The Bachelor of Building Surveying and Control gives learners the knowledge and skills they need to carry out management tasks, survey buildings, and assess building applications against legal requirements and regulations in the building regulatory environment.
Graduates will be able to process plans, conduct building inspections, understand the science of building pathology and access building defects to prepare for court proceedings, work with building codes and standards, use digital tools that support building surveying requirements and understand the applied management task needed to be carried out in Building Surveying.
This programme provides existing staff or those new to the industry an entry into building surveying and control with a focus on assessing and maintaining the safety and quality within the building regulatory environment.
It also provides a pathway for graduates who hold a diploma or equivalent qualifications in building surveying and control, while recognising the knowledge and skills of those who are currently employed in the industry and seeking career progression. It is the ideal next step for those who have already completed their NZ Diploma in Building Surveying with us.
This is the first degree of its type in New Zealand, and it will provide the education needed for gaining a long-term career in the Building Surveying industry.
This programme leads to successful careers as Building Control Officers, Building Surveyors, Building Inspectors and Building Compliance Officers.
Job growth
Take your place in one of the fastest growing sectors in the country. Construction is the fifth largest sector in New Zealand’s economy, employing just over a quarter of a million people. Around 4,800 new jobs a year will be created in construction in the years to 2028, according to the government’s medium to long-term employment outlook.
Building consents and Activity
2,926 building consents were issued in April 2024, which is a six percent increase from April 2023. There was a 21 percent increase in stand-alone homes which contributed to the overall increase in homes consented.
22,000 houses are needed over the next decade in Auckland alone, and 125,000 additional houses across New Zealand over the next five years due to population growth. There have already been 17,100 more jobs filled in construction in June 2023 compared to June 2022, and this is expected to continue increasing further.
Auckland represents over a third of New Zealand's construction activity, due to its extensive housing projects. However, there are opportunities elsewhere including various roading projects, Christchurch's rebuild, and Wellington's earthquake strengthening, ensuring there are plenty of opportunities all over New Zealand.
Better Pay
Building Surveyors usually earn between $61,000 and $112,000 per year.
Source: Stats NZ, Careers NZ
Academic Requirements
You will need to have New Zealand University Entrance or equivalent. You will need to have 14 NCEA Level 3 credits in each of three approved subjects. You will need 10 Literacy credits at Level 2 or above including five credits in reading and five in writing. You will need 10 Numeracy credits at Level 1 or above.
Special Admission
You will need to be at least 20 years old by the first day of study and have sufficient evidence of aptitude, or work or life experience that would indicate a successful outcome in your qualification. This experience should be in the trades area, building construction, plumbing, civil architectural drafting, or engineering fields. Your evidence can comprise written evidence, an interview, referee checks or a combination of these.
Other requirements
Applicants not currently working in the building and construction industry may be interviewed to assess their suitability for the programme. This includes the ability to complete a minimum of 746 hours of authentic work experience in Building Surveying and Control in New Zealand.
Applicants working in the industry must have been working in a technical role in the building regulatory environment (or similar) for at least one year and be able to provide a workplace agreement from their employer to support their enrolment.
Equipment
Learners must provide their own personal protection equipment to enable them to safely enter worksites under supervision. Mandatory PPE is a helmet, a high-visibility vest, capped boots, and safety glasses.
Learners must also have a laptop, desktop or tablet with a camera and microphone and broadband.
Year 1 (all courses are compulsory)
Regulatory Environment
Building Consent Authority Environment
Construction Technology
Building Code and Acceptable Solutions - Residential Buildings
Plan Processing - Residential Buildings
Residential Site Inspections
Year 2 (all courses are compulsory)
Building Code and Acceptable Solutions - Commercial Buildings
Plan Processing - Commercial Buildings
Statutory Powers, Offences and Enforcement
Statutory Requirements and Risk Management
Commercial Site inspections
Year 3
Inspection and Reporting (Compulsory)
Building Pathology (Compulsory)
Advanced Construction Systems (Compulsory)
Applied Business Management (Compulsory)
Choose one of: Contract Law OR Disputes Resolution Methodologies and Natural Justice
Choose one of: Construction Innovation OR Design Buildability and BIM
Choose one of: Construction Project (Case Study) OR Construction Project (Research)
Embark on a practical journey with your building surveying degree
Your journey towards a rewarding career in building surveying begins with a practical and advanced apprenticeship model. This innovative approach ensures a holistic education, seamlessly integrating theory with hands-on experience, preparing you for success in various sectors, including the private sector, local government, or central government in New Zealand.
Blending theory with practice
As you delve into your studies, you'll experience a unique blend of academic rigour and practical application. This program mirrors an advanced apprenticeship, providing you with the structure and experience needed to thrive in the dynamic field of building surveying.
Equipping you with essential skills
Throughout your education, you'll cultivate a diverse skill set essential for navigating the complexities of the industry. From theoretical knowledge to practical proficiency, you'll emerge equipped to tackle real-world challenges with confidence.
Tailoring your education to your ambitions
After completing core courses, you'll have the opportunity to tailor your curriculum to align with your interests and career aspirations. Choose from a wide range of elective courses and research topics, allowing you to carve out your unique path within the field.
Diverse career pathways await
Upon completing your degree, a myriad of career pathways awaits you. Whether you aspire to work in private firms as a building surveyor or contribute to governmental bodies such as the New Zealand Council or Central Government agencies, your comprehensive education will prepare you for success in any avenue you choose to pursue.
Exploring a comprehensive curriculum
Over the course of three years, you'll explore various levels of building surveying, each offering valuable insights into the industry's intricacies. From residential buildings to commercial structures, culminating in the degree year focused specifically on Building Surveying.
Essential compulsory courses
Delve into essential areas of study, including building surveying inspections, building defect assessment, building pathology, advanced construction systems, and applied management. These courses provide the foundational knowledge necessary for a thriving career in building surveying.
Customising your learning experience
Expand your horizons with elective courses tailored to your interests. From construction law to dispute resolution methodologies and natural justice, to cutting-edge topics like construction innovation and design buildability, you'll have the opportunity to delve deeper into areas that resonate with your passions.
Strengthening your degree through research
Enhance your academic journey by undertaking a research subject or project that aligns with your interests. This component not only adds depth to your degree but also allows you to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of knowledge within the field.
Embark on a journey of discovery and growth with your Bachelor of Building Surveying and Control degree, where theory meets practice, and endless opportunities await.
Graduates might choose to go on to study in the areas of Building Science, Construction Law, Management, Human Resources, or People Management.
You will attend in-class and online tutorials where you can ask your lecturers any questions about your assessments, study, and professional development.
Will this qualification be recognised in the building regulatory environment?
Yes, this qualification is NZQA-approved and recognised by New Zealand employers. You’ll also gain the skills needed to meet Regulation 18 of Building (Accreditation of Building Consent Authorities) Regulations 2006.
I have so many commitments. I am concerned I may not be able to complete the programme.
Please feel free to reach out to our Student Services team and find out how you will be supported during your learning.
What do I need to access the programme content?
You will need access to a laptop, desktop computer or tablet and a reliable internet connection to complete this programme.
Do I need to have any computer skills?
Yes, you will need basic computer skills to be successful in the programme.
Is what I am learning relevant to the building regulatory environment?
Yes, all the courses conform to best industry practice and adhere to current relevant New Zealand legislation, regulations and codes of practice.
Will I be able to cope with the academic requirements of the programme?
Our in-employment programme is built around what you already do in your workplace and is highly focussed on practical skills. Your lecturers and the Student Success team at Future Skills Academy are also available to offer any additional academic support you may need to succeed.
What is the application process?
You can find an easy step-by-step guide to applying and enrolling in a programme here
Will I be able to manage my time?
Feel free to reach out to your lecturer and our Student Support team for help setting up a study routine and maintaining a good study/life balance.
I am worried I may not be able to afford the fees.
Click here to find out more about some of the funding options you may be eligible for.
Student loans and allowances are available for learners meeting the StudyLink criteria. Find out if you are eligible by calling StudyLink on Freephone 0800 88 99 00 or visit www.studylink.govt.nz.
FEES FREE *
Click here to find out more about some of the funding options you may be eligible for.
Student loans and allowances are for domestic students only. For information about student loans and allowances please visit the StudyLink website. It is important to apply for your student loan/allowance at the same time as you apply for this programme, due to the length of time StudyLink take to process. Loan/allowance applications can be cancelled at any time if you decide to withdraw your programme application or if it is unsuccessful.