Building Surveying

Building Surveying covers the science and management of buildings throughout their entire life cycle, from design and construction through to maintenance, refurbishment and demolition. You study building technology, structural behaviour, construction materials, and defect diagnosis — often called building pathology. A significant part of the course focuses on practical skills such as conducting condition surveys, preparing Building Energy Rating (BER) assessments, and checking compliance with Building Regulations Parts B (fire safety) and M (access and use). Placements with surveying practices, local authorities, or property companies give you hands-on site experience. A typical week combines lectures, technical drawing or CAD workshops, site visits, and report writing, preparing you for professional practice.

Entry is normally through the CAO with a Leaving Certificate that includes English or Irish and Mathematics, typically at Ordinary level minimum, though Higher-level Maths is advantageous and may be required by some institutions. Useful Leaving Cert subjects include Construction Studies, Physics, Technical Graphics, and Business. CAO points for this programme are generally moderate, though demand can vary by institution. Applicants holding a QQI Level 5 or Level 6 award in Construction Technology, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline may apply through the further education and training (FET) progression route, often with reduced CAO points. Mature applicants aged 23 or over may apply directly and are assessed on relevant work experience, and both HEAR and DARE schemes are available for eligible students.

Demand for qualified building surveyors in Ireland remains strong, driven by sustained construction activity, a large national housing programme, and significant investment in retrofit and heritage refurbishment. Graduates who achieve chartered status through the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI) are particularly well placed in the jobs market. Starting salaries typically range from approximately €32,000 to €40,000 per year, with experienced chartered building surveyors earning €55,000 to €75,000 or more. The profession is well regarded and offers clear progression routes into senior and specialist roles.