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RICS’ new grade of associate membership, launched last year, now includes project management.

AssocRICS is an entry level professional qualification that offers an alternative to the RICS graduate route for those without a degree.

It can also offer a progressive route to chartered project management surveyor status for highly skilled professionals by enabling project managers with vocational competence to undertake study modules to work towards a final assessment of professional competence.

The associate assessment process is online and competency based, and the qualification is achieved by demonstrating that RICS standards have been met through relevant work experience and/or qualifications.

Louis Armstrong, RICS chief executive, said: “This new, entry-level, qualification is an excellent opportunity for many in the industry to prove their expertise with a professional qualification.

"Since its launch last November we have been pleased with the support the associate grade has already received, with over 1000 people already registering an interest.

"The backing from the construction industry, with companies such as Balfour Beatty, Costain, Carillion and Kier signing up to launch the first pathway, for quantity surveyors, has been very encouraging."