Lead the transition to sustainable construction
Construction has a big impact on the planet, on people, and on the economy—and the industry needs professionals who can balance all three. This major teaches you how to plan and lead projects that cut carbon emissions, reduce waste, and create buildings that are healthier to live and work in.
You’ll learn how sustainability applies at every stage of construction—from choosing materials and sourcing them responsibly, right through to delivering the finished project and making sure it performs well over time.
When you graduate, you’ll be ready to help lead the change in one of the world’s most important industries.
What you’ll learn
Over three years, the Sustainable Construction major includes these courses:
First year:
- Creative Coding and AI I (DSDN 142)
- Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AIML 131)
- Programming for the Natural and Social Sciences (COMP 132)
Second year:
Third year:
Choose your study path
You can study Sustainable Construction in one of two degrees: the Bachelor of Construction (BConst) or the Bachelor of Building Science (BBSc).
- In the BConst, you can take this subject as your first or second major. You can also take it as a minor subject.
- In the BBSc, you can take Sustainable Construction as a second major, along with one of the majors from the BBSc.
Over the three years of your Bachelor’s degree, you’ll balance core courses with specialised courses in Sustainable Construction.
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 BConst or BBSc with another degree. This will take less time than completing two degrees separately. For instance, you might combine your BConst 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 Sustainable Construction at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Future careers
A major in Sustainable Construction could lead to the following jobs:
- circular economy specialist
- environmental compliance officer
- materials specialist
- sustainability consultant
- waste management coordinator.
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.
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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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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.
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
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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.
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.