We recognise that there are many routes to success at degree level. Our Foundation Year in Built Environment specifically caters for those who lack the traditional entry qualifications to join the first year of a civil engineering, construction or surveying degree.
The foundation year has the benefit of being part of the extended degree. It gives you access to a range of activities and staff on the degree programme that you will continue your studies with.
The Foundation Year in Built Environment is taught at the University and you'll have access to all its facilities.
You'll develop practical, technical and communication skills, and apply knowledge to real-life problems.
The foundation year provides a supportive environment in which you can build your confidence, whilst developing the academic and technical skills alongside the subject knowledge to continue to the degree of your choice.
This foundation year will be available with these courses:
Where taught | Attendance | UCAS code | Year of entry |
---|---|---|---|
Kingston University | 1 year full time | UCAS codes are included on the relevant webpage for the course you would like to study | 2025 |
Main Location | Penrhyn Road |
Throughout the foundation year, you will study a range of subjects relevant to subsequent study in Year 1 of your degree and beyond. These subjects are supported by modules which develop your study and mathematical skills. The broad scope of subjects enables study in a range of subject areas and, in some instances, allows flexibility of choice of intended degree route. Subjects start at an elementary level, and there is a strong emphasis on the development of practical skills. In the Skills Module you will also undertake a project where you focus on a topic relating to your degree subject.
30 credits
This module provides an introduction to the scientific and technological principles applied within the construction industry. It introduces students to the core concepts of material science, structural analysis, and construction technology, focusing on how these disciplines contribute to the design, development, and sustainability of built environments.
Students will engage with material science to understand how construction materials are selected based on their performance characteristics, durability, and environmental impact. Students will receive an introduction to structural learning to assess the safety, strength, and efficiency of different structural systems. The module delves into technological advancements in the construction industry, such as Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Building Information Modelling (BIM), and prefabrication techniques, which are transforming modern construction practices.
30 credits
This module equips students with foundational mathematical knowledge and skills essential for success in the construction and built environment sectors, particularly in civil engineering, surveying, and construction management. The module emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, ensuring that students can confidently apply mathematical techniques to real-world construction scenarios.
30 credits
This module provides an introduction to the diverse fields within the built environment, focusing on civil engineering, building surveying, quantity surveying, and construction management. It offers students a comprehensive overview of key concepts related to the design, construction, and maintenance of built structures, the roles and responsibilities of professionals in the industry, and the regulatory frameworks that govern construction practices. Sustainability and environmental considerations are also emphasised, reflecting modern trends in construction. Through the analysis of case studies, students will gain insights into the challenges and best practices across the industry, including project management processes such as budgeting, scheduling, and quality control.
30 credits
This module is designed to equip students with the foundational skills in construction-related disciplines. It emphasises the development of key competencies that are critical in the modern construction industry, including effective teamwork, communication, computer literacy, and digital proficiency.
Students will engage in a range of practical and interactive activities aimed at enhancing both their individual capabilities and their ability to work within a team. The module will address a broad spectrum of professional skills, from interpersonal communication and collaboration in diverse settings to advanced digital tools that are increasingly used in the construction sector.
Embedded within every course curriculum and throughout the whole Kingston experience, Future Skills will play a role in shaping you to become a future-proof graduate, providing you with the skills most valued by employers such as problem-solving, digital competency, and adaptability.
As you progress through your degree, you'll learn to navigate, explore and apply these graduate skills, learning to demonstrate and articulate to employers how future skills give you the edge.
At Kingston University, we're not just keeping up with change, we're creating it.
Teaching uses a variety of approaches including lectures, seminars and tutorials, workshops and laboratory practical work. Sessions are designed to be active, involving students undertaking small projects and working in groups to solve problems. The use of technology to enhance learning is an important way in which students are supported. Particular emphasis is placed on developing study skills that will help mature applicants who are returning to education and those from non-science backgrounds.
Assessment includes a mixture of coursework and examination. Coursework may take the form of report writing, practical data reports, case studies and presentations with emphasis on real world problems. Examinations take place at the end of the year, giving you the opportunity to settle back into education and the course. The style of assessment provides a natural progression to Year 1 of your chosen degree.
There is a wide range of facilities for practical work at our Penrhyn Road campus, where this course is based. You will have access to a modern environment with the latest equipment, including:
The libraries offer:
Faculty staff have a wide range of experience across research and industry and continue to practise and research at the cutting edge of their discipline. This ensures our courses are current and industry informed, meaning you get the most relevant and up-to-date education possible.
Staff will use their experience and professional networks to hone your skills and shape you into the next generation of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) graduates.
Postgraduate students may run or assist in lab sessions and may also contribute to the teaching of seminars under the supervision of the module leader.
Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs that are not covered by tuition fees which students will need to consider when planning their studies. Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, access to shared IT equipment and other support services. Accommodation and living costs are not included in our fees.
Where a course has additional expenses, we make every effort to highlight them. These may include optional field trips, materials (e.g. art, design, engineering), security checks such as DBS, uniforms, specialist clothing or professional memberships.
Once you have completed this course, you can join a BSc (Hons) or BEng (Hons) degree of your choice at Kingston University in the fields of civil engineering, construction and surveying.
The information on this page reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. To improve your student experience and the quality of your degree, we may review and change the material information of this course. Course changes explained.
Programme Specifications for the course are published ahead of each academic year.
Regulations governing this course can be found on our website.