College of Estate Management, The (CEM)

History: Founded in 1919, CEM is a leading provider of supported distance learning for real estate and construction professionals. Granted taught degree awarding powers in 2012 with the first students to undertake CEM-validated degrees expected to start in 2013.

Address: All degree programmes are taught through supported distance learning designed to fit around careers. The college itself is located in Reading, Berkshire.

Ambience: A structured online study programme with guidance from experienced tutors is provided so there's no need to attend lectures or classes for the majority of study, although there may be some face-to-face teaching. All learning materials are accessible through CEM’s virtual learning environment (VLE), a specialised online resource.

Who's the boss? Dr Ann Heywood is the current principal but will be retiring in July 2013. Her replacement is yet to be announced.

Prospectus: 0118 921 4696 or download one here.

What you need to know

Easy to get into? Entry requirements vary depending on the course. Construction Management asks for 160 UCAS points but Estate Management needs 230 with at least two A-level passes or equivalent.

Vital statistics: CEM have some 3,000 students at any one time spanning more than 100 countries. Students come from all levels of the profession and a wide range of academic backgrounds.

Added value: Has played a key role in the property world for more than 90 years and covers almost every property-related topic at diploma, undergraduate and postgraduate level.Most courses are accredited or recognised by a range of professional bodies including RICS, CIOB, BCSC and BIFM.

Fees: BSc degree programmes cost £15,600 in total, diplomas & professional courses start at £1,495 per year and postgraduate programmes charge £9,990.

Bursaries: A discretionary bursary scheme exists to help new students on low incomes or in financial need. The scheme, in the form of discounted fees for the duration of the course, will help students participate in selected CEM courses. New Student Bursary Scheme funding is available to students studying any BSc degree programme, the diploma in Surveying Practice and the diploma in Construction Practice. The scheme is open to students applying from any country who have been offered a place on the programme having satisfied all the usual eligibility criteria.