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BSc (Hons)International Construction, Design and Sustainability (Top-up)

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Starting in: 2025
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UCAS code: ID14
Institution code: S30
Campus: Southampton City CentreView on Google Maps

Why study an international construction, design and sustainability top-up degree at Solent University

Build on the foundations of your international construction career with this 1-year top-up degree. Taught by an experienced team - be part of a leading, sustainable, construction industry.

  • £0m
    investment in our campus and industry-standard facilities
  • 0st
    out of 130 institutions for assessment and feedback (NSS 2023)
  • 0th
    university in the UK for low carbon emissions (THE 2023)
  • Top up your Level 5 qualification to a degree in just a year.
  • This course is tailored to the needs of international students, improving your understanding of built environment roles and their application within the global construction industry.
  • This degree provides an excellent route into postgraduate study in the UK.
  • Gain an insight into the international construction industry through client projects, case studies, and work shadowing opportunities which are all built into the curriculum.
  • Study under the guidance of an experienced teaching team and learn about the increasingly important role sustainability plays in the success of modern construction projects.

Course overview

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.

Any questions?

Contact UK admissions

Email: admissions@solent.ac.ukCall: 023 8201 5066

Contact international admissions

Email: admissions.international@solent.ac.ukCall: +44 (0)23 8201 5066

Course features

  • Top-up option

    If you have an appropriate Level 5 qualification, you can top it up to a degree in just a year

  • Specialist facilities

    This course has access to specialist facilities

Who is this course for?

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.

What does this course lead to?

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.

Meet the team

The course team come from a range of professional backgrounds, holding many years’ experience in both the construction industry and higher education. They are actively involved with industry, working on academic research and filling committee positions at professional bodies.

The University cannot guarantee any particular members of staff will teach specific aspects of the course in the future, but will endeavour to ensure the teaching team maintains their balance of experience and qualifications.

Facilities

Our modern studio space has been developed to mirror the feel and atmosphere of a working professional studio. This encourages students from various different built environment courses to come together and collaborate on multidisciplinary projects, just as they would in the workplace. Solent is home to a range of construction labs, drawing studios and surveying equipment. Students also have access to a dedicated architectural technology studio. This space is fully equipped with AutoCAD, Revit, Google SketchUp Pro, plotters, large-format scanners, laser cutters, 3D printer and digital cameras.

Our vibrant campus brings state-of-the-art facilities to enhance your learning and elevate your student experience. Our award-winning teaching building, The Spark is centred around students and offers a stimulating study environment with flexible learning spaces. Away from studying, why not try out the gyms, fitness studios and sports halls in our £28 million Sports Complex, or watch a blockbuster film at our student-run cinema with Dolby Atmos audio.

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