Graduate Pathway - FAQs

How can I apply to work as a graduate at SHW?

Visit the vacancies page on the SHW website: Job vacancies at SHW | SHW

What training can I expect at SHW?

• SHW offers sponsorship for apprentices and non-cognate graduates to gain RICS accredited degrees.

• APC candidates are guided through the process by a dedicated APC counsellor and provided with routine internal and external training sessions by APC experts.

• SHW’s mentorship scheme provides all graduates and apprentices with a senior colleague to learn from in addition to their line manager.

Can I join the SHW graduate programme without an RICS accredited degree?

Yes, non-cognate graduates (those with degrees in other disciplines) can attend an online, remote university course to study for their RICS accredited degree whilst working. SHW sponsorship of university fees is available.

How long does an MSc take to complete?
An MSc in Commercial Real Estate or Building Surveying will take non-cognate graduates 2 years to complete if undertaken remotely whilst on the job.

How do I manage university, APC and day-to-day work?
Undertaking an MSc and the APC alongside day-to-day work can be challenging and time management is important. Employees are required to complete their MSc before commencing their APC studies in earnest. Juggling work and studies can be tricky but a wealth of experience is on hand from ex-graduates who have been through the same process.

How does the apprenticeship scheme differ from the graduate scheme?

Apprentices will undertake a 5-year Real Estate degree whilst working before undertaking their final APC assessment. Apprentices benefit from one day off a week to focus on their studies.

What is the APC?

‘APC’ stands for Assessment of Professional Competence. It is the assessment that a surveyor must pass in order to become a qualified, Chartered Surveyor and a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

How long does the APC take and what is involved?

The APC is a 2-year undertaking from enrolment through to the first opportunity to sit the final assessment. Applicants are required to build up experience in a number of different surveying competencies and be able to demonstrate this to an assessment panel. The final assessment involves a written submission and panel interview.

Am I eligible to enrol in the APC?

To enrol in the APC, candidates must have either an RICS accredited degree or be able to demonstrate at least 5 years’ surveying experience.

How are employees supported through the APC process?

• Those enrolled in the APC will benefit from a dedicated APC counsellor.

• Both internal and external mock interviews by APC assessors are provided.

• Regular meetings and training events provide candidates with all the information they need to be successful in their qualification.

Will I get out of the office to go on inspections?

Regardless of the role you occupy as a graduate or apprentice, property inspections will be part of the job and will see you visit different types of commercial property.

What are the opportunities for progression?

SHW prides itself on its opportunities for internal progression and provides structured training programmes to facilitate this. Many of SHW’s associates, directors and partners started their career as graduates at the firm. Listen to some current employees discuss their career progression at SHW here: SHW Graduate Pathway Full Edit - YouTube.

Will I socialise with other graduates and apprentices?

Quarterly training events and socials are hosted for graduates company-wide. Various sports events from football to beach volleyball to kayaking are hosted in SHW’s annual Summer of Sport.