BSc (Hons) Construction Management explores how different parts of the construction process fit together, and how you can manage that process to deliver the best results for society and the environment

There is a growing need for managers who have expertise across construction, engineering and management. Currently there is a shortage of such managers and so this course will give you excellent career prospects. You will study a number of business and management modules to give you the skills you need to manage a range of construction projects. These include Commercial Management, Law and Procurement, and Management of People.

A particular strength of the course is the opportunity to undertake a year-long work placement with a construction/engineering company. The course’s relevance and rigour is reflected by its accreditation by the Chartered Institute of Building.

Northumbria University Newcastle holds Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) Accredited Centre Status.

This Programme has been designed to meet the CIOB Education Framework.

Prospective members holding these qualifications have full academic exemption and once they have gained three to five years’ relevant work experience may enter CIOB membership as an applicant to progress towards Chartered Membership without the requirement for an Individual Assessment.

Why choose Northumbria to study Construction Management BSc (Hons)?

• Top University - Northumbria is ranked 11th in the UK for Construction, Surveying & Planning (Guardian University League Table, 2024).
• A Research Powerhouse - Architecture, Built Environment and Planning is ranked 11th in the UK for research power out of 38 submissions (REF, 2021). This is a rise of 13 places compared to 2014 – the joint highest rise in the sector.
• Student Rated - Over 95% of students studying Construction Engineering Management at Northumbria believed that their course enabled them to develop knowledge and skills needed for their future and thought staff were good at explaining things (NSS, 2023). Also, 87% of students studying Construction Surveying & Planning at Northumbria were satisfied with the assessment on their course, meaning we ranked 5th in the UK (Guardian University League Table, 2024)

How will I learn during the Construction BSc (Hons) course?

Your tutors will use a variety of teaching methods including lectures, seminars and problem-based workshops. We make numerous visits to construction sites so you can see how a building project ‘fits together’ and see first-hand how the construction process unfolds. You’ll speak with industry professionals and learn about their skills and experiences.

The teaching will help you understand fundamental principles of construction and gain experience in solving problems. At first these problems will be clearly defined and then, as your studies progress, you’ll become expert in carrying out advanced analyses of complex and ambiguous issues. You’ll identify innovative solutions that will take account of the realities of construction and what’s best for the wider society.

Assessment methods include written reports, portfolios, presentations, exams and debates on current construction issues. The various methods will help you develop your skills in communication, cooperation and group work.

Who teaches the Construction BSc (Hons) course?

You’ll be taught by tutors who have many years of experience in all aspects of the construction industry, from design to the completion of a finished building. Their experience, combined with their on-going active research, will provide an excellent foundation for your learning.

Our reputation for quality is reflected by the range and depth of our collaborations with industry partners. We’ve built up numerous industrial links during the 50+ years that we’ve been offering engineering courses. These links help ensure high quality placements and collaborative projects.

Northumbria has the advantage of being located in the North East of England, which is a centre of manufacturing and technical innovation. As well as Nissan, the region’s #1 company, there is a strong concentration of automotive, engineering, chemicals, construction and manufacturing companies

Where will I study during my time at Northumbria?

Northumbria has excellent facilities to support your learning, including the latest computer software that’s being used in the construction and engineering industries. In particular you’ll have the opportunity to learn how to use Autodesk Revit, a Building Information Modelling (BIM) tool, and be supported in this process with professional training materials from ‘White Frog’.

Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) is embedded throughout the course with tools such as the ‘Blackboard’ eLearning Portal and electronic reading lists that will guide your preparation for seminars and independent research. Our use of lecture capture software will help you revise challenging material.

The learning environment at Northumbria University is enriched by constant interchange with the construction and engineering industries. The frequent field study visits will give you multiple opportunities to speak with construction professionals and take advantage of their experience.

How does this course prepare me for my future career?

Northumbria University Newcastle holds Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) Accredited Centre Status.

This programme is accredited by the CIOB (subject to conditions), having been judged to meet the CIOB Education Framework.

Prospective members holding these qualifications have full academic exemption and once they have gained three to five years’ relevant work experience may enter CIOB membership as an applicant to progress towards Chartered Membership without the requirement for an Individual Assessment.

The placement year, before your final year, will enrich your experience and offer an extended opportunity to engage with industry. We encourage all students to consider undertaking a placement, though it’s not compulsory and you can choose to complete the course in three years.

By the end of this course you’ll be in an excellent position to apply for graduate training schemes and graduate roles in construction management. Our Careers and Employment Service offers resources and support that will help you find roles matching your interests and skills.

You could also undertake further study at postgraduate level with a course such as our Construction Project Management MSc. If you decide to start up your own business, it’s good to know that the combined turnover of our graduates’ start-up companies is higher than that of any other UK university.

Whatever you decide to do, you’ll have strong employability as a result of having acquired the characteristics of a Northumbria graduate. These include critical reflection and self-learning, collaboration and curiosity, and the ability to apply your knowledge to solve problems in ways that are sustainable and ethical.