To qualify as a quantity surveyor, you can gain a New Zealand Diploma in Construction (QS), Bachelor's Degree in Quantity Surveying or Construction Economics, Postgraduate, Graduate or Masters in QS.
You can take on entry-level roles with either kind of
qualification. If you get a New Zealand Diploma, you can go on to complete the degree programme, and you'll probably be able to cross-credit some of your papers.
With a Bachelor's degree you can go on to study for a
Postgraduate Diploma or a Masters.
You can study as you begin your career, or retrain for a new
career. You can study part- or full-time, and can study while gaining
experience in the construction industry.
While studying you can become a Student member of NZIQS.
What you should study before you enrol
If you're at secondary school, we recommend you study
to Year 13 level in at least one maths and one science subject. Other useful subjects include English, Computing and Economics. Get information about entrance requirements from Individual education providers.
New Zealand Diploma in Construction (QS)
The New Zealand Diploma in Construction (With
QS strand) is equivalent to 2 years full-time study at NZQA Level 6. You can also study part-time at any of the education providers, and study via distance learning at the Open Polytechnic.
Most providers will allow for Recognition of Prior Learning
if you have extensive knowledge and skills from practical experience.
If you have completed the NZ Diploma and have at least 1 year of QS experience in NZ, you can apply to be
an Affiliate member of NZIQS.
Student Awards
The NZIQS NZ Diploma
Student Award is awarded to a 2nd year student member at each of the tertiary providers offering the NZ Diploma in Construction (QS). The award is worth $250 and a certificate. See list previous award winners
Quantity Surveying Degree
There are six Bachelor degrees offered in New Zealand that
are accredited by NZIQS.
Once you have completed a NZ QS Degree, you can apply to be an Affiliate Member of NZIQS.
Where you can study in New Zealand
NZIQS only accredits the courses listed below for membership qualification.
NZIQS does not endorse any online estimating or QS course, other than the AIQS Online Academy
Postgraduate Diploma in Construction (QS) - Massey University (Albany)
The Postgraduate Diploma in Construction equips graduates for senior positions in the industry once they've had the relevant experience. Or they can continue to the Masters provided they meet the required academic performance.
The Postgraduate Diploma in Construction (QS) from Massey University is accredited by NZIQS and meets the membership criteria for a Graduate member.
Master of Construction (QS) – Massey University (Albany)
Graduates of the Master of Construction (Quantity Surveying) programme will gain advanced knowledge in quantity surveying and commercial and contractual management of construction projects, construction law, and research. Theoretical principles and methodologies are interlaced with hands-on practice. You will be able to apply your knowledge to the contractual and financial management of large-scale and complex building and construction projects.
The Master of Construction (QS) from Massey University is accredited by NZIQS and meets the membership criteria for a Graduate member.
Graduate Diploma in Quantity Surveying – Ara Institute of Canterbury, Christchurch
The Graduate Diploma in Quantity Surveying is a practical option for degree-qualified construction industry professionals (eg architectural technologists and civil engineers) who wish to change pathway within the construction industry.
The Graduate Diploma QS from Ara is accredited by NZIQS and meets the membership criteria for a Graduate member.
Graduate Diploma in Construction (Quantity Surveying) – Southern Institute of Technology, Invercargill
The Graduate Diploma in Construction is aimed at construction professionals who want to upgrade their qualifications and improve their knowledge and skill to advance their careers.
Students will learn about building modelling, contracts and management, quality management, sustainable technology and construction methodologies and specialise in Construction Management, Project Management or Quantity Surveying.
The Graduate Diploma in Construction (Quantity Surveying) from SIT is accredited by NZIQS and meets the membership criteria for a Graduate member.
Get more information
Find out more about quantity surveying as a career:
CareersNZ - Information on careers
MBIE -
Occupation Outlook for Quantity Surveyors
Next Steps magazine