The module will provide learners with the necessary legal knowledge to understand and identify the complexities of law surrounding construction contracts. In doing so learners will be able to recognise and confront the kinds of problems that can get in the way of successful construction contract/project management. The legal meaning and implications of key terms in construction contracts and their impact on the administration will be examined in detail. The principal legal differences between standard forms of contract, both national and international, will be identified and evaluated. The nature and type of construction claims will be considered as well as the various dispute resolution mechanisms currently employed within the construction industry.

1. Appraise the various types and standard forms of construction contracts in common use in the construction industry demonstrating a critical awareness of the main contractual framework established in the main standard form of construction contract and the significance of specific contractual terms within a construction contract
2. Critically assess the role, obligations and responsibilities of the employer, contractor and subcontractorunder construction contracts.
3. Assess and analyse legal concepts/facts and formulate reasoned legal opinion/advice.
4. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the legal and statutory requirements for the resolution of construction contractual disputes including conflict management and dispute resolution procedures within the construction process including the requirements and function of the expert witness within the construction industry and in particular their role and the importance of evidence.
5. Critically analyse and appraisethe key legal concepts underpinning standard construction terms and provisions which are encountered in the administration of construction contracts.
6. Assess and appraise the validity of various contractual claims

The module considers the nature and importance of contracts and procurement and their role within project management. Procurement and contracts are integral to successful project delivery. This course examines the processes used to procure products and services that are required by the project team or the project organisation. Students learn how to plan procurements, conduct a tendering process, negotiate and administer the resulting contract. A key aspect to this course is developing an understanding of the key legal implications of contracts as they relate to project success.

1. Critically analyse the effect procurement and contract management strategies have on the overall project system.
2. Evaluate thestandardmethods of procurementand demonstate the ability to give reasoned advice on the appropriateness of various procurement routes.
3. Critically assess the varying forms of contract andthe incorporation ofterms and conditionsrelating to theexposure, transfer and mitigation of risk.
4. Establish effective project communications plan and performance measurement/monitoring against contractual terms.
5. Demonstrate knowledge and applied understanding of important legal issues that underpin and influence both contract and procurement law. Critically analyse the key legalconceptstaht may arise fromparticular procurement option.
6. Critically evaluate the theory and development of negotiating approaches and to develop appropriate negotiation strategies for use in project management.

This module introduces the student to the various economic schools and examines the economics of the construction sector and the economic environment in which construction firms operate. The module also aims to develop the students awareness and understanding of financial management in construction and how companies structure their finances and the sources of capital. The module will introduce the leaner to various methods for construction project appraisal, with particular emphasis on; Net Present Worth evaluation, Equivalent Annual Worth and Internal Rate of Return techniques.

1. Critically appraise the importance of the construction industry to the economy.
2. Develop an understanding of the effects of macroeconomic policies on construction firms and their response to such policies.
3. Analyse and assess the theories of corporate and financial planning of organisations in the construction industry and appreciate the relevance of business strategy to construction contractors.
4. Demonstrate a critical awareness of the need for financial management in construction.
5. Financially appraise and evaluate alternative schemes and strategies.