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CIOB launches its first degree to train next-gen construction leaders
Nicky Roger Associate editor
The new course will give apprentices the knowledge and skills they need to lead, manage and coordinate the design and construction processes. Image: Dreamstime
CIOB has announced the launch of its first-ever degree programme in partnership with De Montfort University in Leicester.
CIOB’s Level 6 Design, Construction and Management BSc Integrated Degree Apprenticeship marks a significant milestone in the Institute’s commitment to developing skilled professionals across the built environment.
The new programme combines academic learning with practical, on-the-job experience, giving apprentices the knowledge and skills they need to lead, manage and coordinate the design and construction processes on building and infrastructure projects.
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It allows students to earn while they learn, something 42% of parents surveyed by CIOB in 2026 said they would prefer their child to do rather than traditional university courses.
Rosalind Thorpe, director of education and standards at CIOB, said the degree is a further step forward in shaping a generation of professionally competent construction managers. “Designing our own course, using insights from education experts as well as our own members enables us to embed our ethical standards, technical expectations and professional pathways directly into higher education, creating a clear route from apprentice to chartered membership.
“The classroom elements of the course will be carried out online, which gives apprentices far greater flexibility and means they can access the content from anywhere in the country.”
Course aimed at those in design and procurement roles
Applicants for the new degree apprenticeship will be working in roles that include leading and overseeing design, coordination and procurement processes within consultant design organisations such as architectural, engineering or architectural technology practices.
Apprentices may also work closely with clients and construction teams throughout the project lifecycle, including briefing, design, delivery and handover stages.
Thorpe continued: “Examples of job roles appropriate for the course include architectural technologist, BIM manager, construction manager, project manager and technical manager, to name but a few.
“Our new degree apprenticeship has also been carefully designed to align with leading professional bodies across the built environment.”
To enrol on the programme through CIOB, apprentices must be employed in a trainee role with a relevant job description. There is no requirement for applicants to hold A-levels or equivalent. It is only available to students in England.
Jill Cowley, pro-vice-chancellor of extended education and director of DMU London, said: “The government has set ambitious targets to train thousands of new construction workers, so we’re proud to be working with the CIOB to develop the next generation of construction managers and skilled workers. DMU is an institution focused on improving access and outcomes for students from all backgrounds, finding the right route through higher-level learning that helps fulfil their career ambitions.
“Degree apprenticeships offer students the opportunity to gain real-world experience by working on site while also studying for a university qualification within their relevant field, which makes them immensely attractive and relevant.”
