Stage 1: University Foundation

Modules

Click below for more information on each module

• Interactive Learning Skills and Communication

  Throughout this module you will learn about:

  • Time management
  • Public speaking techniques
  • Listening skills
  • Appropriate language styles
  • Clear writing techniques (plain English, factual and persuasive writing)
  • The importance of writing style
  • How to create appropriate and effective document layouts
  • Professional communication and presentation
  • Examination techniques and skills
  • How to communicate effectively to a variety of audiences
  • How to work effectively as a team member and as an individual
  • How to apply basic research and referencing techniques to formulate reasoned academic opinion so as to avoid plagiarism

  You will be assessed via a variety of methods, including:

  • A research project – referencing a topic and using a variety of techniques and resources
  • An individual presentation
  • Two group presentations
  • A listening assessment
  • A 2-hour closed book exam

• Numerical Techniques 1

  This module will introduce you to basic mathematics and mathematical applications – including equations, algebraic problems and trigonometry.

  You will be assessed via two closed book exams: one 90-minute in class, and one 2-hour.

• Numerical Techniques 2

  This module covers a variety of numerical techniques associated with basic number theory, including:

  • Cartesian coordinates
  • Indices
  • Logarithms
  • Polynomial, quadratic and simultaneous equations
  • Sequences
  • Geometric progressions
  • Differentiation
  • Integration

  You will be assessed via two closed book exams: one 90-minute in class, and one 2-hour.

• Physics 1

  This module defines the basic laws of physics. You will learn how to describe the fundamentals of mechanics and thermofluid mechanics.

  You will be assessed via two closed book exams: one 90-minute in class, and one 2-hour.

• ICT Skills

  This module will introduce you to the concepts of ICT skills in the context of technology, engineering and the environment – including applications and reporting mechanisms.

  You will be assessed via a variety of methods, including:

  • Four 20-minute multiple choice tests in class
  • An assignment on key Microsoft Word and Excel skills
  • A 2-hour closed book exam

• Design Concepts

  This module will introduce you to design, the importance of design and the fundamentals of technical drawing.

  You will be assessed via three methods:

  • A designated civil design project in the form of a written report (1,000 words), including sketches and annotated drawings
  • Class presentation based on the project and concept, supported with a poster
  • A 2-hour closed book exam

• Programming Techniques

  This module covers the fundamentals of programing, how it is used and how it contributes to the engineering process and solves engineering problems. You will also learn about the purpose and processes of object-orientated programing, as well as gaining an introductory understanding of JAVA.

  • Three 20-minute multiple choice tests in class
  • A written assignment based on testing problems and developing code to solve them
  • A 2-hour closed book exam

• Business Studies

  You will learn to define what a business is and its functions in relation to the different types of business costs. You will also be introduced to marketing, the marketing mix and product life cycle.

  You will be assessed via a variety of methods, including:

  • A written business plan, and group presentation of the business plan
  • A 1-hour test in class
  • A written marketing research report, and group presentation of the report
  • A 2-hour closed book exam

Stage 2: First Year Degree

You will study alongside Birmingham City University students on your chosen degree course. For information on the modules you will be studying, click on your chosen degree in the list below and the ‘Find out more’ link, then select the ‘Course in Depth’ tab.

In addition to your BCU modules, you will also study an additional support module with BCUIC called Interactive Learning Skills and Communication.

Stage 3: Second Year Degree

Stage 4: Final Year Degree

Birmingham City University Degree Pathways

Click below for more information on each pathway

• BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology

  • Now is an exciting time to study architecture and design in Birmingham, as the city is undergoing a huge urban regeneration and there will be lots of site visit opportunities.
  • The course is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) and the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).
  • You will have access to industry-standard facilities including Computer-Assisted Design (CAD) 2 and 3D, and the Building Information Modelling (BIM) environment.
    Find out more

• BSc (Hons) Building Surveying

  • The course is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
  • You will have access to a range of work placement opportunities, with employers such as Willmott Dixon.
  • Previous graduates have gained employment in roles including Assistant Building Surveyor and Building Manager.
    Find out more

• BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering

  • You will learn about building power stations, bridges and motorways, as well as gaining essential knowledge of hydraulics – enhanced through site visits and field trips.
  • The course meets the specific requirements of professional bodies, enabling you to progress to becoming a chartered Civil Engineer.
  • Previous graduates have gone on to work for companies like Balfour Beatty in roles such as Construction Manager and Design Engineer.
    Find out more

• BSc (Hons) Construction Management

  • The content of the course has been developed in line with the requirements of two professional bodies: the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).
  • You will have access to a range of work placement opportunities, with employers such as Willmott Dixon.
  • Birmingham City University ranks in the UK’s Top 10 for Land and Property Management courses (University Subject Tables 2017).
    Find out more

• BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying

  • The course is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
  • You will have access to a range of work placement opportunities, with employers such as Willmott Dixon.
  • Previous graduates have gained employment in roles such as Quantity Surveyor and Assistant Commercial Manager.
    Find out more

• BSc (Hons) Real Estate

  • This course is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
  • The course is based in Millennium Point – part of the University’s City Centre Campus – which houses over £11 million worth of computer equipment.
  • Previous graduates have gained employment in property investment roles with companies such as Dasani Property Services and IP Global.
    Find out more

Special entry requirements

• Students must have a Mathematics qualification at GCSE-level or equivalent with a Grade C/4.