CONSTRUCTION (DIGITAL CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT) Level 5 Foundation Degree Higher Level Apprenticeship

Level 5
Higher Level Apprenticeship
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.

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
For those entering a Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA), employers may further enhance the entry criteria at their discretion. All applicants for HLAs will be interviewed by prospective employers to decide their suitability prior to being employed by a company. Each applicant must be employed or be about to take up permanent paid employment as an apprentice, or be an existing employee moving to a new job role, with a Northern Ireland based company. All apprentices must work a minimum contract of 21 hours per week (which includes time for ‘off-the-job’ training) and have achieved all necessary entry qualifications determined by the relevant sector. Applicants need to meet other eligibility considerations, for example you may not be eligible if you are a non-EU national, a public sector worker or based on the qualifications you have previously been awarded. Further details can be found at NI Direct

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.

To find out more about the application process for Higher Level Apprenticeships please see Information on Higher Level Apprenticeships.

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

Learners will be assessed continuously throughout the course. Assessment methods include module exams, reports, case studies and presentations.

This Higher Level Apprenticeship is FREE, fully funded by the Department for the Economy.

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