KA5012 - Construction Economics

What will I learn on this module?

In this module you will learn the consultant Quantity Surveyor’s role in the development process. You will learn preparation of cost estimates using preliminary estimating techniques, order of cost estimate and cost plan. Further, you will explore how to conduct cost checking integration of contemporary software packages compatible with BIM technology and tools. Moreover, you will discover programming of construction work, management of risk in programming of work and modern software packages in construction programming.

You will study a range of topics in this module:
• Preliminary Estimating
• Order of Cost Estimating
• Cost Planning
• Cost Modelling
• Building Morphology
• Building Information Modelling and 5D BIM
• Risk Management (Programming)
• Programming of Construction Work

How will I learn on this module?

You will learn through lectures, seminars, 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 seminars and hands-on sessions in Northumbria’s computer labs, which are fully equipped with the latest industry-standard software. You will get verbal and written formative feedback in preparation for summative assessments.

If you are in employment your workplace will be the main learning environment, in effect acting as a framework for construction economics. 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.


If you are in employment your workplace will be the main learning environment, in effect acting as a framework for construction economics. 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 small-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. Further, the tutor team can be contacted by email, and where appropriate to get help for your module questions.

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
You will be expected to be able to:
• MLO1: Prepare an early stage estimate, approximate quantities estimate, elemental cost plan and cost checking in accordance with client requirements.
• MLO2: Appraise building cost based on building morphology and cost modelling techniques.
• MLO3: Recognise the building information model to integrate cost information and construction programming to a typical construction project.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities
You will develop your skills, which you will be able to:
• MLO4: Apply programming of construction work and assess risks associate with project programming.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA)
You will develop and reinforce to:
• MLO5: Demonstrate the capacity for independent, evidence based thinking and decision making

How will I be assessed?

Formative Assessment: Tutors will give feedback on the exercises relevant to different sections discussed in the seminars and you will record and track your progress throughout the module.

Summative assessment: This module is assessed by an open book exam. This tests all module learning outcomes.

Pre-requisite(s)

None

Co-requisite(s)

None

Module abstract

The aim of this module is to further develop knowledge and competence gained at level 4 with a particular focus on the role of consultant Quantity Surveyor. This will comprise a focus on construction economics via the application of an early stage estimate, elemental cost plan and approximate quantities estimate in accordance with client requirements. Further, the module includes the integration of contemporary software packages compatible with BIM technology and tools. Students will be able to apply and develop skills in a range of seminar activities which will provide verbal and written formative feedback in preparation for summative assessments. The summative assessment will be an examination at the end of the module. Your engagement with the module and its assessment will assist in the development of the knowledge, skills and attributes that are valued by employers.

If you are in employment your workplace will act as a framework for construction economics to develop your skills and knowledge.

Course info

UCAS Code K240

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

Fee Information

Module Information

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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