An Introduction to Building Materials

Module Description

The construction industry involves the specifying, designing, manufacturing, and applying of a vast array of materials ranging from concrete and aggregate to steel, wood, gypsum, wood, aluminium, stainless steel, to granite and polymers.

These are used in all facets of a construction project starting from foundations to the building fabric up to the finishes. Each material has its own characteristics, strength, costs and suitability for particular applications.

This module will introduce students to the various commonly used materials, their physical characteristics and areas of use.

Entry Requirements

Candidates who apply for this course must possess the following:

• a qualification at MQF Level 4 (one ‘A’ Level or equivalent in any subject);

AND

• a pass in English Language and Mathematics at MQF Level 3 (‘O’ Level or equivalent).

Preference is given to applicants having a year of work experience in a field related to the study programme.

Target Audience

This course is targeted at:

• individuals aspiring to work as quantity surveyors;
• individuals who wish to advance their education and gain in depth knowledge and skills related to quantity surveying;
• individuals already working in the field of quantity surveying who would like to obtain a qualification in quantity surveying.

Career Paths

The possible positions for which this programme aims to prepare you for include, but are not limited to: 

• Quantity Surveyor  
• Commercial/Residential Surveyor 
• Estimator 

How you’ll be assessed

The course comprises:

• Evening classes for part-time courses.
• Classes held throughout the day for full-time courses.
• Guided learning, presentations, comprising synchronous online discussions, tutorials and/or videos.
• Self-study hours comprising research, reading and assignment work.

Assessment

Assessment is carried out via two mandatory components:

• Modular Assessment
• Summative Assessment

The programme includes different forms of assessment which allow for and promote students’ critical engagement. The formative and summative assessment tasks may include an in-class assignment and/or a home-based written assignment using diverse assessment tools which may take the form of online and in-class discussions, examinations, case studies, reports, proposals, essays, and presentations, etc., as applicable to the diverse modules.