Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Ara Institute of CanterburyBachelor of Construction (Quantity Surveying)
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Bachelor's Degree
Duration
3 years
Next start date
Expected Feb 2027
Campus
Christchurch - City Campus
Summary
This degree will prepare you to accurately measure and price work, and to deliver clear, confident advice on costs, contracts and procurement.
You'll develop the technical, analytical and commercial skills needed to manage project costs from concept to completion ensuring construction projects are delivered on budget, efficiently and sustainably. The programme also strengthens key professional capabilities, including clear communication, ethical judgement, cultural awareness and sustainability-focused thinking.
With strong industry consultation, project-based learning and integrated work experience, you'll graduate ready to step into the construction industry.
Key highlightsIndustry-informed learning » Shaped through consultation with construction employers and industry professionals to ensure graduates meet current sector expectations.
Flexible study » Full-time and part-time study pathways available. In the final year, each course requires only four on-campus classes for added flexibility regardless of study mode.
Hands-on, applied learning » Learn through authentic measurement, estimation and cost-planning projects reflecting real construction documentation and industry workflows.
Digital construction capability » Develop expertise using industry-standard tools including Excel, CostX and Building Information Modelling (BIM).
Sustainability and strategic thinking » Learn to provide financial advice considering economic, environmental and social sustainability across the project lifecycle.
What you'll learn- Measurement and quantity take-offs
- Estimating and cost planning
- Contracts, procurement and documentation
- Financial administration and cost reporting
- Research and problem-solving for industry issues
Entry criteria
Academic RequirementsUniversity Entrance as specified by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) including:
- Mathematics - 12 credits in Maths at Level 2 or above (Excluding Statistics).
Or New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) Construction and ICT Pathway or equivalent.
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
* NZQA approved subjects: see https://www2.nzqa.govt.nz/ncea/understanding-secondary-quals/university-entrance/
Alternative RequirementsStill want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
- If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
- Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
What if English is not my first Language?
Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic
- 5.5 Listening
- 5.5 Reading
- 5.5 Writing
- 5.5 Speaking
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives
- English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, please book a PTE Academic test through the Ara Examination Centre or complete an NZQA-approved English language test in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
What if I have achieved New Zealand University Entrance?
If you have met New Zealand University Entrance requirements or acceptable alternatives as defined by NZQA you are not required to provide evidence of English Language proficiency.
Selection RequirementsApplicants who meet the entry requirements will be accepted into the programme in the order that applications are received.
Disclaimer