RICS SBE Blog

Importance of CPM & CEQS for Civil Engineers & Architects

Written by Avinash Kumar Tandon MRICS | Mar 26, 2019 12:07:07 PM

National Skill Development Corporation has estimated that the construction sector requires around eight crore new jobs as a result of rapid development and urbanisation across the country. The industry has realised the importance of project managers and quantity surveyors in this domain.

Earlier, construction projects used to compromise on quality to finish off work in time. Although the condition is slowly improving, the country indeed requires a steady flow of skilled professionals in this sector to meet the growing demands of Urban India. Today, the industry has taken cues from developed countries to put Construction Project Management and Quantity Surveying practices into action and encouraging more engineers and architects to explore this lucrative career option.

What is Construction Project Management? (CPM)

From the Pyramid of Giza to the new-age Burj Khalifa, every project is directed by a construction project manager. Their prime responsibility is to chalk out a plan to efficiently manage a construction project from initiation to the end. Architects, engineers, and builders, all follow the lead of a project manager to meet the construction goals. The key responsibilities of a CPM are:

  • Design Management: This includes making the building look good and function optimally
  • Construction Scheduling: This includes assessing time taken for construction tasks
  • Contract Management: This includes managing all the contractors for a project
  • Construction Estimation: This includes estimating resources needed for the project
  • Documentation and Monitoring: This includes analysing all the project progress

The list does not end here. In fact, every other process of a construction worker is integrated into the job role of a project manager. These responsibilities make it one of the most promising jobs in the country.

With an MBA in Construction Project Management, students will gain hands-on experience in the following aspects:

  • Inception and master planning of projects
  • Project outlining and task assignment
  • Procurement and documentation of contracts
  • Management of construction tasks

What is Construction Economics and Quantity Surveying? (CEQS)

A quantity surveyor, also known as construction economist, is a professional working within the construction industry. The key role of the quantity surveyor is to manage and control costs within the construction projects. It may involve the use of a range of technical tools and management procedures to achieve this goal.

They primarily control construction costs by the application of expert knowledge of costs and prices of work, accurate measurement of the work required, and understanding of the implications of designs at an early stage to ensure that a good value is obtained for the money to be expended.

With an MBA in CEQS, students will gain experience in:

  • Estimation of quantities and submission of tenders
  • Calculation of quantities for the superstructure, internal/external finishes, and reinforcement steel
  • Quantity estimation of CAD Drawings
  • Post contract functions which include monthly valuations
  • Contracts Administration

Following are some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q1. What is the scope of these fields?

The growth that is currently seen in India is massive. Plan for 100 smart cities, 2 crore housing program and construction of highways and airports account to the fact that this field has a huge potential. Furthermore, the demand compared to the supply is quite less. So, the nation requires a steady flow of professionals in this sector.

Q2. Difference between BIM and CPM.

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is all about 3D modelling and complex and new technology. So, it requires AutoCAD 3D, Primavera and other essential softwares. Internationally, BIM is already a viral technology, and it is slowly making a considerable space in Indian industries. Construction Project Management involves the management of a project at all levels from planning to execution.

Q3. Should I get further certifications post completion of B.Tech?

Having only a B.Tech or B.Arch degree won’t be sufficient for your future growth. Adding an MBA to your CV would definitely add a great deal of value to your future-ready career plans. In fact, the present scenario is such that many companies are hiring and giving promotions on the basis of one’s educational qualifications. With only a B.Tech degree, you can limit yourself to better opportunities. Hence, further certifications won’t be necessary. One MBA degree that is UGC recognised would make all the difference.

Q4. I want to start my own business as a civil conductor. How do I go about it?

If you’re a bachelor in Civil Engineering, you are already eligible to take government contracts worth 15-20 Lacs. However, having an MBA degree would give you the opportunity to take contracts worth 30-35 Lacs (Approximately.) It is always advisable to attain the highest qualification and stand out from the rest.

Q5. Does RICS SBE provide good internship experiences?

RICS SBE has tie-ups with more than 350 companies, inside and outside India. It actively takes the responsibility to provide students with internships. In fact, most internships that students have undertaken have been converted into their placements.

Q6. What is the basic eligibility required to pursue these CPM and CEQS?

Candidates are required to have a minimum 50% marks in graduation along with a minimum score of MAT - 500/GMAT – 500 / CMAT - 150 Or percentile in CAT/XAT - 75 / NMAT - 60 Or Amity Written Test on the day of Interview.

If you are an engineer or an architect, the opportunity to build a fast-pacing career in CPM and CEQS lies ahead. Apply now!

Learn more: Thinking about what to do after Civil Engineering? Here are 5 incredible career paths for you.