Build better
The construction industry plays a crucial role in creating and managing our infrastructure—everything from houses and schools to hospitals and transport systems.
Construction professionals tackle big questions facing society—How can we provide high-quality housing for everybody? How can we build infrastructure in a safer and more sustainable way? How can we adapt to climate change?
If you want to gain in-depth knowledge and practical skills that prepare you for a rewarding career in the construction sector, the Bachelor of Construction is for you.
What you’ll learn
In the Bachelor of Construction, you’ll learn about how advanced technologies like AI, robotics, and big data are revolutionising the way construction projects are designed and executed.
During your studies, you’ll use advanced technology and tools related to augmented and virtual reality, the Internet of Things, and AI. You’ll learn how these technologies can enhance project planning and design, while improving efficiency and safety.
You’ll explore the latest advances in sustainability, circularity, zero waste, and health and safety. With this knowledge, you’ll be equipped to help make the built environment more resilient, liveable, and energy efficient.
Studying full time, you can complete the Bachelor of Construction in three years. The degree is made up of 360 points, and you’ll usually complete 120 points per year.
Year breakdown
First year
In your first year, four core courses will introduce you to the foundations of sustainability in the built environment, key technologies used in modern construction, and design communication.
You’ll also choose a major subject. As part of your major, you’ll be able to pick courses related to construction management, building performance, construction materials and methods, digital construction, health and safety, surveying, and sustainable construction.
Second year
In your second year, you’ll deepen your understanding of building materials and construction methods, explore structural systems, and develop skills in construction project administration and procurement.
You’ll deepen your understanding of building materials and construction methods, explore structural systems, and develop skills in construction project administration and procurement.
Third year
By your third year, you’ll be well prepared to manage complex construction projects. You’ll have a sound knowledge of topics like cladding, weathertightness, and health and safety practices. And you’ll be up to speed with innovative building technologies related to construction systems.
When you finish the degree, you’ll be ready to advance your career or pursue postgraduate study.
Build your degree
The Bachelor of Construction is incredibly flexible—both in the degree itself and in the way it overlaps with the related Bachelor of Building Science (BBSc).
You’ll need to take at least one major from the three majors offered in the BConst. On top of that, you can take a second major or one or two minors. Your second major can be another one from the BConst, or it can be one of the BBSc majors.
BConst majors
The BConst has three major subjects to choose from:
- Construction Health and Safety | Hauora me te Haumaru
- Construction Management | Whakahaere Hanganga
- Sustainable Construction | Hanganga Toitū.
Second major
If you want to add a second major, you can add another one of the BConst majors. Or you can choose from these five majors in the BBSc:
- Building Surveying | Aromātai Hanganga
- Built and Natural Heritage Conservation | Te Whāomotanga o te Hanga ā-Ringa me te Hanga ā-Taiao
- Project Management | Whakahaere Kaupapa
- Smart Cities and Digital Built Environments | Tāone Atamai me ngā Whaitua Hanga Matihiko
- Sustainable Engineering Systems | Pūnaha Pūhanga Toitū.
You can even choose a second, ‘outside’ major from another degree offered at this University—this may need to be approved.
Find out more about your study options, how long it takes to complete them, and what kind of other subjects you could major in. Our page on flexible study offers specifics on what subjects are available as a double major from an ‘outside’ degree.
Adding a minor—or two
All eight majors in the BConst and BBSc can also be taken as a minor—a minor has about half the course load of a major.
Instead of taking a second major in your BConst, you can complement your first major with two minors. Either way, you can focus on the two or three areas that are most relevant to you.
Degree support and advice
We can help you match your interests and career goals with the right course of study.
If you’re a new student, talk to a Future Student Adviser.
If you’re already studying with us, talk to Tītoko—Student Success.
How our degrees work
Flexible, or structured? Learn more about the different types of undergraduate degrees at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Get accepted into this degree
Entry requirements for domestic students
- Requirements for students who completed secondary school in:
If you live in New Zealand and are a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand or Australia, you're considered a domestic student.
Some citizens of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau may automatically hold New Zealand citizenship.
Diplomatic residents living in New Zealand are also regarded as domestic students.
To be accepted into this qualification, you need:
A New Zealand university entrance qualification or equivalent.
Entry for domestic students
- Your acceptance to this programme is based on your previous qualifications or experience.
- If you’re not sure what admission type you are, you can use our tool to check.
Degree requirements
Excerpt from the regulations for the BConst
For this degree, you’ll need to complete 360 points, including:
- At least 180 points from courses above 100-level, of which at least 120 points are from courses in the Bachelor of Construction (BConst), Bachelor of Building Science (BBSc), or Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS)
- At least 75 points from 300-level courses in the BConst or BBSc
At 100-level:
- Introduction to Construction / Te Hanganga - He tīmatanga (CONM 111)
- Digital Tools for Construction / Taputapu Matihiko mō te Hanganga (CONM 122)
- Introduction to Built Environment Technology / He Tīmatanga Kōrero mō Ngā Whare Hangahanga (SARC 121)
- Introduction to Sustainability in the Designed Environment / He Timatanga Kōrero mō Te Whakaora i Te Taiao Hangahanga (SARC 131)
At 200-level:
- Structural Systems for Building Science / Te Whakamahinga o nga Rauemi mo Hanga putaiao (BILD 222)
- Construction Project Administration and Procurement / Hinonga Hanganga ā-Whakahaerenga, ā-Whiwhinga (CONM 211)
- Building Materials and Construction / Te Waihanga me ngā Momo Rauemi (SARC 221)
At 300-level:
- Construction / Te Mahi Waihanga (SARC 321)
- Introduction to Practice and Management / He Tīmatanga Kōrero mō Te Mahi me Te Whakahaere (SARC 362)
You’ll also need to meet the requirements for at least one major subject.
Majors in the Bachelor of Construction
Majors are the subjects you focus your degree on.
Explore more degree options by adding an optional second major or minor. How our flexible degrees work.
Major subjects and requirements
Explore your major options below.
BConst subjects
Construction Health & Safety
Construction Management
Sustainable Construction
No matching majors found.
Minor requirements
Add another dimension to your degree by choosing an optional minor. Most major BSc subjects are available as minors.
Some subjects are only available as minors. While most minors require 60 points at 200- and 300-level, there are a few minors with specific requirements.
Minor subjects and requirements
Start planning your study Start planning your study
Use the tiles to find out how you could include the selected minor in your degree. Not all major and minor combinations are available, so talk to us before you lock down your plan of study.
BConst minor subjects
Building Surveying
Built and Natural Heritage Conservation
Construction Health & Safety
Construction Management
Project Management
Smart Cities and Digital Built Environments
Sustainable Construction
Sustainable Engineering System
No matching minors found.
Two related degrees
We offer two closely related degrees: the Bachelor of Building Science (BBSc) and Bachelor of Construction (BConst). Which one is right for you?
If you want to focus on the science and technology of buildings—and the mechanics behind how buildings work and perform—then the BBSc will be a good match for you.
If you want to focus more on managing construction projects from start to finish—including safety, planning, and sustainability—then the BConst will be a better fit for you.
Future careers
The Bachelor of Construction will set you up for a wide range of roles in the construction industry, depending on your choice of major.
More career information
Find out more about careers in construction.
The government careers website, Tahatū, offers more information about jobs, salaries, and current opportunities.
Scholarships
You may be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies.
We have first-year and school-leaver scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.
We encourage you to apply. It's a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.
Scholarships for Architecture
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Studio Pacific Architecture wish to support a student undertaking their first year of study at Wellington Faculty of Architecture and Design.
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The fund, which was established at the time of the renovation of the C3 lecture theatre, is to assist a second-year student from any faculty in their studies at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington
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Applicants must be female, New Zealand or Canadian citizens studying full time at 300 level BSc (Hons) and Master's by Coursework in any area of Science, including Architecture and Design at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Scholarships for international students
We are currently offering a NZ$15,000 VUW Undergraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Bachelor’s degree.
Your scholarship will be processed automatically when your programme application is accepted, and the amount will be deducted from your tuition fees.
We also have specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas.
Scholarships for Architecture
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This scholarship is to assist students in the last year of their first Bachelors degree at Victoria University of Wellington. The scholarship fund will be awarded equally between male and female students.
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Applicants must be female, New Zealand or Canadian citizens studying full time at 300 level BSc (Hons) and Master's by Coursework in any area of Science, including Architecture and Design at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Postgraduate study
If you complete the Bachelor of Construction and want to continue your studies at postgraduate level, we offer a range of options.
You’ll join a talented team of internationally recognised researchers doing innovative work.
Accommodation
Live in accommodation close to campus at one of our:
- catered halls of residence
- self-catered apartments or flats
- self-catered studios.
We provide care and support across our halls and flatting communities.
Get help to manage your finances
We can help you:
- budget your money
- manage your student loan or allowance
- work out your accommodation payment schedule.
And if you're ever having trouble with money, talk with us. You could be eligible for government or community support, and we have a hardship fund for financial emergencies.
Apply for a New Zealand study visa
You’ll need to apply for a study visa if you plan to study with us as an international student.
You should apply for your visa after you’ve received your Offer of Place, and before you come to New Zealand.
Wellington Global Exchange
If you're a current student at Victoria University of Wellington, you can complete part of your degree overseas. Choose from our 140 partner universities worldwide.
Study Abroad and Exchange Programme
If you're an overseas student, you can spend a trimester or a year at Victoria University of Wellington. You'll earn credits at your home university while you study here.