KA3003 - Building Pathology

What will I learn on this module?

This module is intended to introduce you to approaches to building surveys and appraisal through the investigation of structural defects in buildings. You will examine the role and function of the surveyor within the context of the built environment, and will explore the work practices of the surveyor at practical and professional level.

How will I learn on this module?

Throughout the module, the basic information will be delivered by a series of lectures supported by informal (where possible) studio/workshop sessions where the practical application of theoretical knowledge will be examined within the context of building surveying profession. The use of practical-based coursework philosophy will reinforce the diverse and creative aspects of the building surveying profession and fundamentals of team working.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

The module will be delivered in a blend of lectures, smaller seminar groups, small tutorial groups and workshops. Extensive use will be made of the electronic learning portal (ELP) to support and complement the classroom and workplace activity.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:
MLO1 Outline the role of surveyors in survey and appraisal.
MLO2 Appraise the tools and techniques of defects analysis.
MLO3 Describe construction forms and materials

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
MLO4 Communicate using the tools and techniques appropriate to construction professional.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
MLO5 You will develop the theory and execution of reflective practice

How will I be assessed?

Summative assessment will be provided in your Building Pathology Portfolio (3000 words equivalent) comprising both written and graphical components to reflect the learning outcomes.

This will assess MLOs 1-5.

Formative assessment will be given in lectures, seminars and one to one tutorials.

Advice will be given into how to improve proposed submissions.

Pre-requisite(s)

None

Co-requisite(s)

None

Module abstract

This module is aimed at students who have an interest in the buildings we live in and use. The module will focus on the activities of a building surveyor and their role within the built environment.

You will be introduced to the design and development of new buildings as well as the restoration and maintenance of existing ones. This is a very wide field and may include advising on various aspects of buildings at different stages.

The learning outcomes of the module may range from the design of large, multimillion-pound structures to modest adaptations and repairs, and sometimes includes working with buildings of architectural or historic importance.

You will investigate preventative measures to keep buildings in good condition and look for ways to make buildings sustainable.

The module will look at how you become a Charteded Surveyor and the role of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. You will use a range of surveying equipment to diagnose defects and investigate how buildings operate, including electronic damp meters, window testing equipment,thermal imaging cameras, borescopes, etc.

Learning will be undertaken both in the classroom and (where possible) on real life buildings, giving you the opportunity to get a better understanding on the diverse nature of the profession.

On completion of this module you should have a good basic appreciation of building pathology. This is a natural stepping stone if you intend to progress on to the building surveying degree programme.

Course info

UCAS Code Z035

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 4 years Full Time or 5 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad

School Architecture and Built Environment

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2027

Fee Information

Module Information

Accuracy of information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

How your course is delivered

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

Changes to your course

Most courses run as described on our website and in our marketing materials. Occasionally we may need to make changes, for example due to a change in the law or regulatory requirements, requirements of a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body, or our quality assurance processes. Where a change is significant (in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's guidance on "substantial changes"), we will consult with affected students in advance where the change is being decided, and will explain the reason for the change and inform you at the earliest opportunity.

If we make a significant variation to your programme, you are entitled to: request a transfer to an alternative, appropriate programme; withdraw and have your tuition fees adjusted; or raise a complaint through the Student Complaints Procedure.

Optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year. Where a module you selected is withdrawn, the options above apply.

Contact time

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

Images and video

The photography and video on this page are used for illustration. They may have been taken at different times and in different parts of the University, and may show facilities, equipment, staff, students or activities that are not part of this course. They are not a guarantee of the specific facilities or equipment you will use.

The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies.

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Admissions Complaints Policy
northumbria.ac.uk/complaints

Any Questions?

Our Applicant Services team will be happy to help. They can be contacted on 0191 406 0901 or by using our Contact Form.

Accuracy of information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

How your course is delivered

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

Changes to your course

Most courses run as described on our website and in our marketing materials. Occasionally we may need to make changes, for example due to a change in the law or regulatory requirements, requirements of a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body, or our quality assurance processes. Where a change is significant (in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's guidance on "substantial changes"), we will consult with affected students in advance where the change is being decided, and will explain the reason for the change and inform you at the earliest opportunity.

If we make a significant variation to your programme, you are entitled to: request a transfer to an alternative, appropriate programme; withdraw and have your tuition fees adjusted; or raise a complaint through the Student Complaints Procedure.

Optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year. Where a module you selected is withdrawn, the options above apply.

Contact time

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

Images and video

The photography and video on this page are used for illustration. They may have been taken at different times and in different parts of the University, and may show facilities, equipment, staff, students or activities that are not part of this course. They are not a guarantee of the specific facilities or equipment you will use.

The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies.

Accessibility and Student Inclusion

Northumbria University is committed to developing an inclusive, diverse and accessible campus and wider University community and are determined to ensure that opportunities we provide are open to all.

We are proud to work in partnership with AccessAble to provide Detailed Access Guides to our buildings and facilities across our City, Coach Lane and London Campuses. A Detailed Access Guide lets you know what access will be like when you visit somewhere. It looks at the route you will use getting in and what is available inside. All guides have Accessibility Symbols that give you a quick overview of what is available, and photographs to show you what to expect. The guides are produced by trained surveyors who visit our campuses annually to ensure you have trusted and accurate information.

You can use Northumbria’s AccessAble Guides anytime to check the accessibility of a building or facility and to plan your routes and journeys. Search by location, building or accessibility feature to find the information you need.

We are dedicated to helping students who may require additional support during their student journey and offer 1-1 advice and guidance appropriate to individual requirements. If you feel you may need additional support you can find out more about what we offer here where you can also contact us with any questions you may have:

Accessibility support

Student Inclusion support