Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

The programme blends core construction technology with project management, law, economics and professional practice. Early modules introduce construction materials and methods, fundamentals of building services and site practice alongside study skills and drawing standards. Progressing through the course you will cover project planning and control, cost estimating and procurement, contract law and administration, construction health and safety, and sustainability in the built environment.

• Construction technology and materials
• Project planning, scheduling and control (including use of industry software)
• Cost management, estimating and procurement strategies
• Construction law, contracts and contract administration
• Risk management, quality assurance and health & safety
• BIM, digital construction and information management
• Sustainability, environmental management and low‑carbon construction
• Professional practice, ethics and client‑facing skills
• Final year project or dissertation focused on a real project or research question

Teaching typically combines lectures, tutorials, laboratory and workshop sessions, practical site visits and technology‑based studio work. Many students undertake live client projects and group work simulating industry teams. The programme often offers an optional professional placement or sandwich year to gain supervised workplace experience and enhance employability.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a typical UK secondary school qualification (for example A‑levels or equivalent) with passes in relevant subjects; Mathematics and a science or technology subject are an advantage. BTEC or other vocational qualifications in construction, engineering or built environment subjects are usually considered. Mature applicants and those with relevant work experience are welcome and may be assessed on the basis of prior learning and experience.

Typical application requirements include a personal statement demonstrating interest in the construction industry, a reference and evidence of competency in English. International applicants should meet the university's English language requirements. Applicants should check the university's specific entry guidance for up‑to‑date information on accepted qualifications and any subject prerequisites.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across the construction and built environment sectors. Common graduate destinations include:

• Assistant or graduate project manager with contractors and subcontractors
• Site manager or site supervisor on residential, commercial and infrastructure projects
• Planner or scheduler using Primavera or MS Project
• Contract administrator or commercial assistant in developer and consultancy practices
• Client‑side roles in local authorities, housing associations and commercial clients
• Graduate positions with construction consultancies, project management firms and cost management practices

Career progression commonly leads to roles as chartered project managers, senior site managers, commercial managers or consultancy directors. The programme is designed to support progression towards professional membership and chartered status through recognised bodies in the sector, particularly where graduates undertake the required professional experience after graduation.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes combines a practical, professionally oriented curriculum with access to industry contacts across the Thames Valley and London construction markets. Teaching staff bring a mix of academic experience and industry backgrounds, supporting applied learning through live projects, site visits and industry speakers. The university provides specialist facilities and computer suites running industry standard software for BIM, estimating and project planning, and a careers service that helps secure placements and graduate roles.

The course emphasises employability, with opportunities for work placements and close links to local and national employers. Students benefit from the university's focus on sustainable construction and innovation, preparing graduates to meet contemporary challenges in project delivery, digital working and low‑carbon construction.