Like Grand Designs? These uni courses might be worth a look
Hi everyone, If you enjoy watching Grand Designs, buildign and architecture shows and find yourself more interested in the building process than just the finished house, there are actually quite a few university courses that link directly to that kind of work!
This blog from Birmingham City University breaks down some of the main routes into construction, property and the built environment, and thought it might be useful for anyone considering these subjects.
Quantity Surveying
Quantity surveyors are basically responsible for the financial side of construction projects. They deal with budgets, costs, contracts and making sure projects stay financially realistic.
If you’re reasonably confident with numbers and like the idea of working on real construction projects (without being on site all the time), this is a solid option. Courses usually include industry placements and are often accredited by professional bodies like RICS, which helps with future careers.
Real Estate
Real estate courses focus more on land, property and development rather than the physical building work itself. This includes things like property valuation, land use, planning and investment decisions.
It suits people who are interested in how developments affect cities and communities, and who prefer the strategic or commercial side of property rather than design or construction.
Architecture
Architecture is the more obvious link to programmes like Grand Designs. This route is about design, problem-solving and turning ideas into workable buildings. Architecture degrees tend to be quite demanding and design-focused, with a lot of project work.
You’ll usually learn technical drawing, design software and how buildings work in practice, not just how they look.
Other options
It’s also worth mentioning that construction and the built environment aren’t limited to these three routes. There are degrees and apprenticeships in areas like building surveying, architectural technology, construction management and planning.
If you like the idea of being involved in how buildings and spaces are created but aren’t sure about a traditional academic route, apprenticeships can be a good alternative.
I hope that helps! If you're not sure which one's for you, come along to an Open Day. Give me a shout if you have any questions!
Abbie
BCU Rep
This blog from Birmingham City University breaks down some of the main routes into construction, property and the built environment, and thought it might be useful for anyone considering these subjects.
Quantity Surveying
Quantity surveyors are basically responsible for the financial side of construction projects. They deal with budgets, costs, contracts and making sure projects stay financially realistic.
If you’re reasonably confident with numbers and like the idea of working on real construction projects (without being on site all the time), this is a solid option. Courses usually include industry placements and are often accredited by professional bodies like RICS, which helps with future careers.
Real Estate
Real estate courses focus more on land, property and development rather than the physical building work itself. This includes things like property valuation, land use, planning and investment decisions.
It suits people who are interested in how developments affect cities and communities, and who prefer the strategic or commercial side of property rather than design or construction.
Architecture
Architecture is the more obvious link to programmes like Grand Designs. This route is about design, problem-solving and turning ideas into workable buildings. Architecture degrees tend to be quite demanding and design-focused, with a lot of project work.
You’ll usually learn technical drawing, design software and how buildings work in practice, not just how they look.
Other options
It’s also worth mentioning that construction and the built environment aren’t limited to these three routes. There are degrees and apprenticeships in areas like building surveying, architectural technology, construction management and planning.
If you like the idea of being involved in how buildings and spaces are created but aren’t sure about a traditional academic route, apprenticeships can be a good alternative.
I hope that helps! If you're not sure which one's for you, come along to an Open Day. Give me a shout if you have any questions!
Abbie
BCU Rep
Quick Reply
Related discussions
- University of Salford
- Is taking two artistic-based A-Levels worth it?
- Struggling with what to pick at uni😭
- Help/advice needed
- What A-levels will i need to study Architecture in uni?
- Best courses for me
- Unsure about uni course
- Hospitality Management Undergrad Course
- Changing from Art & Design into Tech - What are my chances?
- Architecture Universities/Portfolios
- What should I include in my portfolio?
- For those applying for Graphic Design, Illustration, Vis Com courses
- Still feeling lost on a gap year.
- Is it too late to change course?
- Graphics design or Chemistry course at Uni?
- A level subject combination help please
- Should I self study A-Level Physics?
- LMA Liverpool Musical Theatre
- uni course help
- Which course?
Latest
Trending
Last reply 2 months ago
Architecture at the University of York [UPDATE]Last reply 5 months ago
UWE Bristol VS Oxford Brookes for Urban/Spatial Planning?Last reply 6 months ago
Which university is better when we compare LSBU with UELLast reply 6 months ago
Is there chance i get into the bartlett with these?Last reply 7 months ago
Cardiff, Edinburgh, Sheffield or Manchester for architecture 2025?Last reply 7 months ago
Would i get accepted into the universities i chose with these grades?Last reply 7 months ago
Worth self-funding for a second degree (Architecture)/going back to uni at 25?Last reply 7 months ago
Is it realistic to study architecture in london and have a part time job??Last reply 8 months ago
UCL, UAL or Liverpool for architecture 2025Last reply 8 months ago
UCL Bartlett vs UAL CSM for Architecture – Which One?
How The Student Room is moderated
To keep The Student Room safe for everyone, we moderate posts that are added to the site.
