International Construction, Design and Sustainability (Top - Up)

Working in construction? Ready to take the next step in your career? This top-up course - designed for international students who want to earn a university qualification here in the UK - will help you to turn your existing experience into a valuable bachelor’s degree. You’ll study a curriculum that is tailored to the needs of international students, improving your understanding of built environment roles and their application within the global construction industry.

Core topics (including construction technology, design and project management) frame an in-depth study of sustainability and environmental impact. By working on industry projects and case-studies, you will have the opportunity to apply the things you’ve learned to real workplace scenarios. Additional training covers communication, resilience, self-awareness and teamwork; all of which are applicable to the professional construction environment.

The course team come from a range of professional backgrounds, holding many years’ experience in both higher education and the construction industry. They are actively involved with their industry colleagues, working on academic research and holding committee positions at a range of professional bodies. Opportunities to shadow professionals in the workplace have been built into the curriculum

As an overseas student, you will be well supported as you adapt to life in the UK. You’ll benefit from regular contact with both a student ‘buddy’ and an allocated course tutor. Your course tutor will assess your skills and knowledge, providing you with tailored support throughout the year.

The course is part of a well-respected and recognised programme, endorsed by our large network of employers. Many of our past students have found work through this network, putting future graduates in a good position to confidently seek employment.

Study under the guidance of an experienced teaching team. Learn about the increasingly important role sustainability plays in the success of modern construction projects.

The construction programme here at Solent has been running for over 25 years. The course draws on a wide alumni network to improve relationships with employers. Many of our alumni are now employers themselves.

Construction is a major source of employment both in the UK and abroad. There are opportunities for global travel and no two jobs are the same. Suitable roles for graduates include:

Construction/project manager
Site manager
Quantity surveyor
Building control surveyor
Facilities manager

This course is specifically designed to help international students to advance their career in construction. Applicants should have either:

a foundation degree or HND in a relevant built environment subject area,
a Chinese Associate/Ordinary Diploma with a suitable profile in key subjects, or
a portfolio of equivalent qualifications.
Applicants who do not have English as their first language will be required to demonstrate an appropriate level of proficiency in the use of the English language.

YEAR 1 - CORE MODULES
International Construction and Design
Integrated Project
Academic and Professional Practice
Project Research Paper
Sustainable Construction and Design

YEAR 1 - OPTIONS (please note that not all options are guaranteed to run each academic year)
Professional Practice and Communication
Building Production

The majority of the course is assessed via coursework (83%). The remaining grade is made up of practical exams (17%). Coursework includes case studies, live briefs, access workshops and conference papers.