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Quantity Surveying

Quantity surveyors are essential to any construction project getting off the ground. They measure and estimate building costs and keep the whole project on budget. Study quantity surveying and you’ll learn how to estimate, price and tender for building work, as well as developing the skills to keep project finances under control.

Explore your options

Study quantity surveying and you’ll learn the skills to keep a construction project running smoothly at every stage of the build. How? Because quantity surveyors are skilled in identifying all the stages of construction involved and pricing them accordingly.

Unitec’s quantity surveying programmes give you the tools to identify the different stages of work and build a realistic budget so there are no nasty surprises along the way.  The Construction Economics major shows you how to build tender documents and manage construction costs. And the National Diploma in Quantity Surveying gives you confidence and flexibility to negotiate with clients, builders, sub-contractor, and authorities.

Whichever quantity surveying programme you choose, you’ll stay up-to-date with industry trends, relevant legislation and environmental issues. In fact, our programmes are developed with the industry so that what you learn will be relevant to your job from day one. We have integrated Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology and Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) processes as part of our courses; and you will learn the basics of BIM and VDC and how to apply them on quantity surveying activities.

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 3) 3 Full-time for 16 weeks or part-time options available Entry into further study at certificate or diploma level. February or July
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 Construction (Quantity Surveying) 6 Full-time for two years or part-time options available Subcontractor quantity surveyor, Contract administrator, Subcontractor quantity surveyor February or July
Bachelor of Construction (Construction Economics) 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 quantity surveyor, Consultant quantity surveyor, Commercial manager, Project manager, Property financial adviser February or July

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.

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.