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Building Pathology

  • Level(s) of Study: Professional / Short course
  • Course Fee:

    £995

  • Start Date(s): 30 January 2024
  • Duration: Tuesday mornings, term-time only (typically 9 am - 12 noon), 30 January - 14 May 2024
  • Study Mode(s): Part-time
  • Campus: City Campus
  • Entry Requirements:
    More information

Introduction:

There are essentially two dimensions to the building surveying profession – the organisation of building work and the assessment of the condition of existing buildings.

The focus of this course is the diagnosis of building defects in existing buildings, which is an essential part of the building surveyor’s work, often referred to as building pathology.


The knowledge required for building pathology is an understanding of basic building technology and how and why buildings and materials fail.

The aim of this course is therefore to teach you the principles of structural failure, the properties of building materials and how materials deteriorate as a result of various environmental factors.

In addition, you'll learn about the various types of inspection that building surveyors undertake, and the role of surveyor in preparing schedules of dilapidations and acting as an expert witness.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:

  • analyse, evaluate and interpret complex information in a systematic, critical and creative way
  • make logical recommendations based on information available
  • identify and solve problems
  • generate new ideas, innovations and solutions
  • communicate information, ideas and concepts effectively in a clear fashion, using the appropriate IT
  • demonstrate improved personal and interpersonal skills, and be able to work constructively in a team
  • apply ethical and professional values.

A CPD certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the course.

Successful completion can also contribute 15 credits towards a postgraduate award.

What you’ll study

This course will include:

  • an introduction to building pathology
  • behaviour, performance and degradations of buildings and building materials
  • structural appraisal and types of building inspection
  • the equipment used by surveyors
  • how and why builds move, and how to diagnose a crack
  • the impact of dampness, condensation, timber infestation and decay, concrete failure, and flood damage
  • advanced inspection techniques and survey reports
  • legislations, technical standards and professional ethics in construction
  • preparation of schedules of dilapidations.

How you’re taught

Teaching and learning will take place using a flexible programme of lectures, workshops, seminars and tutorials.

Campus and facilities

Entry requirements

Level: Professional/postgraduate

Entry Requirements: You should have a minimum of three years’ professional experience and have the support of your employer to integrate study and projects into your day-to-day work.

You will probably be employed on significant infrastructure or building works, with experience of developing and coordinating projects.

If you wish to receive credit, you should also have a 2:2 honours degree in a construction-related subject.

Applicants with non-standard entry qualifications and/or relevant experience will be considered on an individual basis.

Getting in touch

If you need more help or information, get in touch through our enquiry form

Level: Professional/postgraduate

Entry Requirements: You should have a minimum of three years’ professional experience and have the support of your employer to integrate study and projects into your day-to-day work.

You will probably be employed on significant infrastructure or building works, with experience of developing and coordinating projects.

If you wish to receive credit, you should also have a 2:2 honours degree in a construction-related subject.

Applicants with non-standard entry qualifications and/or relevant experience will be considered on an individual basis.

Fees and funding

The fee for this course is £995.

Payment is due before the course starts.

The fee for this course is £995.

Payment is due before the course starts.

How to apply

Please read the guidance notes and complete the application form.

You should then email your form to be considered by the academic team.

Please read our notes on the University's commitment to delivering the educational services advertised.

Please read the guidance notes and complete the application form.

You should then email your form to be considered by the academic team.

Please read our notes on the University's commitment to delivering the educational services advertised.