MSc Commercial Building Surveying | Part-time
- Entry year:
- 2026/27
- Start date:
- September
- Study mode:
- Part-time
- Course duration:
- 2 years
- Campus:
- City
About this course
All Commercial Building Surveying professionals will benefit from LJMU's RICS accredited Masters course, providing direct entry to the RICS APC training programme.
- Benefit from the internationally recognised research in our Built Environment and Sustainable Technologies (BEST) Research Institute
- Study on a course accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
- Look forward to direct entrance on to the RICS APC professional training programme on graduation
- Network with industry professionals using our state-of-the-art learning technology
- Option to study full-time
Designed as a conversion course for holders of non-cognate first degrees, this programme focuses on developing an awareness of technical, legal and management issues. You'll gain the professional and sound technical understanding required to operate successfully in a strategic business environment and you'll be able to specialise in a subject of your choice during your dissertation.
All course lecturers are dedicated to providing the best opportunities to develop your skillset. Staff come from a variety of backgrounds and have years of industry experience to pass on to you. They also carry out internationally recognised research into various aspects of the discipline.
Indeed it is this research and our extensive links with professional bodies and employers, that ensure all of our postgraduate degrees are industry-focused, globally relevant and at the forefront of knowledge development in this field.
Throughout the course you will have the support of a personal tutor to provide you with one-to-one guidance and advice. On graduation you will have the professional accreditation and networks, in addition to the skills and techniques, to progress quickly in this dynamic field.
Thomas' story
In the last year of his History degree at Bath Spa University Tom developed an interest in property which led him to a Masters in Commercial Building Surveying at LJMU.
After my undergraduate degree I got some experience working with building surveyors and decided it was an area I wanted to move into. John Moores has a great reputation for built environment courses so I decided to study here.
I knew I would be fine with the journal and report writing side of things but realised that the technical support would be key. The lecturers have been great. They are all very keen on their subject areas which makes lectures really enjoyable. There is also a lot of variety in the course and, of course, it has great links with industry.
The support on offer at LJMU is excellent, not only in terms of the subject staff, but also the library staff who have been invaluable in terms of accessing online resources.
Working alongside my studies has enabled me to put my learning into practice on a daily basis. It has been a challenging experience but very rewarding. In terms of Masters study, so long as you do your preparation in advance and work hard throughout your course you’ll certainly be able to do it.
Course modules
Discover the building blocks of your programme
This course is currently undergoing its scheduled programme review, which may impact the advertised modules. Programme review is a standard part of the University’s approach to quality assurance and enhancement, enabling us to ensure that our courses remain up to date and maintain their high standard and relevancy.
Once the review is completed, this course website page will be updated to reflect any approved changes to the advertised course. These approved changes will also be communicated to those who apply for the course to ensure they wish to proceed with their application.
Your programme is made up of a number of core modules which are part of the course framework. Some programmes also have optional modules that can be selected to enhance your learning in certain areas and many feature a dissertation, extended report or research project to demonstrate your advanced learning.
Further guidance on modules
Modules are designated core or optional in accordance with professional body requirements, as applicable, and LJMU’s Academic Framework Regulations. Whilst you are required to study core modules, optional modules provide you with an element of choice. Their availability may vary and will be subject to meeting minimum student numbers.
Where changes to modules are necessary these will be communicated as appropriate.
Core modules
Research Methods
10 credits
10 credits
This module focuses on your critical understanding of the research process. In preparation for your research study, it also develops skills in research design, implementation and presentation. You will come to understand the differing techniques, strategies and methods used to undertake research in the built environment.
Dissertation
60 credits
60 credits
This module develops and tests your ability to prepare a dissertation, based on the study of a subject related to your chosen discipline within the built environment. Dissertation preparation normally takes place after completion of the Postgraduate Diploma stage.
Building Technology
20 credits
20 credits
This module enables you to understand and evaluate the principles and techniques used in the construction of buildings. You will gain a critical understanding of the properties and performance of building materials required and will come to appreciate the importance and complexity of building construction and technology. You will also investigate the decision making process involved in specifying the correct materials and integrating appropriate building services, in accordance with approved building regulations.
Building Surveys and Dilapidations
20 credits
20 credits
This module introduces the students to building surveying practice and enables students to develop a critical understanding and application of property surveys and inspections. To negotiate dilapidation claims through the interrogation of commercial property leases.
Sustainable Design Management
20 credits
20 credits
This module aims to develop a strategic appreciation and critical application of sustainable and inclusive design for the refurbishment of commercial buildings aligned with regulatory and client requirements.
Building Management
10 credits
10 credits
This module will provide you the opportunity to examine the process of acquiring property, and the effective management and maintenance of commercial property holdings.
Law for Surveyors
20 credits
20 credits
This module aims to enable the students to develop knowledge and understanding of the legal and professional environment within which surveying practitioners operate. To develop a critical appreciation of legal principles governing ownership and occupation of land and property.
Collaborative BIM Project
20 credits
20 credits
The module is an opportunity for students to follow BIM protocols and practice in a collaborative multidisciplinary project team to achieve project success.
Professional body recognition
Accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
Your Learning Experience
An insight into teaching on your course
Study hours
You can expect to spend around 12 hours each week in lectures.
Teaching Methods
You will learn via lectures, laboratory work, tutorials, workshops and practical sessions, combined with your own research using our library and the web.
Applied Learning
In addition to the School's extensive and long-standing links with the profession, this MSc course has its own direct links with industry through a special lectures programme, featuring a highly experienced team of practitioners from across the UK. This offers you great networking opportunities with key contacts along with the opportunity to engage with the latest thinking and practice in the sector.
How learning is monitored on your programme
To cater for the wide-ranging content of our courses and the varied learning preferences of our students, we offer a range of assessment methods on each programme.
Assessment methods on this programme include: examinations, coursework (e.g. projects, technical reports, reviews), and presentations (individual and group).
Where you will study
This programme is based in the City Campus. Besides well-equipped workshops, we have: a structural testing laboratory, a concrete laboratory, a radio frequency and microwave laboratory, a highways research laboratory, an industrial chemistry laboratory, a soil mechanics laboratory, hydraulics laboratory, surveying laboratory, light structure and materials laboratory, building information modelling (BIM) software and expertise and smart homes.
Course tutors
Dr. Mohammed T. Qabshoqa is the Interim Programme Leader in Property at Liverpool John Moores University, where he brings a unique blend of expertise in digital design, Building Information Modelling (BIM), and advanced architectural technologies to the academic delivery within the School of Civil Engineering and Built Environment. His work is particularly relevant as the property industry increasingly embraces digital innovation, making it essential for professionals in commercial building surveying and real estate to stay ahead of technological advancements.
Dr. Qabshoqa is passionate about integrating technology in creative ways, with a specific focus on how tools like BIM, 3D design, and virtual and augmented reality can transform the built environment. His commitment to these technologies ensures that students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to excel in a digital-first industry, where the ability to navigate and implement these tools is becoming increasingly critical.
In addition to his academic leadership, Dr. Qabshoqa has a strong research background, including a PhD in Architecture from the University of Liverpool, where he focused on the application of Big Data and the Internet of Things in architectural practices. He also holds a Master of Science in Digital Architectural Design from the University of Salford, further demonstrating his dedication to the convergence of technology and architecture.
Beyond his academic and professional roles, Dr. Qabshoqa is deeply interested in the practical applications of emerging technologies, from 3D printing to gaming and immersive environments, which he believes have the potential to revolutionise the property and real estate sectors.
I enjoy working with diverse and engaging students who are passionate about a career in the built environment. I like working with industry and academic leaders around the world to deliver cutting edge research projects that influence industry best practice and feed directly into teaching materials.
Postgraduate research opportunities
At LJMU, you can take the next step in your academic journey with a PhD or MPhil, available on a full-time or part-time basis. International students also have the option to study remotely.
- PhD duration: Up to 4 years full-time, or up to 7 years part-time
- Funding options: Choose between funded projects (with supervisors already in place) or self-funded study
Our Doctoral Academy is here to support you every step of the way—from your first enquiry through to successful completion—working closely with Schools, Faculties, and Professional Services.
For more details on postgraduate research and full details on how to apply, visit the Doctoral Academy website.
Career paths
Further your career prospects
LJMU has an excellent employability record with 97% of our postgraduates in work or further study fifteen months after graduation (Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2025). Our applied learning techniques and strong industry connections ensure our students are fully prepared for the workplace on graduation and understand how to apply their knowledge in a real world context.
When you graduate with an MSc in Commercial Building Surveying you will be eligible for direct entrance on to the RICS APC professional training programme which can then lead to full Chartered status. Our graduates usually progress to professional training programmes and roles within construction organisations, public and private businesses.
Tuition fees and funding
- Part-time per credit:
- £60
Fees
The fees quoted above cover registration, tuition, supervision, assessment and examinations as well as library membership and student IT support with access to printed, multimedia and digital resources including programme-appropriate software and on campus wifi.
Financial Support
There are many ways to fund postgraduate study for home and international students. From loans to International Scholarships and subject-specific funding, you’ll find all of the information you need on our specialist postgraduate funding pages. The University offers a range of financial support for students. You'll find all the information you need on our specialist financial support pages including details of the Student Support Fund and other activities to support with the cost of living.
Additional Costs
In addition to fees, students should also keep in mind the cost of:
- Accommodation
- Travel costs and field trips unless paid for by LJMU
- Stationery, IT equipment, professional body membership and graduation gown hire
Entry requirements
You will need:
Qualification requirements
Undergraduate degree
- a minimum 2:2 honours degree
or
- an equivalent professional qualification with appropriate work experience
Further information
-
RPL
- RPL is accepted on this programme
International requirements
IELTS
- IELTS English language requirement: 6.5 (minimum 5.5 in each component)
Further information
-
RPL
- RPL is accepted on this programme
Please Note: All international qualifications are subject to a qualification equivalency check.
How to apply
Securing your place at LJMU
To apply for this programme, you are required to complete an LJMU online application form. You will need to provide details of previous qualifications and a personal statement outlining why you wish to study this programme.
You need to demonstrate that you have a sufficient level of knowledge to embark on the programme and to complete it within the time limits. You should provide evidence, at the interview stage, of your learning capabilities and commitment to a postgraduate programme of study.
Applications from non-standard applicants are welcomed. In exceptional circumstances applications by mature healthcare practitioners without sufficient qualifications will be considered.
Your university life
From accommodation and academic support to clubs and societies. Find out what LJMU has to offer.
Related Links
Talk to our students
Connect with a current LJMU student for advice and guidance on university life, courses and more.
See what our students are saying
At LJMU we want you to know you’re making the right choice by studying with us. You can see what our students are saying about their experience with us through their reviews on the following websites:
News and views
Browse through the latest news and stories from the university
The University reserves the right to withdraw or make alterations to a course and facilities if necessary; this may be because such changes are deemed to be beneficial to students, are minor in nature and unlikely to impact negatively upon students or become necessary due to circumstances beyond the control of the University. Where this does happen, the University operates a policy of consultation, advice and support to all enrolled students affected by the proposed change to their course or module.