Possible uni course - what to ask?

[wanttoworkbut]

Inspired by my previous thread about where the actual job shortages are (because we hear plenty about how dire the job market is) I am looking at re-training as a surveyor. My local uni does a 1 year MSc effectively a conversion course, gets you RCIS membership too. Its a mad amount of money - well, to me it is. But I think its work I could do for another 20 years and would withstand the risks of another redundancy. I have worked in a related field and could 're-specialise'.

BUT I have missed the open days, it starts Sept, I'd have to apply now. I've no idea what I should be asking. I want a career as above but they can't guarantee that obviously. I can see the module topics and the teaching days of the week on their website. What else do I need to know before blowing my redundancy money?

I also looked at doing this a few years ago, again I work in a related field. The only thing I can see about what your saying is that - as far as I’m aware - RICS membership isn’t the same as being MRICS or FRICS, so it wouldn’t necessarily mean you could apply for jobs as a surveyor, you would have to go through the MRICS process as well which if I recall was again quite costly and took a few years. Unless you’ve found something amazing in which case please share!

Yes just googled to refresh my memory - there’s 2 years post grad APC for which you have to have a job but you’re not a surveyor…

Where is the course? Is it Salford?

I went to an open day for Salford. There were people from lots of different backgrounds looking to do the masters. Tutor said the job market / APC prospects were good especially around Manchester. You do need to do a 2 year APC after your masters before you are RICS accredited.

Ah right they offer a 2 year more specialist course as well, I was wondering why. Very helpful thank you.

Would you not be eligible for a Government Postgraduate Loan? Or is the course so expensive it would be a drop in the ocean?

Depends how much time pressure you’re feeling for a new start. From now to September would be an awful scramble. (About a decade ago I discovered the postgrad course I wanted in February - which gave just enough time to explore, discuss, apply, sort out admin, prepare mentally - after years out of academia. Realistically I could have done with another year to prepare specifically for the particular subject I studied.)

But of course if you feel you can do it now it may be wise to grasp the opportunity. Who knows what might have changed in your life by next year - possibly you may feel less free to embark on this adventure if you leave it.

How many hours of contact time is it a week?
How is it assessed?
Do you get a personal tutor?
Is there any on site experience or placements included in the course?
Do they work with connections to introduce you to summer internships or similar after the course?

I am unemployed after redundancy @TheMarriageOfAirAndFrockso I guess I have time. I do have post-grad qualifications already so I know what's involved as to the level of study I suppose.

Great questions - thanks!

What type of surveyor are you interested in becoming? Have you undertaken any work experience to better understand the role?

Questions -
What percentage of last year’s students were sponsored by their employer?
For self funding students, what percentage secure a surveying role within a year of graduating?
What percentage qualify (pass their APC) within three / five years of graduating?

Thank you @LadyLapsang I haven't actually. But Ive worked in a related field and in particular know the value of a good QS!