Programme overview
Construction sites can involve hundreds of workers and millions of dollars of materials, and construction managers are responsible for managing both. The Bachelor of Construction (Construction
Management) prepares you with the knowledge and skills to organise and manage activities on a construction site, including gaining an in-depth knowledge and understanding of management
structures, supply chain, people and production management. Become familiar with advanced construction management, contract law, tendering and design management, amongst other things.
Highlights
- This programme is fully accredited by the New Zealand Institute of Builders (NZIOB). Graduates of this programme are eligible to become members.
- A good foundation for a career in construction management, providing you with the skills to undertake detailed planning and management of resources applied to construction projects
- An overview of all aspects of the construction industry
- Explore progressively more complex scenarios and projects, and develop the technical skills to schedule activities and resources on construction projects
- Application of Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology and Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) processes
- In your final papers you'll undertake a major industry research project where you can integrate what you've learnt with practical experience
- Relevant to your future career: Unitec’s advisery boards include experts who keep us up-to-date with industry trends and relevant legislation in the construction industry
- Following your shared compulsory papers (first 3 semesters) you'll then choose your major/s* from Construction Management, Property Development, or Construction Economics. This allows you to get a good understanding of the general field first before you choose your direction
- *You may choose to achieve a double major with slightly more coursework (usually 4 papers, 60 credits)
- Lecturers with experience in the construction industry and guest lecturers who are leaders in their field
- Gain exposure and experience to a wide number of construction software.
Recommendation on studying full time
Studying full-time is like doing a full-time job. You might only be in lectures and workshops for 16 hrs a week but you are expected to spend another 24 hours a week on self-directed study, doing quizzes, re-reading lecture content and working on assignments. That makes 40 hours.
We recognize many of you want or need to work whilst you are studying but we would not recommend you to do any more than part-time study if you have a full-time job, and don’t let your working hours overlap with your lecture times.
Qualification pathway
If English is not your first language please be aware that to enter into this programme, you'll need to have achieved at least one English proficiency outcome in the last two years, such as IELTS. This applies to both new students and progressing students (including NZ Diploma in Construction graduates).
This programme is fully accredited by the New Zealand Institute of Builders (NZIOB). Graduates of this programme are eligible to become members.
Admission requirements
For this programme, you need:
Academic requirements
1. 42 credits at NCEA Level 3 or higher including:
- 14 credits in two different approved subjects; and
- 14 credits from up to two subjects (approved or non-approved)
2. 8 credits at NCEA Level 2 or higher in English or Te Reo Maori (4 in reading, 4 in writing)
3. 12 credits in NCEA Level 2 or higher in Mathematics or Pangarau
If you don't meet the academic criteria above, we have a range of Foundation and Bridging Education programmes which will help you prepare for further study.
English requirements
4. If English is not your first language, you will need one or more of the following:
- Have achieved NCEA Level 3 and New Zealand University entrance
- Be able to provide evidence you satisfy our criteria for existing English proficiency
- Have achieved at least one English proficiency outcome in the last two years such as IELTs
Don't meet these requirements? We also accept:
- A relevant qualification at Level 3 on the NZQF or above or an equivalent qualification; OR
- Provide sufficient evidence to be eligible for special or discretionary admission.
For more information, download the programme regulations:
Courses and timetables
For more details on the courses including timetables, please click on the course names below.
| Courses | Credits | Aim |
|---|---|---|
| Building Science and Materials (CONS5016) | 15 credits (0.125 EFTS) | To enable students to understand the basic physical principles of the Built Environment and their relation to buildings materials performance and selection. |
| Technology 1 (CONS5101) | 15 credits (0.125 EFTS) | To enable students to understand construction systems suitable for simple industrial building construction within New Zealand. |
| Technology 2 (CONS5102) | 15 credits (0.125 EFTS) | To enable students to understand construction systems suitable for low and medium density residential construction within New Zealand. |
| Technology 3 (CONS5103) | 15 credits (0.125 EFTS) | To enable students to explore foundations and structural systems in multi-storey construction. |
| Technical Fundamentals (CONS5504) | 15 credits (0.125 EFTS) | To enable students to develop an understanding of the basic techniques and systems involved in planning and estimating. |
| Economic Principles (CONS5812) | 15 credits (0.125 EFTS) | To enable students to explore elements of economic theory and its application to the property and construction sector. |
| Property and Construction Law (CONS5818) | 15 credits (0.125 EFTS) | To enable students to develop an understanding of the legal context in which the construction and property industry operates. |
Unitec is part of Te Pūkenga
On 1 October 2022 Unitec became part of Te Pūkenga. Find out more about Te Pūkenga and what this means for you.
