Construction Management - Higher National Diploma (Top-up from Higher National Certificate)
Telephone: 01792 284098 Email: he@gcs.ac.uk
Overview
Awarding body: Pearson
Already hold an HNC or CertHE in Construction Management and ready to complete the full Diploma?
This part-time (one day a week) top-up takes you from Level 4 to a full Pearson Higher National Diploma. It is also available as an apprenticeship.
Construction Managers coordinate and direct site activities, bringing together architects, engineers, commercial managers and site specialists to turn a construction concept into reality. The role requires both project management and people skills, the ability to manage risk and to creatively problem-solve on the go.
At Level 5 you move from applying construction management principles into leading them. You'll manage projects and programmes: planning, resourcing and controlling more complex schemes; work through contractual and procurement procedures and commercial control; and tackle sustainable construction and the wider constraints that shape real projects. You'll bring this together in a group project where you will be investigating a real problem, developing and evaluating your own solution.
Completing the top-up gives you the full HND, equivalent to the first two years of a BEng Construction Management degree. It opens a range of site- and office-based construction roles and builds the planning, commercial and people skills that underpin site management. You can also top up to the final year of a BEng, with the option to progress to MEng.
You'll be taught in small, interactive groups by industry experts who build your learning around real-world case studies. We work with you as an individual to provide the skills support you need, whether that's maths confidence, presentation skills, formal writing, or making the step up to the independent, self-directed work of Level 5. The Construction Management programme content is informed by our Built Environment Industrial Panel, with representatives from Andrew Scott, Tai Tarian and other local and national employers, so you know you're learning contemporary methods valued by employers.
Which Built Environment Higher National Diploma (HND) is right for me?
There are two pathways for our Higher National Diploma (HND) Top-up options for Built Environment. Choose the one that works for you:
- Construction Management - Higher National Diploma (Top-up from Higher National Certificate) – If you want to run projects, this gives you skills in planning, procurement and how to bring different teams together on construction projects. You’ll know how to deliver a project on time, on budget and how to manage risk.
- Civil Engineering - Higher National Diploma (Top-up from Higher National Certificate) – If you enjoy applying maths and science to real problems, this builds the technical knowledge to work on roads, bridges, drainage and buildings. You’ll understand how structures behave and be able to apply design principles and digital tools to create Civil Engineering projects.
This course is available both as a part-time option and as an apprenticeship.
Key information
We recognise formal qualifications and/or relevant work experience as entry routes into the HND Construction Management.
Typical entry requirements include a HNC in Construction Management or in a relevant field such as Construction, Engineering, or Business.
Alternatively, we welcome your application if you have relevant work experience in the construction industry and can evidence proficiency in written and spoken English and good numeracy skills.
Please provide copies of your academic certificates or evidence of work experience when applying. Our Admissions team will carefully review each application to ensure suitability for the course.
This course is delivered through a combination of lectures, practical workshops, and group projects. You will engage in interactive discussions, case studies, and site visits to gain real-world exposure to Construction Management. Our experienced tutors will guide you through the course content, providing comprehensive support and feedback.
Modules (Level 5):
- Group Project
- Project Management
- Personal Professional Development
- Advanced Construction Drawing and Detailing
- Construction Technology for Complex Building Projects
- Sustainable Methods of Construction
- Value Engineering and Cost Control
- Advanced Materials.
Assessment:
Assessment methods include coursework assignments, practical exercises, and presentations. Grading criteria are clearly outlined in the course handbook, enabling you to understand the expectations and criteria for each assessment.
Completing the Higher National Diploma Construction Management (Top-up) course opens up a range of progression opportunities for your career.
Many entry-level and trainee roles across construction accept the HNC as their minimum qualification.
This HND qualification enables you to access roles such as:
- Senior Site Supervisor (salary range £28,000 to £35,000)
- Project Manager (salary range £28,000 to £35,000).
You can choose to pursue a higher-level qualification such as a degree in Construction Management or a related field.
As you gain experience and expertise or with further learning, you can progress to positions like Construction Manager, Project Manager, or Contracts Manager (salary range £40,000-£60,000).
Course costs:
£2,340* a year, but it is also available via an apprenticeship route.
For information on financial support - including tuition fee loans - please visit www.studentfinancewales.co.uk.
Course duration:
This course is delivered over two academic years at our Tycoch campus.
The course will start in September. Classes will take place 9am-5pm on Tuesdays.
Additional fees:
- Travel to and from college, or placement
- Photocopying, stationery and equipment costs (e.g. USB sticks)
- Purchase of Site Safety Boots
- Printing and binding
- Gowns for graduation ceremonies.
*Please note that the tuition fees stated are subject to increase for future years of study.