A surveying graduate scheme is designed to immerse recent graduates in the field of surveying through a structured training and development program. These schemes offer a combination of hands-on experience, mentorship, and academic learning to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Graduates undertake a variety of projects, working alongside experienced surveyors, gaining exposure to different surveying disciplines such as land, building, and quantity surveying.
They often rotate through various departments or projects to develop a comprehensive understanding of the industry.
The purpose of a surveying graduate scheme is to cultivate the next generation of skilled surveyors, ensuring they are well-equipped with the latest techniques, technologies, and professional standards. It’s a critical step in professional development, leading to qualifications and accreditations, like becoming a Chartered Surveyor. The benefits include accelerated career progression, networking opportunities, and enhanced skills that are highly valued in the industry.
These schemes are pivotal in maintaining high standards within the surveying profession, contributing to the overall integrity and reliability of the industry.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a surveying graduate scheme, you need to have a strong educational background and relevant coursework. Here are the details:
Educational Background
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Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree in surveying, civil engineering, building engineering, or a related field is typically required.
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Accreditation: It’s beneficial if your degree is accredited by a recognized professional body such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
Relevant Degrees
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Surveying: Specialized degrees in surveying cover topics like land measurement, property law, and construction management.
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Civil Engineering: Focuses on the design and construction of infrastructure.
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Building Engineering: Covers the technical aspects of building design and construction.
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Environmental Management: Focuses on sustainable development and environmental impact assessment.
Specific Coursework
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Design Principles and Surveying Skills: Fundamental knowledge of surveying techniques and principles.
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Law: Pre-and Post-Contract Procedures: Understanding legal aspects related to construction and property.
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Residential Construction, Refurbishment, and Maintenance: Courses on building maintenance and renovation.
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Commercial and Industrial Technology: Knowledge of commercial property and industrial construction.
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Science and Materials: Courses on building materials and their properties.
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Building Pathology and Structural Appraisal: Identifying defects and assessing structural integrity.
These qualifications and skills will prepare you for a successful career in surveying and help you stand out in a graduate scheme application.
Application Process
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Research Open Schemes: Look for surveying graduate schemes on company websites, job boards like Bright Network, and industry-specific sites like RICS Recruit. Companies like Knight Frank, Savills, AtkinsRéalis, and Shepherd Chartered Surveyors often have openings.
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Prepare Application Materials: Gather your CV, cover letter, and any other required documents. Tailor your CV to highlight relevant skills and experiences, and write a personalized cover letter for each application.
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Complete Online Application: Fill out the online application form provided by the company.
This may include answering questions about your background, skills, and motivations.
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Take Psychometric Tests: Many companies require candidates to complete online psychometric tests. These tests assess your cognitive abilities, personality traits, and suitability for the role.
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Attend Interviews: You may be invited to a telephone or video interview, followed by an assessment centre or face-to-face interview. Prepare by practicing common interview questions and researching the company.
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Complete Online Tasks: Some companies may ask you to complete online tasks like e-tray exercises, which simulate real work scenarios.
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Presentations: Be prepared to give a presentation on a topic chosen by the employer.
Practice your presentation skills and ensure your content is clear and concise.
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Follow Up: After the interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the role.
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Stay Informed: Keep track of application deadlines and follow up on your application status if you haven’t heard back within the expected timeframe.
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Network: Connect with professionals in the industry through events, social media, and professional organizations. Networking can provide valuable insights and potential job leads.
By following these steps, you can increase your chances of securing a position in a surveying graduate scheme. Good luck with your applications!
Training and Development
The surveying graduate scheme offers a range of training and development opportunities designed to equip graduates with the skills and experience needed to advance their careers in surveying. These opportunities include:
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Bespoke Programme: Tailored to develop both professional and technical skills specific to the surveying industry.
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Structured Learning Workshops: Regular workshops focused on key areas of surveying practice.
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In-House CPD Events: Continuous Professional Development events to keep graduates up-to-date with industry standards and practices.
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Support from Graduate Programme Team: Dedicated support to help graduates navigate their training and development.
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Access to In-House RICS APC Assessors: Guidance and mentorship from assessors for the RICS Assessment of Professional Competence.
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Experienced Surveyors Support: Practical knowledge and experience shared by seasoned professionals.
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Experience in a Range of Sectors: Exposure to various sectors within surveying to broaden understanding and expertise.
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Graduate Forum: A platform for peer-to-peer support and networking.
These programs help graduates gain practical experience by providing hands-on learning opportunities and real-world projects. They also facilitate career advancement by preparing graduates for professional qualifications like the RICS APC, which is essential for becoming a chartered surveyor.
Additionally, the exposure to different sectors and continuous professional development ensures that graduates are well-rounded and adaptable professionals in the surveying industry.
Career Progression
Completing a surveying graduate scheme opens up a range of career progression opportunities. Graduates can pursue roles such as Building Surveyor, Quantity Surveyor, Construction Project Manager, Estimator, and Urban Planner. These roles involve tasks like assessing building quality, managing construction costs, overseeing project timelines, and planning urban developments.
Career paths for surveying graduates include advancing to senior positions within their field, specializing in areas like heritage buildings or infrastructure, or transitioning into related fields such as real estate or project management.
Long-term benefits include high earning potential, job stability, and the chance to work on impactful projects that shape the built environment.
A Surveying Graduate Scheme: A Pathway to Success
A surveying graduate scheme is a structured training program designed to equip recent graduates with the skills and experience needed to succeed in the surveying industry. The scheme offers hands-on learning opportunities, mentorship, and academic learning to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Graduates work on various projects, rotating through different departments or sectors to develop a comprehensive understanding of the industry.
How to Apply for a Surveying Graduate Scheme
To apply for a surveying graduate scheme, you need to have a strong educational background in surveying, civil engineering, building engineering, or a related field. Relevant coursework includes design principles, law, residential construction, commercial technology, and science and materials.
Research open schemes on company websites, job boards, and industry-specific sites.
The Application Process
Prepare application materials, complete online applications, take psychometric tests, attend interviews, and present your skills and experiences.
The scheme offers bespoke training programs, structured learning workshops, in-house CPD events, support from a graduate program team, and access to experienced surveyors.
Career Opportunities
Completing a surveying graduate scheme opens up career progression opportunities, including roles such as building surveyor, quantity surveyor, construction project manager, estimator, and urban planner.
The long-term benefits include high earning potential, job stability, and the chance to work on impactful projects that shape the built environment.
