Upskill to build a sustainable future

Ensure safe, durable, and compliant buildings that stand the test of time.

Get a comprehensive understanding of building codes, regulations, and standards in Aotearoa New Zealand. Evaluate and implement sustainable building practices in building design, construction, and operation.

Learn how to identify and assess common building defects and propose appropriate remedial solutions.

Choose your study path

As a postgraduate student you can study Building Surveying in either a Graduate Certificate or a Graduate Diploma of Construction and Building Science. The courses you study will be at 100 to 300 level.

Pathways to postgraduate study

If your Bachelor’s degree is in a different field, a graduate certificate or diploma lets you catch up on the basics of a new subject. This can set you up for further study in that subject at Master’s level.

Qualification 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 through our enquiry form.

If you’re already studying with us, talk to Tītoko—Student Success.

For the research portion of your study, you’ll need a supervisor to help guide your research. Your programme coordinator will work with you to find the right person.

Two students with laptops are being helped by a third person

Study options

Find out how you can study Building Surveying as a postgraduate student at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.

Tohu Tiwhikete, Pūtaiao Hanga Whare

Graduate Certificate in Construction and Building Science—GCertCBSc

POSTGRADUATEGRADUATE CERTIFICATE

Shape the future of our built environment. Study construction, sustainability, and building technology to design smarter, healthier, and more resilient spaces.

Duration
0.5 Year
Location
Te Aro campus, Wellington
Level of study
Postgraduate
Points
60
Workload
Full or part-time
Type
Coursework · Daytime
2027 – Trimester 1
Apply by
14 Feb 2027
Start study
21 Feb 2027
2027 – Trimester 2
Apply by
15 Jun 2027
Start study
4 Jul 2027
Tohu, Pūtaiao Hanga Whare

Graduate Diploma in Construction and Building Science—GDipCBSc

POSTGRADUATEGRADUATE DIPLOMA

Gain the knowledge and practical skills that will prepare you for a successful career in the construction industry. 

Duration
1 Year
Location
Te Aro campus, Wellington
Level of study
Postgraduate
Points
120
Workload
Full or part-time
Type
Coursework · Daytime
2027 – Trimester 1
Apply by
14 Feb 2027
Start study
21 Feb 2027

Why Wellington

Wellington gives you direct access to construction firms, government agencies, and research institutes—with opportunities for internships, placements, and collaborative research.

The city’s unique geography and rich cultural heritage make it an exciting place to study and apply your construction knowledge. 

Interior of a large timber-framed building

Resources and facilities

You’ll have access to workspaces and technologies at the School of Architecture. These include model-making facilities, and support for using ArcGIS and graphic design software. 

Future careers

Careers in construction now require construction expertise combined with digital innovation, sustainability leadership, and strategic management.

Studying Building Surveying opens up opportunities in many organisations:

  • construction companies
  • consultancies
  • property developers
  • government agencies
  • engineering firms
  •  design and delivery firms.

More career information

Find out more about careers in this area.

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 postgraduate and doctoral 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 and Building Science

There could be a scholarship for your qualification, subject area, background, or situation.

Scholarships for international students

We are currently offering a NZ$10,000 VUW Postgraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Master’s degree or Postgraduate Diploma programme.

Your scholarship will be processed automatically when your programme application is accepted, and the amount will be deducted from your tuition fees.

Other scholarships

We also have postgraduate and doctoral 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 and Building Science

There could be a scholarship for your qualification, subject area, background, or situation.

Join our postgraduate community

The Postgraduate Students’ Association provides a voice for you on campus and information on studying at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.

Postgraduate Students’ Association

MAI ki Pōneke

MAI ki Pōneke are part of an international network of Māori and Indigenous postgraduate students. They provide advice, support, and information to Indigenous postgraduate students of all levels, as well as those thinking about enrolling.

Find out more about MAI ki Pōneke

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.

If you’re facing financial difficulties, we can help you apply for the Hardship Fund.

You may be eligible for government or community support, too.

Two smiling people facing each other across a table

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.

Discover your career pathway with Tahatū