Open main menu Close main menu

Menu

Our classroom is a construction site

Construction Management

Construction projects are like big puzzles, with many different pieces. And Construction Managers and Site Supervisors are critical to ensure these pieces built on time and on budget. Study construction management and you’ll learn how to organise, manage and control a construction site. It’s the perfect preparation for projects that can involve hundreds of workers and millions of dollars of materials.

Explore your options

Unitec’s construction management programmes give you the skills and knowledge to plan and run building projects. You’ll learn how to put together a building programme, schedule activities on a construction site, and coordinate the supply of materials and machinery. It’s great preparation for a career as a site manager, construction manager or project manager.

Study construction management and you’ll also learn best practice for the industry. You’ll find out why quality management systems are important and become familiar with resource planning. Our programmes reflect current trends and legislation, which will give you the knowledge you need once you’re out in the workplace. We have integrated Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology and Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) processes as part of our courses; you will learn the basics of BIM and VDC and how to apply them on construction management activities.

And if you’re already working in the industry, we can develop your skills in team leadership and complex problem-solving.

Programmes and study path

Start with a programme that suits your qualifications and/or experience, then progress to a level that achieves your goals.
PROGRAMME LEVEL DURATION CAREER OPTIONS START DATES
New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) - Construction 4 Full-time for 16-weeks or part-time options available This programme prepares you for further study toward a career in construction February or July
New Zealand Diploma in Architectural Technology 6 Full-time for two years, or part-time options available Design draftsperson, Architectural technician, Design technician, CAD technician, Draughtsperson, Architectural Technologist February or July
New Zealand Diploma in Construction (Construction Management) 6 Full-time for two years or part-time options available Construction Management technician, Assistant construction manager, Assistant Project Manager, Construction Co-ordinator, Construction Assistant, Construction Supervisor February or July
Bachelor of Construction (Construction Management) 7 Domestic students: Full-time study for the first two years is recommended, part-time study options are also available as negotiated on a case-by-case basis. International students: 3 years full-time. Construction site manager, Project manager, Project planner, Property developer February or July
Graduate Diploma in Construction Project Management 7 Full-time for 1 year (including 2 x 2-week block courses per semester). Part-time options available. Site manager, Project manager, Construction manager February or July

Industry contacts and opportunities

Industry Connections that Empower Our Students

At Unitec, our strong industry connections are a key part of what sets us apart. We stay closely aligned with the needs of Kiwi businesses, ensuring our programme content is current, future-focused, and relevant. These partnerships not only inform our curriculum but also provide students with valuable access to prospective employers, research expertise, sponsorships, and other professional development opportunities.

Real-World Experience Through Mentorship

Our collaboration with the New Zealand Institute of Building (NZIOB) is a standout example of this industry engagement. Through our mentoring scheme, students in our Construction Management programme are paired with experienced senior construction managers for a full year. This hands-on experience gives students insight into real-world challenges and prepares them for the workforce. Additionally, the NZIOB sponsors several student awards annually, further supporting and recognising emerging talent.

Some of Our Valued Industry Partners Include:

  • Aspec
  • Aurecon
  • Beca
  • Fletcher
  • Hawkins Construction
  • Jasmax
  • Kalmar
  • New Zealand Institute of Building
  • NZStrong
  • Rider Levett Bucknall
  • Stephenson & Turner

These partnerships reflect our commitment to producing work-ready graduates who are equipped to thrive in New Zealand’s dynamic industries.

Accreditation & Recognition

Unitec’s Bachelor of Construction programmes are recognised and accredited by various national and international bodies, ensuring that your qualification is valued by employers worldwide.