Bachelor of Construction (Quantity Surveying)
Build a career managing costs and value on real construction projects
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 highlights
Industry-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
Fees for 2026
University 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/
Still 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?
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
- 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.
Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic
- 5.5 Listening
- 5.5 Reading
- 5.5 Writing
- 5.5 Speaking
Applicants who meet the entry requirements will be accepted into the programme in the order that applications are received.
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
Career opportunities for graduates include:
- Quantity surveyor
- Registered quantity surveyor (with experience)
- Quantity surveying consultant
- Procurement manager
- Construction cost manager
- Quantity surveying academic
Work environments include consultancies, contracting firms, and government organisations.
Study pathways
Advancement opportunities include:
- Progress to registered QS status (NZIQS pathway)
- Move into senior cost management or commercial leadership roles
- Pursue postgraduate study
Professional membership
This programme is fully accredited by the NZIQS. Graduates of this programme may be eligible to become a NZIQS member.
Graduate capabilities
As a graduate you’ll be able to:
- Produce cost plans, estimates and budgets
- Measure and price work accurately
- Support procurement and contract administration
- Track costs, report clearly and advise stakeholders
- Work safely, ethically and collaboratively
Bachelor of Construction (Quantity Surveying)
Build a career managing costs and value on real construction projects
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Degree |
| Code | CH4060 |
| Next starts | July 2026 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| Credits | 360 |
| Level | 7 |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| Available Part time | Yes |
| Reference | CH4060-QNTY |
Fees for 2026
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreCredit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 425 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 357 KB
Area of Interest
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