you make a timely application. Find out more here.

Course Modules

  • Measurement and Costing 1.1

    Credits: 5

    Introduction to taking off quantities from first principles and introduction to procurement methods for Surveyors.

  • Mathematics 1

    Credits: 5

    The aim of the module is to introduce fundamental mathematical concepts and enhance the problem-solving skills that are central to the programme.

  • Communications 1

    Credits: 5

    This module will provide students with a range of communication and IT skills applicable to the built environment.

  • Domestic Construction Technology 1.1

    Credits: 5

    This module will provide the learner with knowledge and understanding of many accepted construction principles and technology details which are incorporated in modern domestic buildings. The focus of the module will be on site preparation, substructure and superstructure. It is envisage that the module will develop in the learner both an understanding of the technical guidance documents and a competence in the interpretation and application of the technical guidance documents in the context of domestic building construction. The module also serves to provide a background to the Building Control Act and Building Regulations and provides an insight as to how the requirements of their respective guidance documents influence construction technology details. The learner will also develop an awareness of the concept of building retrofitting and its relative merits.

  • Building Information Modelling 1.1

    Credits: 5

    The module will provide the student with a capability in the use of AutoCAD software to prepare drawings and construction details associated with the domestic construction industry. The module also introduces the different elements of BIM and how it is utilised from the conceptual stage of a project through to completion and also during the lifecycle of the building.

  • Construction Management 1.1

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to introduce and explain those key management functions and processes applicable throughout the site works of a construction project and consider the basic concepts, principles, systems and procedures which impact on the management functions and processes carried out.

  • Measurement and Costing 1.2

    Credits: 5

    The aim of the course is to provide the student with the necessary skill and training on more advanced measurement and costings based on the Agreed Rules of Measurement (4 Edition) for residential buildings from first principles. The module aims to give the student an understanding of how to calculate and write descriptions on more advanced elements of building work in residential buildings.

  • Land Surveying 1

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this course is to introduce the student to the basic principles and techniques of surveying. To provide students with an appreciation of the basic principles and techniques of Linear surveying, setting out and map reading. The student will develop ability in the use of surveying equipment with particular attention to accurate measurement and interpretation of information.

  • Domestic Construction Technology 1.2

    Credits: 5

    This module will provide the learner with knowledge and understanding of many accepted construction principles and technology details which are incorporated in modern domestic buildings. The focus of the module will be on finishes, fittings and retrofitting of existing buildings. It is envisaged that the module will develop in the learner both an understanding of the technical guidance documents and a competence in the interpretation and application of the technical guidance documents in the context of domestic building construction. The module serves to provide an insight as to how the requirements of the building regulations and their respective guidance documents influence construction technology details. The learner will also develop an awareness of the concept of building retrofitting and its relative merits.

  • Communications 2

    Credits: 5

    This module will provide students with a range of communication and IT skills applicable to the built environment. These skills will support graduates as they progress through their academic studies and professional careers.

  • Building Information Modelling 1.2

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to introduce the student to Building Information Modelling (BIM) software. The student will be involved in topical discussions in the area of BIM as well as being introduced to 3D modelling workflow and parameters. Practicals allow students to develop their knowledge of BIM whilst integrating the building regulations into the design of a dwelling.

  • Construction Management 1.2

    Credits: 5

    This module will provide the learner with a background in both planning and environmental legislation in the context of building construction works and projects. The learner will also develop a knowledge of the current planning practices and procedures involved for construction works/projects whilst recognising the intrinsic links between both planning and environmental legislation. The relationships between and the roles of the various professional parties involved throughout the duration of a construction project from inception to completion will also be discussed. The module will also develop in the learner an understanding of the comprehensive and professional issues in respect of building control, building regulations and standards/practices involved in their implementation, control, supervision and certification.

  • Measurement and Costing 2.1

    Credits: 5

    To give the student the necessary skills to carry out contract administration on the Public Works Contract for builders’ work, designed by the Employer and the Public Works Contracts for buildings designed by the Contractor. Furthermore, we will also give the student the necessary skills to assist in contract administration of the RIAI Form of Contract 2012, with and without quantities.

  • Commercial Construction Technology 2.1

    Credits: 5

    This module will provide students with a basic knowledge of site and temporary works, and the range of technologies available for the construction of commercial and industrial buildings including the construction of substructure, superstructure, in addition to off-site production. Students will also develop their construction vocabulary and their ability to interpret construction drawings.

  • Building Services Technology 2.1

    Credits: 5

    The aim of the module is to introduce the learner to Building Services mechanical and Electrical Services systems for Domestic Buildings, in order to enable the learner to understand the design concepts and to recognise the constituent elements detailed in schedules, schematics and drawings.

  • Building Information and Communication Technology 2.1

    Credits: 5

    In this module, students will develop their ability to effectively utilise data in a construction business environment. The module will demonstrate the efficiency that can be achieved in project management through the use of advanced spreadsheet applications. Students will learn fundamental concepts in spreadsheet design and receive comprehensive practical training on their features, functions and applications. The module will also provide students with practical knowledge and skills in data analysis for project support, enabling them to gain hands-on experience in utilising data to inform project decisions and preparing them for data-driven decision-making processes.

  • Legal Systems and Contract Law 2

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to introduce the student to the fundamentals of Irish Legal Systems and Methods and Contract Law.

  • Economics and Finance 2

    Credits: 5

    This module is intended to provide students with an essential background in macroeconomics, microeconomics and finance.

  • Domestic Building Services Measurement & Costing 2

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to develop the students’ ability in the area of cost management and measurement for building services. Topics covered will include preparation of order of cost, cost planning, measurement of quantities and the preparation of tender and contract documents in the pre-contract phase.

  • Measurement & Costing 2.2

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to develop the students’ ability in the area of cost estimating and estimating for construction projects from inception through to final completion. Topics covered will include preparation of order of Cost, cost planning, preparation of unit rates, estimating, cost control and change management in the post contract phase.

  • Commercial Construction Technology 2.2

    Credits: 5

    The module aims to provide the student with a holistic overview of the construction materials and methods utilised to complete a commercial or industrial building in terms of finishes, fit out and 2nd fix, retrofit, and relevant legislation pertaining to these commercial and industrial type buildings.

  • Building Services Technology 2.2

    Credits: 5

    The aim of the module is to give the student an understainding of the composition of the more complex Mechanical & Electrical Services in commercial and industrial buildings. The module will give an overview of the design and installation of all M&E sub elements and the concepts of utility supply.

  • Building Information and Communication Technology 2.2

    Credits: 5

    In this module, students will learn how to effectively apply project management software to plan, track, and manage projects. The focus will be on using process flow and project scheduling software to communicate project requirements and performance to a range of stakeholders involved in the project.

  • Business Management 2

    Credits: 5

    To provide students with the knowledge and skills to manage and administer a successful business. The module focuses on an enterprise’s capacity to adapt to its competitive environment and to identify opportunities which can lead to competitive advantage. Emphasis is placed on the lean management and development of the business model.

  • Commercial Building Services Measurement & Costing 3

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to develop in the student the ability to perform the role of quantity surveyor cost manager in relation to industrial and large scale commercial projects, particularly in relation to the elements of mechanical and electrical elements. The student will also be given a solid understanding of alternative methods of measurement, the use of software systems for measurement and cost control. The student will also explore deeper issues in relation to forms of contract.

  • Energy Management 3

    Credits: 5

    The aim is to introduce the student to Energy Management and Auditing Principles, standards, software and equipment and to equip the learner to plan, execute and review energy audits on mechanical and Electrical systems. The module provides an understanding of the latest energy cost reduction techniques and strategies. The learner can gain the knowledge to effectively apply state-of-the-art principles of Energy Management to achieve control over energy costs.

  • Development Economics 3

    Credits: 5

    The student is given the necessary skills to carry out feasibility studies on proposed developments. He/she will also gain an understanding of the importance of value engineering / management techniques and should be able to advise on different solutions for the given task.

  • Building Information Modelling (MEP) 3

    Credits: 5

    The course is intended to introduce participants to and allow them to gain practical experience of using Autodesk Revit Mechanical Electrical Plumbing (MEP) in a commercial setting. The practical nature of this module is intended to advance the theory gained by the students on other modules.

  • Project Management 3

    Credits: 5

    The goal of this module is to teach students how to initiate and manage construction projects to consistently achieve successful outcomes. The module emphasises the formative aspects of project management and explores the stages of project development, the evolving role of the project manager and the influence of stakeholders during a project’s lifecycle, and how to adapt to these changes.

  • Law of Tort, Land Law and Ethics 3

    Credits: 5

    The aim of the module is to provide the student with a knowledge and understanding of Land Law and the Law of Torts. The student will explore case law and gain an appreciation of requirements such as Insurance, Health and Safety processes, HR Management and Site Possession. It will also further explore current legislation affecting Building Works.

  • Construction Health and Safety 3

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to develop knowledge and understanding of Health and Safety Legislation and best practice, as it pertains to the construction industry.

  • Industry Placement 3

    Credits: 25

    Students will be required to spend a minimum of 24 weeks on placement with an organisation in the construction industry which will give the student an exposure to the quantity surveying and cost control field of expertise.

  • Mission Critical Measurement & Costing 4

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to introduce the student to the various cost factors associated with large scale data centre construction, clean room and pharmaceutical construction technology, manufacturing facility construction, commercial agricultural and food related construction. The student will gain an understanding of the various factors that influence such mission-critical projects. The student will also apply value engineering and lifecycle cost analysis to these construction environments.

  • Contract Administration 4.1

    Credits: 5

    Upon completion of this module the student will have an understanding of the processes involved in the valuation of construction work executed, the management of client and unforeseen variations to the cost of a project, the management of change orders to the project and have an understanding of the process of claims management. The student will have a clear understanding of these processes from the client and the contractor perspective, and have an appreciation of cost versus value on a construction project.

  • Construction Law 4

    Credits: 5

    To provide students with the tools necessary to plan, manage and communicate legally within a contract from conception to completion. To provide the student with a legal awareness of contracts and to be in a position to be involved in dispute resolution should it arise. In addition, the student will learn how to manage and identify risks and insurance on construction projects.

  • Building Information Management 4

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to introduce the student to Building Information Management and how it is currently influencing construction management both on and off sites. Students will gain an insight into the new roles developing in construction teams and what this means for managing BIM enabled projects. An introduction to some of the software currently being used on construction sites will also be introduced.

  • Project Management 4

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to effectively plan and manage a construction project from initiation to closure. Students will be introduced to project management standards and methodologies, including Agile and PmBok, as well as project integration and support activities.

  • Research Methods

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to introduce the students to concepts related to academic research. The module will address issues such as academic integrity, survey research, short paper preparation, critically reviewing literature and presentation of research findings.

  • Dissertation (Year Long)

    Credits: 10

    The aim of this module is to enable students to carry out a comprehensive research project and communicate the findings of the research. The module will address developing research questions, overview of research methodologies, carrying out a comprehensive literature review, designing and conducting a programme of primary research, collecting and analysing data and producing findings from the work. Communication strategies including written and oral research proposals, thesis preparation, data visualisation and poster presentations will be covered.

  • Facilities Management Measurement & Costing 4

    Credits: 5

    The aim of this module is to develop the students understanding of cost factors in the Workplace Management. The student will explore the concepts of Asset Management, Service Level Agreements & Warranties, Facilities Management and Human Resources. The student will understand the context of construction spend in relation to these disciplines.

  • Contract Administration 4.2

    Credits: 5

    The aim of the module is to give the student an understanding of the final account process in a construction project. The module will take the student through all the stages of final account administration and also examine negotiation techniques and claims management in practice. Additionally, the student will explore the requirements of professional cost reporting and the importance of cost analysis on completed construction projects.

  • Professional Practice 4

    Credits: 5

    To give the student the necessary skill and to prepare him / her future role as a qualified Quantity Surveying professional. The student will be made aware of the importance of the registration of title Quantity Surveyor under the Building Control Act 2007, and the role that the Society of Chartered Surveyors in Ireland has in maintaining standards and protecting the public.

  • Applied Project Management 4

    Credits: 5

    The goal of this module is to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to plan and manage construction projects effectively. It takes into account both the internal organisational environment and external environmental factors that may impact their work.

  • Dissertation (Year Long)

    Credits: 10

    The aim of this module is to enable students to carry out a comprehensive research project and communicate the findings of the research. The module will address developing research questions, overview of research methodologies, carrying out a comprehensive literature review, designing and conducting a programme of primary research, collecting and analysing data and producing findings from the work. Communication strategies including written and oral research proposals, thesis preparation, data visualisation and poster presentations will be covered.

What can you do after this programme?

As a graduate of this programme, you can expect to find employment as a QS in a wide range of sectors including the data, pharmaceutical, agri-food, large scale commercial construction sectors; in chartered surveying consultancies, working in dedicated M&E specialist departments; and working as a QS for contractors and quantity surveying practices.

As a graduate of this programme, you will be equipped to progress to a postgraduate programme, study or research at TUS or another institute. You will also be eligible to pursue chartered status.

Successful graduates of this programme are eligible for Level 9 and 10 postgraduate programmes within TUS or elsewhere.

Student Story

Additional Information

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