How to become a CIOB Chartered Fellow without a degree
Learn more about how you can become a CIOB Fellow without the traditional qualifications.
Having a traditional form of education and qualification isn’t the only way to reach your desired goals at CIOB, there are alternative routes available for seasoned professionals who have not pursued this. Becoming a CIOB Chartered Fellow (FCIOB) represents the highest level of professional achievement in the construction management sector – and you can start your Fellowship journey today without a degree.
Professional experience and leadership
CIOB highly values practical experience and leadership skills for aspiring Fellows. If you have been working in the construction industry for at least five years in a senior management or leadership role, you may qualify for Fellowship. Your responsibilities should include overseeing teams or organisations and making significant contributions to the industry, community, or society at large. Demonstrating your leadership through collaboration with stakeholders and successful projects can also strengthen your application.
Alternative qualifications and professional memberships
If you do not have a degree, CIOB accepts a variety of vocational and professional qualifications at Level 6 or above, equivalent to a bachelor's degree. Additionally, memberships in other professional bodies, such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) or the Association for Project Management (APM), can be used as evidence of your expertise for Fellowship. These qualifications and memberships do not have to be construction-related for you to become a Fellow.
The application process
You will submit a 3,000-word reflective account of a project or initiative you have led, showcasing your leadership abilities and the impact you’ve had within the industry. Following this, you will participate in a professional discussion lasting about 1.5 hours, where you will discuss your written submission and address current issues facing the construction sector.
Support and resources
CIOB provides a range of resources to help candidates navigate the Fellowship process. You will begin your journey by attending an online workshop that offers guidance on application requirements and expectations. These workshops are valuable in helping you prepare a strong application and succeed in the professional discussion. We also have a community of professionals that you can reach out to via our CIOB Connect app or you can sign up to receive mentoring from a CIOB Fellow.
Ready to become a CIOB Fellow?
Attaining Chartered Fellowship without a degree is an achievable goal for experienced professionals who have made significant contributions to the construction industry. By leveraging your experience, alternative qualifications and professional memberships, you can reach this prestigious level of recognition.
For more information and to begin your journey towards Chartered Fellowship, head to our CIOB Fellowship page.