Build a sustainable future
Ensure safe, durable, and compliant buildings that stand the test of time.
Through a major in Building Surveying, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of building codes, regulations, and standards in Aotearoa New Zealand.
What you’ll learn
You’ll learn how to identify and assess common building defects and propose appropriate remedial solutions. And you’ll develop the skills to evaluate and implement durable building practices in building design, construction, and operation.
Over three years, the Building Surveying major includes these courses:
First year:
Second year:
- Structural Systems for Building Science (BILD 222)
- Building Materials and Construction (SARC 221)
- Fire Safety Design (SARC 224)
Third year:
Choose your study path
You can study Building Surveying in one of two degrees: the Bachelor of Building Science (BBSc) or the Bachelor of Construction (BConst).
- In the BBSc, you can take this subject as your first or second major. You can also take it as a minor subject.
- In the BConst, you can take Building Surveying as a second major, along with one of the majors from the BConst.
Over the three years of your Bachelor’s degree, you’ll balance core courses with specialised courses in Building Surveying.
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.
Conjoint degrees
You may be able to do a conjoint degree—combining your BBSc or BConst with another degree. This will take less time than completing two degrees separately. For instance, you might combine your BBSc with the Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS).
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.
Study options
Find out how you can study Building Surveying at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Future careers
A major in Building Surveying could lead to the following jobs:
- building code consultant
- building inspector
- building surveyor
- compliance officer.
More career information
Find out more about careers in building science.
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.
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.
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 offer specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas.
Scholarships for architecture
There could be a scholarship for your qualification, subject area, background, or situation.
Further study
After completing a Bachelor’s degree majoring in Building Surveying, you can continue your studies at a more advanced level through a Master of Building Science or Master of Construction.
Find out more about our postgraduate study options at the School of Architecture:
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.
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.