University of Johannesburg

Bachelor of Science Honours in Construction Project Management

Physical Planning and Construction - Building Construction

Purpose and Rationale

Purpose:

The purpose of the Bachelor of Science Honours in Construction Project Management is to provide learners with the necessary professional attributes, project management skills, and Construction Project Management competencies, which would allow them to plan, execute, monitor, control, and close projects. They will be accountable for the entire project scope, project team, resources, and the success or failure of the project. Upon completion of this qualification, learners will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate knowledge of advanced construction project management methods and techniques.
  2. Apply project management principles to effectively solve problems in the construction industry.
  3. Evaluate the various roles and functions in the construction project management process.
  4. Evaluate legislative requirements in the construction industry.
  5. Evaluate available resources during construction project management processes.
  6. Conduct research projects in the construction industry.

Rationale:

The Bachelor of Science Honours in Construction Project Management lies within the construction sector. Construction Project Management is considered to be a scarce skill. Given this, the qualification has been designed so that it directly meets the needs of the sector, contributing ultimately towards the National Development Plan, benefiting not only the learner but society at large. The qualification meets the specific needs of the sector by meeting and providing for the growing demand for registered Construction Project Managers. As a result of the qualification's endorsement by the South African Council for Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP), learners will be able to move from candidacy to full registration as a Professional Construction Project Manager upon completion of the qualification.

On completion of the qualification learners would be able to register and practice as a Professional Consultant Construction Project Manager and they may find employment within the construction contracting fraternity. Construction Managers are also employed in the mining and petrochemical sectors. The qualification is designed to target recent graduates who would be interested in academic advancement through postgraduate studies. The main stakeholders of this qualification are the public and private sectors of the construction industry. Typically, these sectors require higher levels of technical and analytical capabilities. This qualification has been carefully designed to graduate such specialists in the field.

In this way, it is anticipated that this qualification will develop well-rounded, academically equipped, adept, and mature managers with technical leadership skills and strong capabilities that are expediently responsive to modern societal needs of the industry. Therefore, this qualification will enable these graduates to successfully fulfill the requirements of registration with the South African Council for Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP) as a professional Construction Project Manager.

Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate knowledge of construction project management methods and techniques.
  2. Apply project management principles to effectively solve problems in the construction industry.
  3. Critically evaluate the various roles and functions in the construction project management process.
  4. Critically evaluate legislative requirements in the construction industry.
  5. Critically evaluate available resources during construction project management processes.
  6. Conduct research projects in the construction industry.

Assessment Criteria

Exit Level Outcome 1:

Associated Assessment Criteria:

  • Correctly apply construction project management principles to practical issues and problems in the construction industry.
  • Comprehensively discuss the benefits and challenges of mechanisation techniques to project success.

Benefits and Challenges of Mechanisation Techniques to Project Success: Mechanisation techniques in construction projects can significantly impact project success. Some benefits include increased efficiency, reduced labor costs, improved accuracy, and faster completion times. However, challenges such as high initial investment costs, maintenance requirements, skilled labor shortage, and potential job displacement need to be considered. It is essential for project managers to carefully assess the specific needs of each project and weigh the benefits against the challenges to determine the most suitable mechanisation techniques to ensure project success.

Exit Level Outcome 2:

Associated Assessment Criteria:

  • Critically discuss the challenges and benefits of the role of Human Resource Management in the projects.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of Industrial Relations issues as they pertain to the construction projects.

Role of Human Resource Management and Industrial Relations in Projects: Human resource management plays a crucial role in project success by ensuring the right people are in the right roles, managing conflicts, and fostering a positive work environment. Challenges such as team dynamics, communication issues, and employee motivation need to be addressed to ensure project success. Industrial relations issues such as labor disputes, strikes, and compliance with labor laws can impact project timelines and costs. Project managers need to have a deep understanding of human resource management principles and industrial relations to effectively manage project teams and mitigate risks.

Exit Level Outcome 3:

Associated Assessment Criteria:

  • Clearly illustrate the roles as a team member and team leader, in the construction project management process.
  • Critically evaluate the challenges and risks in the project management cycle.
  • Correctly analyze and forecast project management success or failure.

Team Roles and Challenges in Project Management: Effective teamwork is essential for project success, with team members and leaders playing distinct but interconnected roles. Challenges such as conflicting priorities, lack of communication, and scope creep can hinder project progress. Project managers need to identify and address these challenges proactively to ensure project success. By critically evaluating the project management cycle, analyzing potential risks, and forecasting outcomes, project managers can make informed decisions to steer projects towards success.

Exit Level Outcome 4:

Associated Assessment Criteria:

  • Correctly apply the fundamental principles of commercial and mercantile law.
  • Demonstrate the correct understanding of contractual claims, administration of construction contracts, and procurement processes.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the South African Council for Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP) Act.
  • Critically evaluate the role of Ethics and professional practice in the discipline.

Legal Principles and Ethics in Project Management: A solid understanding of commercial and mercantile law is crucial for project managers to navigate contractual agreements, claims, and procurement processes effectively. Compliance with the SACPCMP Act ensures ethical and professional conduct in the construction industry. Project managers must uphold high ethical standards, adhere to legal requirements, and demonstrate integrity in their professional practice to build trust with stakeholders and ensure project success.

Exit Level Outcome 5:

Associated Assessment Criteria:

  • Critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of an organization that impact project success.
  • Compare threats and opportunities in the industry affecting project success.
  • Offer viable and innovative solutions for projects with constrained resources.

Organization Analysis and Project Success: Understanding an organization's strengths and weaknesses is essential for project managers to leverage resources effectively and address potential challenges. By comparing threats and opportunities in the industry, project managers can anticipate risks and capitalize on trends to enhance project success. Innovative solutions tailored to the specific constraints of a project can maximize efficiency and outcomes, demonstrating adaptability and strategic thinking in project management.

Exit Level Outcome 6:

Associated Assessment Criteria:

  • Demonstrate the ability to independently investigate and conduct research within the discipline.
  • Accurately analyze and interpret results to provide valid conclusions.

Research Skills and Analysis in Project Management: Independent research skills are essential for project managers to stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and innovative solutions. Accurate analysis and interpretation of research findings enable project managers to make informed decisions, identify opportunities for improvement, and drive project success. By continuously enhancing research skills and critical analysis capabilities, project managers can adapt to evolving challenges and contribute to the advancement of the construction industry.

Integrated Assessment:

Formative Assessment: Formative assessments such as project reports, case studies, and assignments are essential for learners to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios and receive feedback for improvement. These assessments help learners develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills necessary for effective project management.

Summative Assessment: Combining intermediate assessments with a final examination allows for a comprehensive evaluation of learners' understanding and application of project management principles. External assessors provide impartial feedback and ensure the rigor and quality of assessments. The Research Report component further enhances research and analytical skills, preparing learners for real-world challenges in project management.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
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University of Johannesburg
University of Johannesburg
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Description
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is a public university located in Johannesburg, South Africa. It was established in 2005 through the merger of the Rand Afrikaans University, Technikon Witwatersrand, and the Soweto and East Rand campuses of Vista University. UJ is one of the largest universities in South Africa, with over 50,000 students enrolled across its four campuses. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields, including arts, humanities, sciences, engineering, business, and health sciences. UJ is known for its commitment to providing quality education, promoting social justice, and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.