CONSTRUCTION (DIGITAL CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT) Level 5 Foundation Degree

Level 5
Higher Education
Newry Campus
The Open University

Overview

The Foundation Degree in Digital Construction Management (accredited by the Open University) provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the construction industry, which has undergone a digital revolution, with the development of 'Building Information Management' in the whole life cycle of the building and construction process.

Digital Construction Management is helping to address productivity challenges within the construction industry by using digital technologies to create more efficient, integrated ways of working. Through tools such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), information and processes can be coordinated throughout the entire lifecycle of a construction project, supporting a more collaborative and data-driven approach to project delivery.

One of the most exciting aspects of Digital Construction Management is the use of emerging technologies to capture, monitor and communicate construction progress. Photogrammetry, for example, can involve using drones to capture detailed images of a construction site, which are then used to generate accurate 3D models. These models can be easily viewed and shared by project teams, providing an efficient and accessible alternative to more traditional surveying methods.

This course is designed to bridge this skills deficit, providing a qualification that covers the traditional knowledge and skills required but enhanced with the digital skills needed to function effectively within the industry.

An important and unique aspect of the Foundation Degree is the work-based learning. The course requires the students to complete a minimum of 350 hours industrial placement. This is designed for the final semester of the course to ensure students develop the knowledge and skills prior to the period of assessment.

Further information on Open University regulations can be found at this link or below.

SRC HE Attendance Guidelines

SRC OU Admissions Guidelines

SRC OU Assessment Handbook

SRC OU Extenuating Circumstances Procedures

SRC OU RPL Guidelines

SRC Student Protection Plan

SRC Regulations for Validated Awards

Foundation Degree Construction Programme Specification

Southern Regional College is approved by The Open University as an appropriate organisation to offer higher education programmes leading to Open University validated awards.

The over-riding consideration in admitting applicants to the course, is evidence that the learner or apprentice is likely to be able to complete the course satisfactorily.

Attendance at Individual or Group Pre-Entry Advice Sessions (IPEAS and GPEAS) may be required. These interviews may take place either on campus, via telephone or video call (Microsoft Teams) and will play an important role in the selection of all courses.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age on or before 1st July in the year of proposed entry to the course.

Applicants should normally have obtained a minimum of a Level 3 qualification equivalent to 48 UCAS tariff points. This must be achieved from a minimum of 1 A2 subject (combinations of AS levels will not be accepted) or equivalent i.e. Subsidiary Diploma, Adult Access in Science. Students with Level 3 NVQ qualifications will be considered on their merits but may be required to undertake additional assessment in Maths and English before being accepted onto the course
Applicants must have attained at least 15 points at Level 2 or above (e.g. GCSE) or have alternative approved qualifications. In addition, applicants must provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English Language

The College’s Admissions Policy reflects the expectations of the UK Quality Code May 2023. Please note that applicants progressing to higher education courses at Level 4 and above in the College or UK Universities may require a specific GCSE/A-Level profile. In some cases, the Essential Skills in Literacy and Numeracy may not be a suitable alternative to a GCSE. The list of acceptable qualifications for equivalency to English and mathematics for Ulster University is available from the following link: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/entrance-requirements#eng. It is the responsibility of the applicant to check each University’s progression requirements before enrolling on a course at the College.

Applicants who do not meet the criteria outlined above but have evidence of substantial knowledge or relevant industrial experience and skills, which has not been formally assessed, should refer to the College’s Accreditation of Prior Experience and Learning (APEL) Procedure.

This qualification will open a wide range of career opportunities within the Construction industry. Possible roles may include Site Management, Project Management, Construction Estimator or Construction Technology Specialist.

For further detail on our entry requirements please review our Admissions Policy & Criteria.

Modules include:

Construction Technology 1 - Residential
Introduction to CAD and BIM
Construction Science and Materials
Mathematics and Structures
Digital Surveying
Construction Site Management
Site Supervision and Operations Management
Emerging Construction Technology 2 - Commercial/ Complex Buildings
Individual Project
Contract Administration and Dispute Resolution
Work Related Learning

Students will be assessed continuously throughout the two years of the course. Assessment methods include module exams, reports, case studies and presentations.

Where the exam/awarding body fee is listed as TBC in the full fee breakdown, the information has not yet been released by our partner awarding bodies for 27/28. This fee will be updated as soon as it becomes available.

Fees displayed for each course represent fees to be charged for year 1 of each programme. Please note that fees may increase in year 2 or 3 of the course. Read more in our Fees Policy at https://www.src.ac.uk/about-us...

Successful candidates may progress to the Construction BSc (Hons) Level 6 Degree (Top-Up) offered at the College. Students may also wish to progress onto courses at UK universities dependent on university entry requirements.