Surveying (Quantity Surveying) MSc
2 Years | Distance Learning | Upcoming Intakes: October 2026, January 2027, April 2027, July 2027

Whether you already work in the industry and want to gain a qualification that will help you take that next step up, or you’re looking to change direction, we've got the online quantity surveyor course for you.

The recommended study time for this course is 15 hours a week, so it is ideal for busy working professionals. Plus, our distance learning delivery and flexible carousel model means you’ll be able to balance your studies alongside any current commitments – no need for a career break or to disrupt your personal life.

Study your course, your way: choose to start in January, April, July or October and get your Masters in quantity surveying within two to four years, depending on how quickly you want to study.

We’ve designed this Masters in partnership with online experts to make sure you get the most flexible and engaging experience possible. We understand all our students are different and lead busy lives. That’s why our focus is on self-paced, interactive learning that will allow you the freedom to study whenever and wherever it suits you. The recommended study time for the course is 15 hours a week. 

You will access all your learning materials through our eLearning portal (elp) Blackboard Ultra. You will study one module at a time. The form of your assessments will vary between modules – they could take the form of an essay or a multiple-choice exam – but all of them will be submitted online. There will be no need to come to campus throughout the duration of your course. 

Each of our modules has been carefully designed to ensure you gain the knowledge you need about that topic in the most effective, most engaging way. However, all of them will be split into multiple sessions and follow a three-stage structure: Learn, Explore and Apply. In each teaching week, you’ll have the chance to engage with interactive tools and media, ranging from text-based to video/audio (“Learn”), as well as complete online readings (“Explore”) in your own time. There will also be the chance to test yourself and receive formative feedback. 

You’ll join a supportive, lively online community. Throughout the course, you will participate in virtual discussion boards with your academics and fellow students, sharing your thoughts, knowledge and experience with them as you learn (“Apply”). In addition, you will be able to attend live webinars on key aspects of the module and its delivery/structure, such as assessments. These sessions will offer you the chance to engage with your tutors in real time and ask any questions you have about the course. If you are unable to attend these scheduled sessions, they will also be recorded so you can watch them at a time that works for you.   

As well as the support of your module tutors and fellow students, you’ll have access to our Student Success Team from day one through to graduation. Whether you need pastoral guidance, help with assessments or advice about fees, they will be with you at every step. Blackboard Ultra also offers 24/7 access to a range of advice and support services, such as Ask4Help, too. 

You will also be able to access over half a million books and e-books through our online University Library Services.

You’ll be taught by tutors with years of experience in the surveying sector. Their industry knowledge, combined with their on-going research, will provide the best foundation for your quantity surveyor career.

Plus, in the Building and Town and Country Planning subject area in The Guardian 2021 University Rankings, Northumbria have moved up to 9th place up from 20th the previous year.

Get to know some of our module tutors below.

Throughout the course, your learning will be directly impacted by the teaching team’s active research. You’ll also be supported to develop your own research skills, alongside your knowledge of your chosen surveying specialism; our Research Methods module will provide you with the quantity surveyor training needed to prepare an extensive professional research project. You’ll then put these new skills into practice when you complete a dissertation on a topic of your choice.

During your time with us, you’ll build the industry understanding and transferable skills needed to advance your career, even if you’re new to surveying.

Our reputation for quality is reflected in our strong links and collaborations with industry partners, such as RICS and the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH). Experienced practitioners help to influence our academic content, ensuring our students develop the knowledge employers need them to have.

You’ll also improve your interpersonal and research skills, plus your ability to tackle complex issues through conceptualisation, contribute to new processes and  use judgement when considering ambiguous data – all highly valuable traits to employers.

Our Careers and Employment Service offers a range of resources and support, available online and on a one-to-one basis, for you to tap into.

Successful completion of this Masters in quantity surveying could also lead you to a Postgraduate Research Degree.

Learn more about the different career paths available in the sector.