Why study with CEM? read what our students think

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1 Why study with CEM? read what our students think supported online learning with cem.ac.uk

2 Cover image: Lucy Winzer, BSc (Hons) Estate Management Why CEM? We offer accessible, relevant and cost effective education You ll study with a leading supported online provider of real estate and construction degrees You ll be able to choose from a range of modules that allow you to map your career pathway You ll be able to earn while you learn, spreading the cost of the degree and enhancing your career You ll be supported every step of the way by our tutors and professional support staff.

3 Welcome to The College of Estate Management, I m delighted that you are considering a future with us. At CEM we are dedicated to ensuring our students success. Our whole team is entirely student focussed and our priority is to help our students achieve their goals and prosper in their careers. Since 1919 we have educated over 150,000 students in more than 100 countries. Many of our students are now working in very senior roles across the globe, playing their part in influencing all aspects of real estate and construction. This booklet reflects the views of some of our alumni, and I hope that their comments and stories will inspire you to consider or further develop a career in the built environment. Mr Ashley Wheaton, CEM Principal and CEO supported online learning with cem.ac.uk

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5 I was already well aware of The College of Estate Management (CEM) before undertaking the degree in Estate Management (now Real Estate Management), having previously completed the Diploma in Surveying Practice. The degree was therefore the next logical step for me, and key to being able to obtain chartered status. I was referred to CEM by both my employer and my training advisor at the Chartered Surveyors Training Trust, not long after commencing employment, both of whom considered the College to be the best place for surveying based qualifications. Personally, the academic reputation and flexibility of the College were particularly attractive. The ability to work full time whilst learning was also paramount, acquiring the key technical skills alongside professional expertise. The importance of this academic and experienced based relationship became very apparent for me at the outset of the recession, with many of my peer surveyors who had studied full time courses struggling to find employers willing to take them on, whilst my fellow students and I had a choice of positions. The faceless nature of the course may be concerning to some students - however you are never really alone. The online student forums provide a fantastic way to talk to fellow students all over the world, asking those seemably stupid questions everyone wants to ask and bouncing assignments ideas off each other, steered ably by the tutors. For me, as a commercial valuer, the most enjoyable subjects were the valuation topics. The material taught provided an exceptional technical base which was highly relevant to my work in practice, and combined with the experience gained throughout working during the degree, has led to success both professionally and academically. Distance learning is certainly not the easy option; it requires dedication and perseverance. However, if you are willing to apply yourself, the rewards are great. It is only in hindsight that I have realised just how much the course has improved my employability. Undoubtedly, employers recognise that it requires a certain level of self discipline and aptitude to undertake the course, and consequently a person who succeeds is extremely well regarded within the profession. I cannot recommend the degree more highly for fellow aspirational surveyors. Lucy Winzer, BSc (Hons) Estate Management Estate Surveyor, Pret A Manger, UK

6 After 22 years in the Royal Navy, I started my second career by enrolling on the BSc (Hons) Estate Management (now Real Estate Management) course with The College of Estate Management. Having studied with a number of external learning providers, I was very impressed with how well organised the College s programmes were. All courses are designed for remote study and are particularly well suited to the regular displacement of Servicemen. My qualification is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors; the leading institute for property professionals worldwide. The course is extremely well run, very interesting and relevant to the profession I am now working in. The tutors are very knowledgeable, patient and committed. Coursework deadlines are always advertised well in advance and the online resources, including the e-library, are very comprehensive. Kirk Davidson, BSc (Hons) Estate Management Graduate Surveyor, Bruton Knowles, UK

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8 I chose to study with The College of Estate Management (CEM) because of its academic reputation in the property profession, and enrolled on a master s degree to gain a deeper understanding of property development. The course, and my association with CEM, has been an absolute pleasure from the beginning. The quality of professional-led teaching, a firstclass syllabus, depth and clarity of teaching materials and the immense support given has been much appreciated. I am based in Hong Kong, so online learning was most convenient; allowing flexibility of time and place. I hold a senior position in my company and the modular approach of the course enabled me to complete the course at a pace that allowed me to maintain my responsibilities and commitments at work. I would strongly recommend the College to anyone who is looking for a quality postgraduate education and internationally recognised credentials for professional and career development. Philip Y. M. Chen, MSc Property Investment Head of Property Development Management, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Hong Kong

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11 Distance learning suited me as over the duration of my course I ve worked in three countries, each on a separate continent; The UK, Zambia and most recently Saudi Arabia. Although the course content is challenging, along with the strain of working overseas, success on the course is still achievable and the support from CEM tutors and staff has been brilliant and a huge help all the way through. No other course offered such flexibility while still being of high academic calibre and providing CIOB accreditation. The broad scope of the BSc (Hons) Construction Management has allowed me to change job roles without losing relevance to the course. For academic content highly relevant to industry, transferable skills across a broad spectrum of the construction industry, affordability and flexibility, the BSc courses offered by CEM are second to none. Martin Brogan, BSc (Hons) Construction Management Construction Consultant, Dimensions Information Technology, Saudi Arabia

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13 I am currently serving in the RAF and wanted to gain a qualification that would help me find employment after I leave the forces. I chose to study with The College of Estate Management (CEM) as they offer undergraduate supported online learning, which has enabled me to continue with my full time role in the RAF while studying for my BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying. CEM are also registered with the Enhanced Learning Credits scheme, which has allowed me to claim financial support for my studies through the MOD. My job sees me moving around a great deal and CEM has always ensured that my examination centres have suited my needs wherever I have been located. I found the studies extremely well organised and flexible; for instance having all the study materials and assignments at the start of the year has meant that I could effectively use periods where I ve had more spare time to get ahead. The ability to request extensions of time for assignments has also been useful to me in managing a busy workload. Although I do not work in the construction industry, I found the pace and level of the studies initially enabled me to grasp the basics that I m sure many who do work in the business take for granted. The Virtual Learning Environment and particularly the assignment discussion forums also enabled those with a greater level of knowledge and experience to share this with others. My ambition is to achieve chartered status as a Quantity Surveyor. CEM s accreditation with RICS has provided me with the first step to achieving this goal. I will also hold a degree from a recognised establishment within the construction sector which will hopefully help me find an employer and help me with the next steps. Ross Willan, BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying Weapon Systems Operator (Electronic Warfare), The Royal Air Force, UK

14 After a number of years experience in the surveying industry, in 2009 I made a serious commitment to seek a career as a Chartered Surveyor and I began to look for ways to obtain RICS accredited qualifications without having to leave my job or move away from home. With these criteria in mind I looked into enrolment with The College of Estate Management (CEM) and was pleasantly surprised to find that their long distance diplomas and degrees were industry recognised and world-renowned. In a nutshell, CEM provides and facilitates a realistic and achievable route to pursuing a career in surveying and becoming a member of the RICS (MRICS). Their methods of online tuition provided me with the tools to teach myself, enhance my skills, and be confident in my own knowledge base. Although a long distance course, the online discussion forums allowed for constant close contact and discussion throughout my structured learning programme. As someone who wouldn t describe themselves as a natural academic, CEM has provided me with a fantastic service. I am very aware that, without the tuition and support supplied by CEM, these aspirations would have been very difficult to realise. The decision to enrol was life changing and has enabled me to progress my career in unfathomable directions. If I could pass on one comment to prospective students it would be - however daunting a diploma or degree may sound, dedicate the time and you can do it! Steve Simms, BSc (Hons) Estate Management Corporate & Commercial Valuations Surveyor, Santander UK Plc, UK

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16 After graduating with a City & Guilds Advanced Diploma in Construction, I wanted to continue my studies with a bachelor s degree. As I was about to become a mother, I found the option of studying with The College of Estate Management (CEM) via supported online learning very appealing. I had to organise my learning schedule to cater for my family and work and it took a lot of sacrifice - however it was all worth it. I have not missed a day in the life of my daughter and I am still at work and still have my family. Being an international student, I had to depend a lot on the Virtual Learning Environment as there are limited resources available in my country. I am grateful to the College for the vast amount of educational resources they provided, without those I would not have passed. Work colleagues saw me as an inspiration since I was amongst the first Seychellois to graduate from a supported online learning degree within the construction field. I see myself as an ambassador for CEM in my country and have recommended the College to colleagues and friends. Chantal Havelock, BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying Quantity Surveyor, Project Planning and Implementation Division, Ministry of Land Use and Housing, Seychelles

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18 I chose to study with The College of Estate Management (CEM) because of its global reputation and I made the right choice. Aside from the quality of the study materials, I was particularly impressed by the support structure CEM offered. The Virtual Learning Environment provided a hub for twoway communications, logistic support, problem-solving, discussions, questions and the sharing of experiences. The Project Management module was a particular highlight; those working towards a career in Project Management would agree that its state-of-the-art course contents will have life-long use. Pok Kam, BSc (Hons) Construction Management Project Officer, Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden ( ), Hong Kong

19 I regard The College of Estate Management (CEM) as a game changer as it provided the education I needed in helping me fulfil my ambition of a career in real estate. CEM is internationally recognised, which means I can develop my career locally and also work abroad. The flexibility of online learning meant I was able to balance study with other commitments. In 2011 I was relocated, and frequently travelled to South Africa, however this did not impact on my studies. My course also provided practical learning skills and I was able to apply newly learnt concepts and techniques at work. I would strongly recommend supported online learning with CEM to anyone considering a real estate related course. Wonder Maverudze, BSc (Hons) Estate Management Property Portfolio Manager, Zimre Property Investment Limited, Zimbabwe

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21 I chose The College of Estate Management (CEM) as an alternative to the usual campus lifestyle offered by the majority of full time degree courses. I currently work full time and needed the flexibility that CEM offers. Also, by working for a large property management company I am gaining experience at the same time as doing my degree. CEM offered the academic and professional quality that I required, and no other academic provider was able to match what they offered. I work in retail management; therefore the BSc (Hons) Estate Management was perfect for me with exposure to valuations, finance, law and construction. The course is relevant to my work but I also wanted to study the degree to develop and enhance my general understanding of the property industry. There are huge commitments to be made when taking online learning courses, but CEM has a great support structure, and the benefits of completing the course are enormous, from both a career-enhancing and financial perspective. I also love the fact I can work at my own pace and go over the lectures again if there is something I don t understand. By the end of the degree, because of my experience, I will be able to complete my APC in one year, which means I can get RICS Membership after one year of study. I would recommend CEM to all people from any walk of life. So long as you are 100% committed to your studies, with the help of CEM you will certainly learn a lot and enjoy it too. I am hopeful that once qualified there will be a position of Surveyor for me with my current company - however with my degree the world is my oyster. Sara Kelleher, BSc (Hons) Estate Management Surveying Executive, Jones Lang LaSalle

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23 I chose to study at The College of Estate Management (CEM) as it is internationally recognised as the place to gain professionally accredited construction sector qualifications. I always had access to great support from academic staff at all levels and my studies with CEM have completely changed the way I think, for the better. My time at CEM has seen a rich interweaving of knowledge between the course modules and my every day work, creating an enhanced understanding of all aspects of both environments. Covering a huge breadth of business subjects, the course has developed my analytical skills, enabling me to excel at gathering and interpreting large amounts of new information to form an overview of a situation, understand its constituent parts and to identify solutions and conclusions. My MBA has been a great and challenging journey, one that has helped me develop into a professional and provided me with a qualification from an internationally recognised and respected College. My course material was well structured with additional podcasts, webinars and videos for a range of learning styles. I would highly recommend the course to others. Kirsty Huxtable, MBA Real Estate and Construction Management Project Manager, Fordingbridge plc, UK

24 The College of Estate Management (CEM) was recommended to me by both a colleague and a friend. They both considered CEM to be the best place to study for surveying-based professional qualifications whilst working at the same time. The College has enabled me to obtain an RICS accredited academic qualification from an institution regarded by many within the sector as being the best. The tuition is excellent and is delivered by experts and practicing professionals. The flexibility of the payment terms for overseas students, coupled with the level of academic support, really suited my need for a value-for-money study route, which would also save me time compared with other learning options. After I completed the Diploma in Surveying Practice, I had no hesitation in enrolling on another RICS accredited degree with CEM and I chose the BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying. During my study and since graduating, I have applied the vast majority of what I learnt in my working environment. My qualifications have increased my job opportunities in Zambia and South Africa, and have opened the door to professional registration with the Surveyors Institute of Zambia, South African Council for the Quantity Surveying Profession and Chartered Membership of the RICS. I would strongly recommend the College to anyone considering a construction related course. CEM, the course and the experience, has changed the path of my life and I am looking to continue my studies with a postgraduate course. Kabo Musyani, BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying Senior Quantity Surveyor, Peter Richards and Partners International, Zambia

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26 The layout of the CEM Virtual Learning Environment is very inviting, and I particularly like the fact that you can tick tasks off as you go, making it easier to keep track of whether you are up-to-date. So far I have encountered numerous different course materials, and this variety allows you to break each module down into manageable chunks. Being able to speak to other people on the course through the forum reminds you that you are not alone, even though the course is based on long-distance learning. So far, I have been impressed by the support network, both internal and from other students. I must admit, I have had to adjust my lifestyle since the start of the course, and a great degree of self-discipline is required to open up textbooks after the commute home, whilst still trying to keep my horse in competition fitness. However, if making a few sacrifices is the price to pay for the opportunity to obtain a degree, I can live with that! It is still early days, but I can honestly say that I am pleased with my decision to read a degree in BSc (Hons) Estate Management with The College of Estate Management and look forward to furthering my knowledge and potential for career progression over the next four years. Eleanor Newton, BSc (Hons) Estate Management Senior Surveyor, Workman LLP, UK

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29 I initially wanted to study with The College of Estate Management (CEM) as their degree is accredited with the CIOB. This accreditation guarantees that they are a reputable academic institution and trusted within the construction industry. CEM offered me the chance of studying for an accredited degree whilst continuing to earn a living. They also offer exciting networking events with industry professionals providing CPD. After studying my BSc (Hons) Construction Management, I was so impressed with the College that I enrolled on the MBA Programme and will graduate from this in The degree programmes are designed for working people and I found that part-time study became a way of life! The VLE provides information at your fingertips, whether at a desk, on a train, using your laptop, your tablet or your smartphone. Being able to learn something new and then immediately implement it in the work place was great. The degrees don t just teach you, they allow you to practice at the same time - solidify learning for the future. My education with the College helped me to take on and achieve what at first seemed an incredibly difficult challenge - to balance work and study. The quality of the study materials, the tutoring and the student support services all really helped me to improve my personal effectiveness and succeed in my studies. Rapid career promotion was the result of my studies and I would recommend CEM s degrees to anyone working in the construction sector. Jesse Meek, BSc (Hons) Construction Management Head of Operations, Sovereign Housing, UK

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31 The College of Estate Management (CEM) offered a way of gaining an RICS/CIOB accredited degree via supported online learning, in my own time and around full time work commitments. This method of learning was perfect for me and the fees were also very reasonable, which was important as the course was self-funded. The tutors and support staff were always very helpful and informative, and always at the end of an or phone call to help. The Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) is also a great tool for communicating with other students and tutors when studying for assignments and revising for exams. I used the VLE more than I thought I would, to discuss ideas and theories with other students, to obtain clarification from tutors on assignment queries, and also to generally communicate with other people who were in the same boat as me. I found the VLE to be very useful and would definitely recommend it to all future students. Due to the flexibility and structure of courses, I would definitely consider an additional course and recommend CEM to others considering undertaking a professional, construction related degree, who may be restricted by full time work constraints and personal commitments. Gaining the BSc (Hons) Building Surveying is by far the most valuable qualification I have achieved to date and has since helped me to secure a more senior role, become involved in larger construction projects and also enrol onto the RICS APC to fulfil my ultimate achievement in becoming a Chartered Surveyor. I thank CEM for the help and support in achieving this goal. Pete Ewbank, BSc (Hons) Building Surveying Senior Building Surveyor, Fairhurst Estates Ltd, UK

32 Throughout my course I have been incredibly impressed with the constant support and guidance provided by the course administrators, and knowledgeable and empathetic tutors. My course encouraged me to be self-disciplined and even though it was challenging at times, I was determined to complete it. The College of Estate Management is recognised internationally and I am confident of a bright and promising future ahead. Lynette Kashorda BSc (Hons) Estate Management

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34 I chose The College of Estate Management (CEM) as an alternative to the usual campus lifestyle offered by the majority of degree courses. I wanted to work, earn money and, most importantly, gain experience at the same time as doing my degree. CEM offered the academic and professional quality that I required, and no other academic provider was able to match their offering. Choosing to study with CEM was probably the best decision of my life. I m now years ahead of my friends who all went down the traditional university routes, both financially and experience-wise. I would say that online learning is suitable for people who have a hard-working mentality and who can organise themselves sufficiently; skill sets that are extremely useful in professional life. I knew that the key areas I was interested in were investment and development, with a level of exposure to valuations, finance, law and construction. At the time I was working in a mixture of property development and investment. The course was relevant to my work but I also wanted to study the degree to develop and enhance my general understanding of the property industry. I knew that if ever I did struggle with something specific then I had the relevant addresses and contact numbers for all of my tutors. I did receive some financial support from my employer and they gave me study time in work hours. Although they didn t actively help me with my studies there was always someone around at work who could give me another perspective if I had a specific question. The online learning degree at CEM has allowed me to develop my career and to get a good education at the same time. There are huge commitments to be made when taking online learning courses, but CEM has a great support structure, and the benefits of completing the course are enormous, from both a career-enhancing and financial perspective. I can t emphasise enough how much I recommend CEM to all people from any walk of life. I m only young but unlike many other people my age that have a degree I have no university debts. Michael Sacks, BSc (Hons) Estate Management Director, Sequre Property Investment, UK

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36 Patron: HRH The Prince of Wales Choosing to study with CEM was probably the best decision of my life. Michael Sacks, BSc (Hons) Estate Management Director, Sequre Property Investment, London, UK The College of Estate Management, Whiteknights, Reading, Berkshire, RG6 6AW, UK Freephone UK: International: +44 (0) Programmes accredited by: