Discover the best UK universities for Quantity Surveying in 2026. Find courses that combine practical skills with strong industry links.
Best Universities for Quantity Surveying: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Reading | 88 | 79 |
| 2 Silver | University of Salford | 85 | 81 |
| 3 Bronze | Heriot-Watt University | 87 | 77 |
| 4 | Coventry University | 83 | 74 |
| 5 | University of Wolverhampton | 81 | 72 |
| 6 | University of Portsmouth | 82 | 70 |
| 7 | Liverpool John Moores University | 80 | 73 |
| 8 | University of Central Lancashire | 79 | 69 |
| 9 | University of Lincoln | 78 | 68 |
| 10 | University of Derby | 77 | 67 |
1. University of Reading Gold
2. University of Salford Silver
3. Heriot-Watt University Bronze
4. Coventry University
5. University of Wolverhampton
6. University of Portsmouth
7. Liverpool John Moores University
8. University of Central Lancashire
9. University of Lincoln
10. University of Derby
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Quantity Surveying rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to reflect what really matters to students.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, cost of a pint and Uber, crime rate, student satisfaction
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher’s student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked Quantity Surveying Universities in the UK
Quantity Surveying is a key discipline within construction and project management, focusing on cost planning, sustainability, and the delivery of large-scale infrastructure. Our 2025 ranking highlights the best universities for Quantity Surveying in the UK, based on teaching quality, industry links, graduate outcomes, and student satisfaction. Whether you want to work in commercial management, cost consultancy, or construction development, these universities offer excellent preparation for a rewarding career.
University of Salford
Salford is highly regarded for its industry connections and hands-on learning opportunities. Located in Greater Manchester, it offers strong partnerships with construction firms and chartered surveyor bodies, providing students with real-world experience and excellent employability prospects.
University of Reading
Reading offers a world-recognised Quantity Surveying and Construction Management programme that blends economics, cost planning, and project management. The university has outstanding graduate employability, with many students going on to work for major construction and consultancy firms.
University of the West of England (UWE Bristol)
UWE Bristol delivers practical, professionally accredited Quantity Surveying courses with a focus on project delivery and sustainability. Its supportive teaching staff and modern facilities help students build confidence in both technical and leadership skills.
University of Greenwich
Greenwich provides a balanced curriculum combining technical knowledge, business understanding, and practical placement opportunities. The university’s strong links to local construction companies and professional networks help graduates transition smoothly into employment.
London South Bank University (LSBU)
LSBU has a strong reputation for professional accreditation and student satisfaction. Its Quantity Surveying degrees are accredited by the RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors), and students gain hands-on experience through work placements and live projects with employers in London and beyond.
Career Prospects After a Quantity Surveying Degree
Graduates often go on to work as quantity surveyors, cost consultants, project managers, or contract administrators. Many join major construction firms, local authorities, or consultancy practices. Related degrees include Civil Engineering and Construction Management.
Entry Requirements for Quantity Surveying Degrees
Typical entry requirements range from 112 to 144 UCAS points, with strong maths, physics, or business skills recommended. Some universities also value previous experience in construction or engineering. Many courses are accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
Most Affordable Cities to Study Quantity Surveying in the UK
Manchester, Bristol, and Salford offer affordable living costs and excellent access to construction industry networks. These cities also provide strong student support and social opportunities.
Best Universities for Nightlife and Student Life
Manchester and Bristol stand out for their lively nightlife, student communities, and networking opportunities — ideal for students balancing study with social and professional development.
Student Wellbeing and Support
Universities such as UWE Bristol and Salford are known for their commitment to student wellbeing, offering counselling, mentorship, and academic support services to help students manage demanding technical courses effectively.
Considering Alternatives to Quantity Surveying?
If you’re exploring similar degrees, consider Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or Architecture — all of which offer strong links to the built environment and infrastructure sectors.
Summary: Which Quantity Surveying University Is Right for You?
When choosing where to study Quantity Surveying, look for industry partnerships, RICS accreditation, placement opportunities, and city affordability. Salford leads for industry links, Reading for academic excellence, and UWE Bristol for practical training. Greenwich and LSBU provide great London-based options for students wanting strong professional networks and accredited qualifications.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Quantity Surveying
Top UK universities for Quantity Surveying include University of Reading, Glasgow Caledonian University, and University of Salford, known for strong industry links and student satisfaction.
The University of Reading is often ranked highest for Quantity Surveying, praised for its practical focus and strong graduate employability.
A Quantity Surveying degree opens doors to careers in construction cost management, project planning, and contract administration, with good salary prospects.
Maths and Business Studies are commonly required or recommended, but entry requirements vary. Check individual university course pages for details.
Graduates can become quantity surveyors, cost consultants, project managers, or contract administrators in construction and property sectors.
Yes, demand remains strong due to ongoing construction and infrastructure projects, with skills in cost management highly valued.
Starting salaries typically range from £25,000 to £35,000, with experienced quantity surveyors earning significantly more as they progress.
Mastering cost estimating and legal contract knowledge can be challenging but essential for success in the field.
Most work in construction firms, consultancy agencies, government infrastructure projects, and property management companies.
Yes, Quantity Surveying is highly respected for its critical role in managing construction costs and ensuring project success.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked