BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment is equivalent in size to two A Levels. It allows you to develop significant core knowledge within construction and the built environment disciplines.

The content of this qualification has been developed in consultation with employers and professional bodies to ensure that it is appropriate for those interested in working in the sector. In addition, higher education representatives have been involved to ensure that it supports entry to the relevant range of specialist degrees.

The qualification provides the essential knowledge, understanding and skills that will allow you to progress directly to employment, or to an apprenticeship in the construction sector.

There are five mandatory units, which cover the following aspects of construction:

• construction principles
• construction design
• health and safety in construction
• construction technology
• surveying in construction

Although you only need to attend College part time, this is a fast paced course and you’re expected to dedicate up to 20 hours per week to self-study, making it equivalent to a full time commitment.

There are many roles in this sector where recruitment is at graduate level. The qualification carries UCAS points and is recognised by higher education providers as contributing to the admission requirements to many relevant courses, for example, higher level studies and HTQs in Construction. Visit our course page for the Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Construction Management for England (HTQ)

Please click on the National Careers Service links below to discover career paths that this degree will lead into:

• Architectural Technician
• Construction Site Supervisor
• Construction Manager
• Building Technician
• Quantity Surveyor
• Building Surveyor
• CAD Technician

No prior study of the sector is needed, but you should normally have a range of achievement at Level 2, in GCSEs or equivalent qualifications, including English, Mathematics and Science at grade C (4).

Excellent classrooms with access to IT equipment and variety of books, journals and online resources through the College Learning Resource Centres (LRCs). You will study at our Future Skills Centre, which opened in 2021 near Exeter Airport. The centre has free onsite parking as well as an onsite café and designated study room for adult learners.