Otago Polytechnic is a government-accredited tertiary education provider in Dunedin, New Zealand, with an additional Auckland International Campus for international student delivery. The Polytechnic focuses on industry-aligned, practical and work-ready education, offering pathways into professional careers globally. Students benefit from strong academic support and real-world learning opportunities.

 

Why Study Bachelor of Construction (Quantity Surveying)?

The Bachelor of Construction (Quantity Surveying) prepares you for a career in the construction industry with a focus on cost control, project planning, contracts and financial management of construction projects. This programme builds both technical construction knowledge and professional commercial skills that are in demand internationally — whether you aim to work on residential builds, commercial projects, infrastructure or property development.

Key reasons to choose this degree:

• Work-ready skills for roles such as Quantity Surveyor, Construction Manager, Estimator or Contract Administrator.
• Combines management, law, measurement, estimating and project planning.
• Accredited with professional bodies like the New Zealand Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NZIQS).
• Offers career flexibility including leadership, consulting and contracting roles.

 

Programme Structure & Subjects

The degree is delivered across three academic years, progressively building your construction and management expertise:

Year 1 – Foundation Construction Knowledge

• Introduction to Construction Studies

• Materials & Structural Principles

• Law & Construction Contracts

• Construction 1 (Residential)

• Services

• Construction 2 (Commercial)

• Environment

• Introduction to Measurement & Estimation

Year 2 – Quantity Surveying Core Skills

• Measurement

• Estimation

• Programming

• Measurement 2

• Financial Administration

• Procurement

• Cost Planning

• Regional Project Quantity Surveying

Year 3 – Advanced Industry Skills

• People Management

• Project Risk Management

• Property Investment & Development

• Construction Business Management

• Value Management & BIM

• Claims Management

• Capstone Research Project (30 credits) — in-depth research on a contemporary industry topic.

 

Disciplines & Specialisations

While the primary focus is Quantity Surveying, the degree also gives exposure to:

• Construction Business Management
• Project Risk & People Management
• Building Information Modelling (BIM)
• Property Investment & Development
• Claims Management

 

Highlights & Key Features

• Industry-oriented skill set: Employers value the blend of cost, contract and project management skills.
• Professional accreditation: Eligible for membership with the New Zealand Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NZIQS) upon graduation.
• Practical experience: Project work, case studies and real industry applications build employability.
• Flexible part-time study: Allows students to study while working or h balancing other commitments.

 

Career Outcomes

Graduates are prepared for a variety of professional roles including:

• Quantity Surveyor
• Estimator
• Contract Administrator
• Construction Project Manager
• Site Manager
• Cost Planner / Commercial Manager

 

Visa Requirements (International Students)

International applicants planning to study full-time must apply for a New Zealand Student Visa. Requirements generally include:

• An official Offer of Place from Otago Polytechnic
• Proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses
• Evidence of English proficiency (as per entry criteria)
• Valid passport
• Health/medical insurance