What you will learn
Gain the knowledge, practical skills, and industry insight to launch your career in construction and develop into a successful Quantity Surveyor in today's dynamic built environment. This qualification prepares you to support the planning, procurement, cost management, and delivery of construction projects while applying New Zealand legislation, standards, and industry best practice.
You will learn to:
- Understand building construction methods, materials, and construction processes.
- Prepare preliminary cost plans, estimates, and construction budgets.
- Measure quantities from construction drawings using industry-standard methods.
- Prepare and price competitive tender submissions for construction projects.
- Administer construction contracts throughout the project lifecycle.
- Plan and manage construction procurement processes to support successful project delivery.
- Assess progress payments, variations, and final accounts.
- Apply digital measurement, estimating, and cost management software used by the construction industry.
- Communicate effectively with clients, consultants, contractors, and other project stakeholders.
- Apply professional, ethical, and commercial principles to support successful construction projects.
Career options
Whether you want to become a construction manager, quantity surveyor, or already work in the field, this diploma recognises and enhances your expertise. An entry-level cadet or graduate quantity surveyor role would normally progress to the following roles:
- Professional quantity surveyor
- Contractor quantity surveyor
- Subcontractor quantity surveyor
- Construction/Project/Commercial manager
- Contract administrator
- Estimator
Entry requirements
Under 20 years
NCEA Level 2 including 12 credits in mathematics (excluding statistics) and a minimum of 12 literacy credits at NCEA Level 1;
OR
A relevant qualification at NZQF Level 4 or above;
OR
A recognised equivalent.
20+ years
If you’re 20 years or over, you may qualify for special admission on this programme. Contact us if you don’t meet the Under 20 entry criteria.
Special entry
Special entry may be granted by the Head of School responsible for the programme to an applicant who does not meet all entry requirements, where the Head of School is satisfied the applicant is capable of undertaking the programme of study.
International students
Minimum IELTS (academic) score of 6 with no band score lower than 5.5, or equivalent.
Find your country's equivalent academic entry requirements here.
*For fee exclusions, please see our terms and conditions. International ākonga study grants are available. Contact: international@wandw.ac.nz for eligibility details.
Whitireia and WelTec is a business division of the New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (NZIST).
Last updated: 13/7/2026
