BSc Hons Property Investment, Appraisal and Development F/T 6793

PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION PROGRAMME TITLE: BSc Hons Property Investment, Appraisal and Development F/T 6793 BSc Hons Property Investment, Appraisal and Development with Diploma in Professional Practice F/T 6793 BSc Hons Property Investment, Appraisal and Development P/T 6853 PLEASE NOTE. This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if he or she takes full advantage of the learning opportunities provided. More detailed information on the specific learning outcomes, content and the teaching, learning and assessment methods of each module can be found at http://www.adbe.ulster.ac.uk/ and in the programme and module handbook). 1. AWARDING INSTITUTION/BODY: UNIVERSITY OF ULSTER 2. TEACHING INSTITUTION: UNIVERSITY OF ULSTER 3. LOCATION: Jordanstown Campus 4. ACCREDITED BY: Seeking accreditation from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors 5. FINAL AWARD: BSc Hons Property Investment, Appraisal and Development BSc Hons Property Investment Appraisal and Development + Diploma in Professional Practice 6. MODE OF ATTENDANCE: Full-time/ Part-time 7. SPECIALISMS: None 8. COURSE CODES: FT: 6793; PT: 6853 9. DATE WRITTEN: Effective from 2012/13 10. EDUCATIONAL AIMS OF THE COURSE The programme aims to facilitate the personal and intellectual development of students and to produce graduates with the knowledge and skills appropriate to the management and control of the diverse components within the property investment and development disciplines. Within this overall aim, the programme strives to enable students to: demonstrate a systematic understanding of the theoretical knowledge, personal attributes and competencies that will be required of them in order to develop a career in the real estate industry. develop the critical, creative, intellectual and analytical abilities of students, thereby facilitating skills in problem solving and data handling as applied in relevant aspects B1

of property appraisal, planning, regeneration, development, finance, valuation, maintenance, investment, management, marketing, geographical information systems and sustainable development. cultivate and encourage the development of personal responsibility through selfmotivated academic enquiry, independent learning skills and the utilisation and application of new technologies to meet the changing demands of professional practice both locally and further afield. understand the principles of economic, financial, planning, legal, valuation and technological influences which relate to the real estate industry. demonstrate a systematic understanding of the planning, economic, social, environmental, legal, valuation and information technological influences relating to the property industry; develop a suitable base for further progression into post-graduate research and development, thus enabling them to compete at the highest levels of management with other professionals in the property development, construction and investment industries.. demonstrate an ability to initiate and sustain in-depth research and present findings in a variety of media. develop the relevant vocational education in core areas of valuation, appraisal, investment and management by utilising appropriate methodologies and techniques that can be applied in the public, private and voluntary sectors. cultivate the ability to work in an individual capacity and as part of a small group or team to initiate and carry out projects which integrate the property disciplines. develop transferable skills for employability to progress their professional career based on the experience gained from PDP and placements. access opportunities for life-long learning through further study at post-graduate level and continuing professional development. In addition for students on the Diploma in Professional Practice programme: enhance their understanding of the workplace environment and develop personal and professional skills. 11 MAIN LEARNING OUTCOMES The following Learning Outcomes are based on The framework for higher education qualifications in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, 2008 ; QAA benchmarks for Construction, Property and Surveying 2008. The programme provides opportunities for students to achieve and demonstrate the following learning. 11K KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF SUBJECT Successful students will be able to: K1 Critically evaluate the key concepts, theories and principles used in real estate including, valuation, financial appraisal, building performance, planning and property B2

law, valuation technologies applied within industry, statutory and legislative principles, economic theory and applied economics and market analysis; some of which is at the forefront of knowledge. K2 Recognise the relationships between the professions and industries allied to real estate, their operation and the linkages between them; K3 Identify the steps required to apply the principles and methods of scientific inquiry and research design to plan and undertake a research dissertation; K4 Demonstrate specialist and comprehensive technical knowledge in valuation, finance, appraisal, construction, law, financial management and business management, humanbuilding interaction, mapping, and resource management; K5 Understand and exercise significant judgement on professional ethics, their impact on the operation of the professions and their influence on the society, communities and the stakeholders with whom they have contact; K6 Demonstrate specialist knowledge of generic and specialist software relevant to spatial planning, financial appraisal of property development and investment opportunities, and the application of geographical information systems within urban regeneration, property development and mass appraisal; Teaching and Learning Methods: Subject related qualities are developed primarily through lectures, a variety of coursework assignments, seminars, directed reading, IT based resources including WebCT, case studies and project work. In addition, visiting speakers and practitioners will be used, reflecting the applied nature of learning required. Assessment Methods: Assessment of the above is principally through closed book examinations, class tests and coursework assignments consisting of essays, individual and group exercises, oral presentations, and a major individual dissertation. 11I INTELLECTUAL QUALITIES Successful students should be able to: I1 Analyse and critically evaluate relevant data and evidence within the field of real estate studies; I2 Undertake, research and critically evaluate current research and advanced scholarship, theories, paradigms and concepts; I3 Develop sound and reasoned arguments and challenge assumptions within the context B3

of a valuation and legislative framework and where appropriate proffer new hypotheses. I4 Reflect and critically review subject specific material including current research and draw appropriate, rational conclusions. Teaching and Learning Methods: Intellectual qualities are primarily developed through coursework assignments and projects, as well as problem based learning through real life scenarios. Assessment Methods: The above are assessed through formal examinations, class tests, debates and coursework assignments consisting of a range of problem simulations, oral presentations and dissertation. 11P PROFESSIONAL/PRACTICAL SKILLS Successful students should be able to: P1 Demonstrate the ability to think independently and solve problems within the area of real estate investment and development; P2 Apply a professional approach to the development of the industry sector; P3 Recognise and respond to moral and ethical issues which are pertinent to real estate including relevant legislation and professional codes of conduct; P4 Communicate effectively and present information accurately and coherently through a variety of means; P5 Research for related literature and information; P6 Apply statistical concepts and techniques at an appropriate level, such that they can interpret, analyse and manipulate data; P7 Develop and critique safe working practices, foster an awareness of the needs, roles, rights and responsibilities of others. Teaching and Learning Methods: Professional and practical skills are gained through coursework assignments including, problem solving assignments and discussion groups and a substantial final year research dissertation. The placement year and other work based learning opportunities also contribute to the development of professional and practical skills. B4

Assessment Methods: The supervised work experience is assessed with visits and reports. Coursework assignments, site visits, student peer assessment and dissertation also contribute to the assessment process. Some aspects are also assessed by formal examinations. 11T TRANSFERABLE SKILLS Successful students should be able to: T1 Communicate effectively and present findings accurately using a variety of means to specialist and non-specialist audiences; T2 Apply information technology to access and analyse information from a wide variety of sources; T3 Identify, extract and analyse data from multiple sources, including drawn information; T4 Evaluate the Chartered Surveyor s role in society; T5 Develop independent learning skills for continuing development; T6 Synthesise legal and other documents; T7 Manage time and resources effectively; T8 Exercise initiative and personal responsibility for determining and achieving personal and/or group outcomes. Teaching and Learning Methods: Basic IT and communication skills are now more widespread in society in general and in the student body on arrival in particular. In recognition of this we seek to enhance these skills in Year 1, whilst recognising some students will require additional help and direction to the self tutoring courses now readily available. These and the other skills listed above are developed through coursework assignments including the preparation of reports, problem solving assignments undertaken individually or in small groups and a substantial final year dissertation. Assessment Methods: Assessment is primarily through course assignments, oral presentations, practical exercises, projects and through the dissertation. B5

11b MAIN LEARNING OUTCOMES Exit Award Associate Bachelor s Degree The following Learning Outcomes are based on The framework for higher education qualifications in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, 2008 ; QAA benchmarks for Construction, Property and Surveying 2008. The programme provides opportunities for students to achieve and demonstrate the following learning. 11K KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF SUBJECT Successful students will be able to: K1 Identify the key concepts, theories and principles used in real estate including, valuation, financial appraisal, building performance, planning and property law, valuation technologies applied within industry, statutory and legislative principles, economic theory and applied economics and market analysis; some of which is at the forefront of knowledge. K2 Recognise the relationships between the professions and industries allied to real estate, their operation and the linkages between them; K3 Demonstrate proficient technical knowledge in valuation, finance, appraisal, construction, law, financial management and business management, human-building interaction, mapping, and resource management; K4 Understand and exercise judgement on professional ethics, their impact on the operation of the professions and their influence on the society, communities and the stakeholders with whom they have contact; K5 Demonstrate knowledge of generic and specialist software relevant to spatial planning, financial appraisal of property development and investment opportunities, and the application of geographical information systems within urban regeneration, property development and mass appraisal; Teaching and Learning Methods: Subject related qualities are developed primarily through lectures, a variety of coursework assignments, seminars, directed reading, IT based resources including WebCT, case studies and project work. In addition, visiting speakers and practitioners will be used, reflecting the applied nature of learning required. Assessment Methods: Assessment of the above is principally through closed book examinations, class tests and coursework assignments consisting of essays, individual and group exercises and oral presentations. B6

11I INTELLECTUAL QUALITIES Successful students should be able to: I1 Analyse relevant data and evidence within the field of real estate studies; I2 Undertake, research and evaluate current research and scholarship, theories, paradigms and concepts; I3 Develop reasoned arguments and challenge assumptions within the context of a valuation and legislative framework and where appropriate proffer new hypotheses. I4 Reflect and review subject specific material including current research and draw appropriate conclusions. Teaching and Learning Methods: Intellectual qualities are primarily developed through coursework assignments and projects, as well as problem based learning through real life scenarios. Assessment Methods: The above are assessed through formal examinations, class tests, debates and coursework assignments consisting of a range of problem simulations and oral presentations. 11P PROFESSIONAL/PRACTICAL SKILLS Successful students should be able to: P1 Demonstrate the ability to think independently and solve problems within the area of real estate investment and development; P2 Apply a professional approach to the development of the industry sector; P3 Recognise and respond to moral and ethical issues which are pertinent to real estate including relevant legislation and professional codes of conduct; P4 Communicate effectively and present information accurately and coherently through a variety of means; P5 Research for related literature and information; P6 Apply statistical concepts and techniques at an appropriate level, such that they can interpret, analyse and manipulate data; B7

Teaching and Learning Methods: Professional and practical skills are gained through coursework assignments including, problem solving assignments and discussion groups and a substantial final year research dissertation. Assessment Methods: Coursework assignments, site visits and student peer assessment also contribute to the assessment process. Some aspects are also assessed by formal examinations. 11T TRANSFERABLE SKILLS Successful students should be able to: T1 Communicate and present findings accurately using a variety of means to specialist and non-specialist audiences; T2 Apply information technology to access and analyse information from a wide variety of sources; T3 Identify, extract and analyse data from multiple sources, including drawn information; T4 Discuss the Chartered Surveyor s role in society; T5 Develop independent learning skills for continuing development; T6 Comprehend legal and other documents; T7 Manage time and resources effectively; T8 Exercise initiative and personal responsibility for determining and achieving personal and/or group outcomes. Teaching and Learning Methods: Basic IT and communication skills are now more widespread in society in general and in the student body on arrival in particular. In recognition of this we seek to enhance these skills in Year 1, whilst recognising some students will require additional help and direction to the self tutoring courses now readily available. These and the other skills listed above are developed through coursework assignments including the preparation of reports and problem solving assignments undertaken individually or in small groups. Assessment Methods: Assessment is primarily through course assignments, oral presentations, practical exercises and projects. B8

11 PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOME MAP Please Note: The matrix displays only the main measurable programme outcomes, and where these are developed and assessed within the modules offered in the programme. There may be other outcomes detailed in the module descriptions (eg attitudes and behaviours), which are not assessed. MODULE CODE TITLES K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 I1 I2 I3 I4 P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7 T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 SUR105 Economics SUR118 Communicating Sustainability SUR117 An Introduction to Property Data Application SUR106 Development Process SUR104 Law SUR131 Construction Technology A SUR107 Financial Mathematics and Valuation SUR310 Planning and Property Law SUR307 Building Performance SUR311 Valuation of Urban Property SUR306 Real Estate Finance and Appraisal SUR329 Creating Real Estate Value SUR328 Property Economics and Market Modelling SUR317 DPP Placement SUR528 Urban Regeneration and Finance SUR503 Investment Valuation and Portfolio Management SUR504 Statutory Valuations SUR507 Applied Property Data Analysis SUR501 Property Asset Management SUR524 Dissertation SUR512 * Research Methods and Dissertation SUR513 * Dissertation Notes: * Applies to Part time only B9

11b PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOME MAP [Exit Award] Please Note: The matrix displays only the main measurable programme outcomes, and where these are developed and assessed within the modules offered in the programme. There may be other outcomes detailed in the module descriptions (eg attitudes and behaviours), which are not assessed. MODULE CODE TITLES K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 I1 I2 I3 I4 P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 SUR105 Economics SUR118 Communicating Sustainability SUR117 An Introduction to Property Data Application SUR106 Development Process SUR104 Law SUR131 Construction Technology A SUR107 Financial Mathematics and Valuation SUR310 Planning and Property Law SUR307 Building Performance SUR311 Valuation of Urban Property SUR306 Real Estate Finance and Appraisal SUR329 Creating Real Estate Value SUR328 Property Economics and Market Modelling B10

12 PROGRAMME STRUCTURE AND REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD The BSc Hons Property Investment, Appraisal and Development degree is a 3 year full time programme without placement, culminating in 360 credit points or a 4 year with placement, culminating in 420 credit points. The placement year is optional and is spent in supervised industrial placement comprising of a module of 60 credit points. Years 1, 2 and 3 each are comprised of modules totalling 120 credit points studied over two semesters. The part time programme is studied over a 6 years period. Most modules are 20 credit points and these notionally involve 200 hours of student effort, of which the class contact hours varies according to the respective module (lectures, tutorials, computer laboratory etc) with the remainder made up from a variety of assignment work, directed study, student s private study and revision. A number of 10 point modules (100 hours of student effort) are also employed. This arrangement permits a wider range of material to be studied without combining disparate areas for assessment purposes. Most modules are delivered over either semester 1 or semester 2. Only one module in the final year full time programme (Dissertation) is delivered across both semesters where this was felt to be more appropriate than splitting the assessment submission into two separate semesters. This enables students to have a longer investigative period to develop their research skills and undertake their data collection and analysis. Progression, transfer and award criteria are outlined in section 16. Details of the modules, and their corresponding credit level, for the programme are listed below. Module code Module Title Credit level Credit Points Module Status Level 4 [Sandwich and full-time modes] SUR105 Economics 4 20 C SUR118 Communicating Sustainability 4 10 C SUR117 An Introduction to Property Data Application 4 10 C SUR131 Construction Technology A 4 20 C SUR106 SUR107 Development Process Financial Mathematics & Valuation 4 4 20 20 C C SUR104 Law 4 20 C Level 5 [Sandwich and full-time modes] SUR310 Planning & Property Law 5 20 C SUR307 Building Performance 5 20 C SUR311 Valuation of Urban Property 5 20 C B11

SUR306 Real Estate Finance & Appraisal 5 20 C SUR328 Property Economics & Market Modelling 5 20 C SUR329 Creating Real Estate Value Award: (exit) Associate Bachelors Degree 5 20 C Placement [Optional Sandwich mode only] SUR317 Diploma in Professional Practice (DPP) Award: DPP on Award of Degree 5 60 O Level 6 [Sandwich and full-time modes] SUR503 Investment Valuations & Portfolio 6 20 C Management SUR528 Urban Regeneration & Finance 6 20 C SUR501 Property Asset Management 6 20 C SUR504 Statutory Valuations 6 10 C SUR507 Applied Property Data Analysis 6 10 C SUR524 Dissertation 6 40 C SUR512 Research Method and Dissertation * 6 20 C SUR513 Dissertation * 6 20 C * Applies to Part time only C Compulsory module O Optional module 13 SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS AND THEIR LEARNING Students and their learning are supported in a number of ways: Induction process: Provision of a comprehensive induction programme for all entrants where they will be introduced to Student Handbooks, module study guide booklets and other key information. Library induction programme relevant to the subject will also be organised. Course/Subject Director: Convenient access to the Course Director and module co-ordinators through informal communications, via e-mail and planned meetings. Advisers of Studies: The use of personal studies advisors. Personal Development Planning: Access to the Personal Development System tool to manage Personal Development Planning. Careers Development Centre: Provides help with placement opportunities, career planning and post graduation career support. Information Services Department: Training in use of IT facilities through the Information Services Department. Student Support Department: Access to the Student Support Department, providing services related to counselling and guidance, health, careers advice, accommodation, childcare, finance and special needs as well as University protocols for students with special needs. B12

Sport and Recreation Department: Access to a range of activities through the Sport and Recreation Department. International Office: Where required access to the services of the International Office Students Union: Access to the Student s Union Chaplaincy: easy access to the Chaplaincy facilities. Health Services: Access to the University clinic. Guidance on health and safety matters University Web Portal providing general information on the university, the programme and its modules and study skills packages. Access to ViBEL (Virtual Built Environment Library) and the online learning environment: WebCT. Preparation for placement and help in finding placement opportunities Academic staff visit students on placement The Careers Service, in conjunction with programme teams, provides careers advice and the preparation for Industrial Placement. Student membership and participation in Professional bodies is encouraged and is facilitated during the Induction programme, with a visit to the National HQ of the RICS and Titanic Quarter. A number of the core teaching staff are members the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. 14 CRITERIA FOR ADMISSION TO THE COURSE Applicants must satisfy the University s general entry requirements (NB: initial offer standard may vary from year to year see University Prospectus for details) or in exceptional circumstances, where an individual has substantial and significant experiential learning (APEL), a portfolio of written evidence demonstrating the meeting of the learning outcomes of the entry requirements (including subject specific outcomes, specified by Course Committee) may be considered as an alternative entrance route. Evidence used to demonstrate entrance requirements may not be used for exemption against modules within the programme. 15 EVALUATING AND IMPROVING THE QUALITY AND STANDARD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING The following mechanisms are used for evaluating and improving teaching and learning quality: The University s vision and core strategic aims, teaching and learning strategy and policies; External benchmark standards: continuous evaluation and improvement to ensure that the standards set by QAA in the Framework for Higher Education 2008 specifically the Benchmark Statement for Construction, Property and Surveying, at level 6 is met. Views of students as expressed through staff/student consultation: Students are given the opportunity to be represented on the Course Committee and at Faculty B13

Board. Student/staff consultative meetings provide the means of highlighting any difficulties, relating to the course, experienced by the cohort. The University student survey on the quality of teaching and other questionnaires: Formal student feedback is sought on the content and delivery of each module via an online module evaluation questionnaire. Views of graduates in the National Student Survey Views of employers: Feedback from employers through the Professional Training and Liaison Committee (PTLC) and also through employers engagement forum. Views of external examiners and Annual Subject Monitoring: These involve the consideration of the annual course review report and reports from the External Examiner. They provide for a detailed and focussed consideration of the quality of delivery of the course. Student performance data and career progression University approval and re-validation by a panel including internal academics and external members takes place every 5 years Upon completion the module team reviews each module. Statistical information, student feedback, content, delivery, assessment methods, resources and proposed enhancements are considered. The course committee considers module evaluations and other student feedback, with matters of concern highlighted for action, as part of the annual course review report. The School Courses Directorate meets regularly to review matters relating to the management, delivery and quality of all taught courses in the School. Staff teaching performance is monitored annually through student questionnaires and peer observation. Staff appraisal is carried out on a 2 year cycle with attention given to the development needs of the individual staff member. Most teaching staff have completed, or are currently enrolled on the PG Certificate in Higher Education Practice (PGCHEP), or its equivalent forerunner qualifications. At Faculty levels there are active Teaching and Learning Committees responsible for co-ordinating developments and initiatives relating to innovative methods for delivery, technology mediated learning, as well as general resource issues. In addition, these committees are responsible for regulating Faculty codes of practice relating to course management and delivery. The University has an active Staff Development Unit which supports and funds B14

specific research/projects into improvement of delivery and overall student experience. The student experience is enhanced by the ongoing research and consultancy conducted by teaching staff. The student experience is enhanced through teaching staff involvement in the management and development of their respective professional bodies. WebCT is used to supplement in-class learning activities. The Library and Resource Centre (LRC) in association with the School of the Built Environment has developed a Virtual Built Environment Library (ViBEL) to provide a subject focussed interface to the extensive electronic learning resources available to enrolled students. In addition, there are University/Faculty/School strategies for teaching and learning. For example, the Faculty Teaching and Learning Committee coordinates developments and initiatives relating to innovative methods for delivery and learning, as well as resource issues. The Faculty Teaching and Learning Committee regulates Faculty codes of practice for programme management. B15

16 REGULATION OF STANDARDS Assessment rules General course regulations are in accordance with the current University of Ulster Charter, Statutes, Ordinances and Regulations, are described in full in Section B3. In modules that are assessed by either coursework or written examination, the pass mark is 40%. In modules that are assessed by a combination of coursework and written examination, the pass mark for each assessment element is 40%. The pass mark for the award of the Diploma in Professional Practice placement year is 50%; a mark of 40% is sufficient for progression to the next stage of the course Classification of Final Results Only level 6 modules contribute to the Honours classification. Each module is weighted in proportion to its credit point rating. The following percentages are used as a basis for determining a candidate s overall classification: Class I At least 70% Class II (division i) (IIi) At least 60% and less than 70% Class II (division ii) (IIii) At least 50% and less than 60% Class III At least 40% and less than 50% Award of Diploma in Professional Practice The following are the minimum percentages used in determining the overall gradings of candidates. DPP Pass with Commendation At least 70% Pass At least 50% and less than 70% B16

External Examiners External Examiners (one from industry and one from academia) are approved by the Faculty Board and appointed for the course. Their key functions are to contribute to the assurance of the standards of the award and the fair treatment of students. They are involved in the moderation and approval of assessments and the moderation of the marking undertaken by internal examiners. This role is to moderate the assessment process, ensure appropriate standards of final awards and ensure that accuracy and consistency of assessment has been applied. Detailed duties are as specified in the current University of Ulster Code of Practice for External Examiners (consistent with QAA standards). 17 INDICATORS OF QUALITY RELATING TO TEACHING AND LEARNING Teaching staff within the Faculty are encouraged to become accredited members of the Higher Education Academy (HEA). To date a number of staff have fulfilled the requirements through completion of the Postgraduate Certificate in University Teaching (PGCHEP). As well as teaching, most staff are actively engaged in research that informs their teaching. In addition, most have substantial industrial experience prior to joining the University. A significant number are full members of appropriate professional bodies (e.g. RICS, RTPI). In the last HEFCE/Quality Assurance Agency assessment a score of 21 out of 24 was awarded. In the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise staff teaching on the Programme contributed to Unit 30 Built Environment gaining a score of 5. The RAE 2008, the Built Environment Research Institute obtained the following profile with 15% of activities classified as four star (world leading research), 50% rated at three star (internationally excellent), 30% two star (international quality) and 5% at one star (research of national quality). Collectively 95% of activities were considered to be of international standing in terms of rigour, significance and innovation The course is under review for accreditation by the RICS. The programme is examined by the Annual Subject Monitoring process and also periodic Subject Validation. A number of senior staff are external examiners at UK and international property and surveying related courses. Several members of the teaching team participate on editorial boards for leading peer reviewed journals in property, valuation, investment and urban regeneration. B17