What will I learn on this module?
You will gain an understanding and examine the role of the Building Surveyor in managing property, construction contracts and the design process. You will learn to identify and analyse the key theories and procedures within construction projects including procurement, tendering and contract selection. You will understand how these are integrated within the roles and duties of the contract administrator and health and safety practice. Design principles and practice along with specification writing learnt will further enhance your practical skills and compliment the theoretical knowledge learnt.
How will I learn on this module?
You will learn through lectures, workshops, and independent learning. The lectures will cover theories and concepts that will enable you to tackle a series of guided exercises. You will work on these during workshops and hands-on sessions in Northumbria’s computer labs, which are fully equipped with the latest industry-standard software.
If you are in employment your workplace will be the main learning environment, in effect acting as a framework for contract administration and practice. However, tutor support will be available via drop-in sessions throughout the module study period. If you are in employment it is recognised that there is the need for modes of blended learning delivery, experiential assessment, and opportunities to combine work and study through independent study, embedded learning opportunities, and relevant communications technologies. Lecture capture will be used to elaborate on the content contained in any teaching material along with audio recording and notes to support presentations on key topics.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
Support will include feedback from tutors during group seminars and tutorials. In addition tutors will respond to questions via the module’s discussion board at the University’s eLearning Portal so that the whole group can benefit.
If you are in employment your workplace will be the main learning environment, however, tutor support will be available via drop-in sessions throughout the module study period. The eLP, telephone and email will be used as a means of communication once the initial briefings have taken place and work-based visits will be made by tutors if appropriate.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
• MLO1 You gain understanding from a building surveying perspective of the different elements and stages of delivering a construction project.
• MLO2 An understanding and practical knowledge of pre and post contract procedures and processes.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• MLO3 You will develop your skills in analysing different theoretical frameworks around the subjects contained within contract administration and design practice. It is important for employability to be able to critically evaluate approaches, based on the best available evidence and research.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• MLO4 You will develop and reinforce the ethical characteristics of a Northumbria under graduate as you consider the values that underpin the successful delivery of a construction project.
• MLO5: You will develop and apply a reflective approach to learning and personal development
How will I be assessed?
Summative assessment will be in form of an individual scenario-based project, with a context in practice.
Formative assessment will be provided within seminars and workshops with verbal feedback given. Formative feedback will be provided verbally on a weekly basis for seminar/workshop tasks.
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
This module aims to explore and establish the main processes and procedures involved within the delivery of a construction project from the initial inception through to client handover following the RIBA Plan of Work. It seeks to introduce students to the decision making and legal processes within the context of selection of procurement and tendering. You will critically analyse and examine key legislation, develop an understanding of the roles of different professionals involved within a project. The importance of communication and the change process relating to contract administration will be explored. Practical experience to enhance design skills is an essential part of this module which is underpinned with the theoretical knowledge gained not only from this module but all the level 5 modules, which will enhance and develop your vocational skills and knowledge.
If you are in employment your workplace will act as a framework for contract administration and practice to develop your skills and knowledge.
Course info
UCAS Code K230
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Architecture and Built Environment
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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