MSc - Construction Project Management

Sarah Brookbank is no stranger to the University. Working full-time in our busy Estates Department, she knew just how much the University had to offer. So where better to study for her part-time, RICS accredited postgraduate qualification?

Demanding …. but rewarding
“I really did not know what to expect from a postgraduate construction degree but I knew it would be a big jump up from the HNC I completed in 2006, in terms of studying time and dedication,” says Sarah. “It has taken up a lot of time as you are expected to do a lot of self-taught study, but I have enjoyed this.”

Real experience – a real benefit
“I work full-time on the University's City Centre Campus project alongside doing this course,” explains Sarah. “It has been very beneficial doing this as I have been able to use a lot of my work experience as case studies in my academic coursework.” She’s found her work experience “extremely useful in all aspects of the course, which requires a consistent blend of theory, literature and practice.” Lively discussions on construction’s cultural, social, technological and legal issues with fellow students were a valuable part of the learning process.

Expert and approachable staff
Sarah is full of praise for her course staff. “I can honestly say that all the staff I have met are very approachable. The support we receive for completing our dissertation is also excellent… and we’re given tutors whose expertise suits the topic we have chosen. It is a proactive faculty, constantly reviewing and researching into the most up-to-date construction news to enable them to pass the latest industry knowledge onto the students. Birmingham City University is very focused on the student experience and employability.”

Awards and ambitions
Sarah’s clearly doing something right. She’s recently received an impressive Urban Design for Excellence Award in ‘Issues and Culture in Design and Construction Management'. So what’s next? “After completing my accredited course I am hoping to work towards my professional accreditation with the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors,” says Sarah.