Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
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Course overview
-
L27 -
Distance Learning -
Part-Time -
2 Years -
21 Sep 2026
Whether you’re looking for a route into construction or you want to become a chartered surveyor, this Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) accredited course will prepare you to progress to chartered building surveyor status.
As part of this course, you'll:
- Gain the practical skills and theoretical knowledge that supports your role as a building surveyor in protecting, maintaining and refurbishing both modern and historic buildings
- Study building pathology, construction law and the technology behind building refurbishment
- Develop theoretical appreciation and practical skills to repurpose existing buildings and efficiently maintain them once they’ve been renovated
Interactive collaborative learning
This online course will enable you to further your current role or enter a career in building surveying. It offers the flexibility for you to fit your studies around your work and home commitments. You’ll be able to access our Virtual Learning Environment in your own time and benefit from remote academic support.
This course includes interactive learning, so you’ll have the opportunity to share your experiences with your tutors and fellow students through group discussions. In this collaborative environment, you’ll be exposed to new issues and ideas, giving you the ability to bring different solutions to your work.
Expert practitioners
The teaching team includes professional building surveyors with specialist knowledge, so you’ll have access to expert advice on a range of disciplines, from building pathology to project management.
Professional recognition
Accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), this course meets the institute’s standards for content, structure and resources – supporting your path to becoming a Chartered Surveyor.
Why study the MSc Building Surveying course at Leeds Beckett University?
- Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) accredited course
- Supports with progression on to Chartered Surveyor Status with the RICS
- Convenient distance learning through our Virtual Learning Environment
- Industry experienced expert teaching team
Everything you need to know
Discover all there is to know about the course, from entry requirements and fees to exploring the school you’ll be joining - we’ve got it covered.
Entry requirements
Applicants should either have at least a second class honours degree or have equivalent experience or training, normally from within the work environment.
Please note, this course is not suitable for applicants with a first degree in Building Surveying that is accredited by The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.
All applications should be supported by a reference, either academic or professional; you can download our reference template for completion.
All applicants should satisfy our English Language requirements. Please note the IELTS requirement for this course are IELTS 6.5 with no skill below 5.5. Further details about acceptable equivalent qualifications can be found on our International Student information pages.
Entry requirements
Applicants should either have at least a second class honours degree or have equivalent experience or training, normally from within the work environment.
Please note, this course is not suitable for applicants with a first degree in Building Surveying that is accredited by The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.
All applications should be supported by a reference, either academic or professional; you can download our reference template for completion.
All applicants should satisfy our English Language requirements. Please note the IELTS requirement for this course are IELTS 6.5 with no skill below 5.5. Further details about acceptable equivalent qualifications can be found on our International Student information pages.
IELTS
All applicants should satisfy our English Language requirements. Please note the IELTS requirement for this course are IELTS 6.5 with no skill below 5.5. Further details about acceptable equivalent qualifications can be found on our International Student information pages.
Selection Criteria
We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through a number of modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to the specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.
Modules, teaching and learning
Distance learning
We understand that full-time study does not suit everyone. That’s why we offer courses which give you the opportunity to decide where, when and how you can get involved in learning. Studying a distance learning course offers the convenience and flexibility to make education work for you. Whether you’d like to fit your studies around childcare, develop your skills while working or, quite simply, want to learn from the comfort of your own home, we can help you gain a qualification at a time and pace that suits your lifestyle.
Like our students on campus, you’ll have the same excellent teaching and learning resources, however you’ll find these online instead of a lecture theatre. Not only are all the modules taught online, but you’ll also have access to an online community and more than 140,000 books and journals in our online library.
Technical requirements for distance learning study are detailed in the full guide. Visit our distance learning website for more information.
Overall workload
Each module on our distance learning courses is individually designed to maximise your learning so study requirements will vary. As a general guideline, you’ll need to allocate around 10 hours per week to complete each module, plus a further five hours for additional reading and assignments. However, this may vary depending on the module. Teaching and learning will be delivered using a range of interactive resources. This typically includes audio and video content, group discussions, reflective exercises, quizzes, online reading and much more. All these resources are delivered through our Virtual Learning Environment and can be accessed at a time and place that suits you.
What you'll learn
Explore the principles, methods, and materials that support sustainable construction. This module introduces sustainability in the context of the built environment across global, neighbourhood, and building scales. You'll examine how sustainability can be embedded throughout the project lifecycle – from design and construction to operation and end-of-life management – and critically evaluate strategies for selecting sustainable construction techniques and infrastructure. By the end of the module, you'll demonstrate a strong understanding of the factors that contribute to sustainable building and civil engineering practices at multiple spatial scales.
Prepare for the presentation of academic, independent and professional research. This module enables you to identify issues in the design and presentation of research and select appropriate qualitative or quantitative research strategies for resolution. Additionally, you'll be equipped to evaluate research papers and review the effectiveness and appropriateness of methodologies implemented.
This module examines the broad spectrum of law-related issues which are prevalent in construction contract. You'll study the function and effectiveness of legal principles in the resolution of design/construction problems. You'll then learn how to apply these principles to potentially avoid or resolve such difficulties. Upon completion, you'll be able to provide advice on appropriate contractual frameworks for the management of construction projects.
Develop a deep understanding of the principles, processes, and professional services delivered by building surveyors. This module explores the practical application of legal and statutory knowledge within a commercial context, alongside the challenges and responsibilities of professional practice. You'll critically analyse industry ethics and standards and apply appropriate solutions to a range of real-world professional situations.
Building on your knowledge of construction technology by exploring how to diagnose and remedy defects in buildings. This module focuses on the properties of materials and the causes of deterioration and failure, with particular attention to the repair and conservation of historic buildings. You'll cover key topics such as surveys and inspections, damp, timber rot and insect attack, concrete defects, structural movement, and deleterious materials.
Building on your existing knowledge of construction technology, you will study the diagnosis of defects in buildings and how to remedy them. You will look at the characteristics and properties of materials and the causes of deterioration and failure, with a particular emphasis on historic buildings.
Gain a comprehensive understanding of how physical assets and properties are managed to support core business operations. This module equips you with broad knowledge of property and asset management, including how strategic business planning relates to acquisition, user needs, cost-quality balance, and overall organisational performance. You'll explore the full property lifecycle – from valuation techniques and performance monitoring to risk management, financial considerations, and disposal strategies.
This module gives you the opportunity to carry out a self-directed, in-depth research or design project in an area that aligns with your professional interests or ambitions. You'll develop a detailed project proposal, apply critical research methods, and produce a final output that demonstrates advanced knowledge and academic or industry relevance. Throughout the process, you'll reflect on professional standards and demonstrate an understanding of key issues such as ethics, confidentiality, sustainability, and social responsibility in architectural practice.
Critically explore the principles, techniques and processes involved in adapting, refurbishing and retrofitting existing buildings – including the conservation of historic buildings. This module addresses the challenges of meeting statutory, energy, economic, and functional requirements, while examining current research and emerging themes. You'll consider how historical, architectural, technological, and material constraints impact the performance of buildings. You'll also develop the ability to analyse and propose refurbishment solutions that respond to diverse building designs and evolving user needs.
Fees and funding
£10,400
UK
Studying part-time gives you the flexibility to learn at your own pace. Because of this, the part-time tuition fees are calculated using credit points.*
The tuition fee for students entering in 2026/27 is £57.77 per credit.
The total number of credit points for this course is 180.
*The fee you pay may differ based on the number of credit points you study.
£11,450
International 2026. Full Course Tuition Fees.
Studying part-time gives you the flexibility to learn at your own pace. Because of this, the part-time tuition fees are calculated using credit points.*
The tuition fee for students entering in 2026/27 is £63.61 per credit.
The total number of credit points for this course is 180.
*The fee you pay may differ based on the number of credit points you study.
Fees and funding
£10,400
For students entering in 2026. Full Course Tuition Fees.
Studying part-time gives you the flexibility to learn at your own pace. Because of this, the part-time tuition fees are calculated using credit points.*
The tuition fee for students entering in 2026/27 is £57.77 per credit.
The total number of credit points for this course is 180.
*The fee you pay may differ based on the number of credit points you study.
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Essential Costs
- You’ll need access to a computer, the internet, and any necessary course software. Visit the course Teaching & Learning 'Modules, Workload & More' section for more details.
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
£11,450
For students entering in 2026. Full Course Tuition Fees.
Studying part-time gives you the flexibility to learn at your own pace. Because of this, the part-time tuition fees are calculated using credit points.*
The tuition fee for students entering in 2026/27 is £63.61 per credit.
The total number of credit points for this course is 180.
*The fee you pay may differ based on the number of credit points you study.
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Essential Costs
- You’ll need access to a computer, the internet, and any necessary course software. Visit the course Teaching & Learning 'Modules, Workload & More' section for more details.
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
Funding support for your studies
Discover more about our range of postgraduate funding options including a Master's Loan of up to £13,206, and our 20% alumni discount*
*Terms apply
Career prospects
There’s a lot to consider when choosing a course. Take a look at the team you’ll be working with, employability statistics and career prospects to help make up your mind.
Career Prospects
On successful completion of the course, your skills will be recognised across the construction industry and your academic studies will provide a sound base which will support your practical skills. The work-based projects you’ll be involved in will enable you to apply your learning to the workplace from the very start of the course.
Job roles upon graduation could include:
- Building surveyor
- Project manager
- Building controller
- Loss adjustor
- Conservation officer
- Expert witness
- Estates manager
Neil Berry
Course Director / School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing
This course will give you the opportunity to enter or further your career in the diverse and increasingly important profession of building surveying. This RICS accredited distance learning programme will enable you to study a full master’s course around your life commitments. You’ll also have the opportunity to engage with industry leaders as well as our own experienced industry and academic tutors.”
Neil Berry
Course Director
School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing Industry Careers Fair 2022 - overview Sam Zulu explains what the Industry Careers Fair is all about and how it benefits both students and employers.
Beckett Careers Team
Our careers service is not just there for undergraduates, we support our postgraduate taught and research students too.
Your postgraduate degree will boost your CV and help you stand out from the crowd. Whether you're just starting out on your chosen career path, changing careers or moving to the next level, we can provide you with expert advice and resources to help you take the next steps to achieving your goals.
Student life
At Leeds Beckett your experience is important to us, find out more about what to expect from your time on this course and life at uni.
what is distance learning?
A great option for flexible learning
Very simply, to study by distance learning means you don't have to be based in Leeds to take one of our courses. Wherever you are and whatever you want to study, it's a great option for flexible learning.
When you choose one of our distance learning courses, you can do just that – study at a distance, at a pace that suits you.
Like our students on campus, you will have the same excellent teaching and learning resources, however you'll find these online instead of in a lecture theatre. Not only are the modules taught online but you will also have access to an online community and more than 140,000 books and journals in our online library.
Our extensive list of distance learning courses means that whether you are from the UK or further afield, changing your career path or looking for that promotion, we have a course that suits your needs.
Thinking of staying at home for your studies?
It’s a great option for lots of our local students
