HNC Surveying

Course Information

The HNC in Surveying at Coleg y Cymoedd, Nantgarw Campus is a two-year part-time evening only course (two nights per week 17.00 – 21.00).

The course has been developed in partnership with the University of South Wales (USW). The course covers three main pathways: site production and management; quantity surveying; and building surveying.

The goal is for students to progress (with further study) to an Honours Degree and subsequently become full Members of professional bodies such as: the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB); Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS); Association of Building Engineers (ABE); etc. dependent upon industrial experience and vocational bias.

Overview

The construction industry requires a skilled technical and managerial team to deliver new projects and manage existing property portfolios. This course gives you the technical skills you need to work as a higher-level technician in the construction and property industries and enables you to progress to other higher education courses.

This Course has been developed in conjunction with the University of South Wales. It has been designed to combine the needs of employers with academic study which will be provided through an integrated programme of workplace learning and a formal structured programme of college-based study.

The course can also be a route into higher education for a wide range of students from many different backgrounds.

What will I study?

At Nantgarw you will be taught through a blended learning format to include lectures, seminars, tutorials, and site visits. You will also be involved in directed learning, presentations, assignments, tutorial preparation and problem-solving exercises.

You will also have access to the University facilities (including the library and student union) and will be able to attend guest speaker talks, allowing an overall integrated experience.

In year 1 you will gain an understanding of the underlying principles and practice of construction and design for low and medium rise buildings and structures. In addition, you will gain experience in the use of CAD software.

In year 2 you will extend your knowledge into site practice, financial planning, building law and an introduction to site surveying.

In addition, you will undertake an in-depth research investigation related to the construction industry.

Assessment

You be required to complete a range of assignments and examinations appropriate to each module. The overall qualification is drawn from a range of level 4 modules totaling 120 credits.

Progression

Successful graduation of the Foundation Degree will allow ‘top-up’ entry at the University of South Wales to Year Three of Five (part-time) or Year Two of Three (full-time) for BSc Building Surveying, BSc Quantity Surveying & Commercial Management or BSc Construction Project Management.

The college does also have strong links with other local universities and has seen past graduates gain entry onto Surveying and Architectural degree courses at University West of England and Cardiff Metropolitan respectively.

Alternatively, it is possible to apply for direct Associate membership of the RICS.

Entry Requirements

Admission arrangements for the Course will seek to ensure equality for all applicants. It is anticipated that students enrolled should be able to fulfil the objectives and outcomes of the Course and achieve the required standard.

Students should be at least 18 years of age and normally possess the one of the following.

A minimum of 48 UCAS points, equivalent of 2 GCE A Levels (at Grade D or above) and 3 GCSEs at Grade C or above to include Mathematics and English Language, or

a relevant BTEC Level 3 Diploma qualification with MP grade or for the Extended Diploma PPP.

Mature learners without the necessary academic qualifications but with relevant technical experience in the construction industry may be considered, subject to interview. Evidence may be required that applicants are able to meet the demands of the Course.

English Language Requirements.

Any degrees, diplomas, or certificates eligible above should have been taught and assessed in English, or
English language fluency to TOEFL 237 (computer-based) or higher, or IELTS 6.5 or higher.

How do I apply?

Apply direct

Apply now

Fees and Funding

Course Fees and Funding

Course Fees for the Foundation Degree in Sustainable Construction and Surveying is £2,100 per year.

There are grants that may be available. Eligible full-time student can claim a minimum grant of £1,000 they will not have to pay back, regardless of their household income, and means-tested grants of up to £8,100 will be available to those who need them most.

Students who wish to study at Higher Education level can contact Student Finance Wales for financial help with course fees, provided that they are living in Wales.

Please note: Fees are payable for each year of study. HE Fees are subject to change on a yearly basis.

For more information visit Welsh Government’s Student Money.

Additional Costs

It is recommended that students have access to a suitable laptop/Desktop PC. Ideally an i7 processor, 16GB RAM, 2-4GB Graphics card to run CAD software smoothly. As a student you will have free access to Microsoft Office, Revit and ArchiCAD software.

Staff Information

Stephen Ward MA MRICS – Course Leader

01443 663 370
Block A, NAG02, Nantgarw Campus

stephen.ward@cymoedd.ac.uk

Facilities

The course includes a good mix of practical work.

3D CAD work using AutoCAD, Revit, ArchiCAD software.

Survey mapping using, optical & digital levels, total stations, LisCAD software.

Materials analysis using, heat loss, lighting, humidity, sound insulation monitors.Project management using Costx software.

What our students say

Nicholas Daley, Surveyor

“I enrolled on the HNC in surveying, having previously been working as a carpenter/joiner for 15 years. Personally, I feel the course provided me with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to pursue my end goal as becoming a building surveyor. My past trade experience really helped, and the course enabled me to combine my practical experience with the academic assessments. There is a good variation within the modules and the assessments taught me the importance of research, analysis, planning and organisational skills and how to process information. I feel that the HNC in surveying is a really well-rounded course that will teach you to take responsibility for your own learning”.

Craig Austins, Trainee Asset Surveyor

“Studying my HNC surveying was a great experience, it gave me a wealth of knowledge within the construction industry. The knowledge of CDM regulations, building regulations, Building Law and AutoCAD has allowed me to further my career within surveying. Since the completion of my course, I have been able to use this knowledge and experience to successfully obtain a new job within a local housing association as a Trainee Asset Surveyor. Tutors were really supportive and helpful, with their vast knowledge and experience they would always be able to help and guide you in the right direction.”

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