COURSE INFORMATION

This course has been designed to provide you with the knowledge and understanding necessary to start a career in Quantity Surveying or Estimating. It is also ideal if you are already working in the industry and are looking to gain a promotion. During the first year of HND: Quantity Surveying, you will achieve all the units necessary for the HNC: Built Environment group award.

The following skills are developed over the 2 year:

  • Attention to detail & Methodological skills
  • Mathematical skills
  • Financial skills
  • Teamwork & Communication skills
  • Software skills
  • Organisational skills
  • Two years full-time. 

This is a mainly theory-based course which includes important knowledge and skills for successful employment. These are studied in the context of both practical and theoretical classes, including the following:


  • Quantitative Building Studies: Substructure & Drainage (measured as per the standard method of measurement - NRM2)
  • Quantitative Building Studies: Floors, Roofs & Concrete (measured as per the standard method of measurement - NRM2)
  • Estimating
  • Construction Technology - Substructure
  • Construction Technology - Domestic Construction
  • Construction Contracts: Conditions and Procedures
  • Quantity Surveying Practice
  • CAD: 2D I
  • Building Services on Large Buildings
  • Construction Materials and Specification
  • Building Measurement & Cost Studies 
  • Economics for the Built Environment
  • Financial Studies
  • Quality in the Construction Industry
  • Modern Methods of Construction
  • Building Science
  • Sketching and Drawing
  • Construction Site Surveying 

One of the following:

  • One Higher at Grade C or above in a relevant subject (English, Maths, History, Business Management, Economics, any science subject) plus three National 5s at Grade C or above which must include Maths.
  • Foundation Apprenticeship: Civil Engineering SCQF Level 6
  • National Certificate: Built Environment SCQF Level 6 (with additional Maths for Construction
    Technicians unit).
  • Another relevant course at SCQF Level 6.
  • Relevant industry experience and/or other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis.
  • It is possible to progress to the BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying at one of your partner Universities - see our HE and Degree Pathways guide for more information. 

It is possible to build a career in the following areas:

  • Quantity Surveying
  • Estimating
  • Project Management
  • Commercial Management

General stationery including:

  • Scientific Calculator
  • Scaled ruler
  • Mechanical pencil and nibs (0.7 nibs) 
  • Drawing board – approx. £30
  • Sketch pad – approx. £5
  • Coloured pencils and highlighter's
  • You may be required to take part in an informal conversation as part of the application process. This group/individual conversation may be an information session, a portfolio discussion, or a skills based exercise.
  • Proof of qualifications must be brought to this.
  • Any relevant portfolio/work to evidence your suitability against course content would also be welcomed at this stage.