Graduate Diploma in Building Surveying

Prepare yourself for a responsible leadership role in the field of building surveying or lay the foundations for future study.

You will gain a strong understanding of the construction industry and its key stakeholders.

Your studies will focus on building processes and technology, construction law, and building regulations and codes.

This qualification fulfils the educational requirements for building surveyor accreditation by the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors.

This qualification is available online only.

The graduate diploma is offered as part of a suite of two programs (graduate certificate and graduate diploma).

Each qualification extends to the next.

If you decide to exit having completed the first four courses, you will receive the Graduate Certificate in Building Surveying.

Entry requirements

You will gain a strong understanding of the construction industry and its key stakeholders. During your studies you will focus on:

• the complete building lifecycle, including building and asset management and maintenance
• the Australian legal system and the key principles of construction law
• common legal issues experienced on construction projects and the paths available for resolution
• fire engineering
• the scientific principles of building surveying in the design and operation of class two to nine building developments

You will also develop the skills to research and remain up-to-date with developments in construction law throughout your career, and the ability to write on construction law issues.

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects and contribute to online discussion forums. So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12 – 26 hours of study when at university and 14 – 28 hours of independent study per week.

Your studies at UniSA will incorporate both practical, professionally-focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:

This qualification has been developed by academics and researchers with strong industry associations, in consultation with our industry partners. The skills and knowledge you develop will have immediate practical application to your everyday working life.

This degree is offered online. This means that you:

• will study online, including accessing access videos and course resources

Your career

Careers to consider:

• building surveyor: ensuring buildings are safe to occupy, energy efficient, accessible and meet all legal requirements as a statutory responsibility; assessing, certifying and inspecting building works; working in design, fire safety, energy efficiency and access solutions; supporting the legal process as educators and expert witnesses
• estimator: compiling cost estimates based on variables such as labour, materials and equipment; working out how much a project is likely to cost and creating budgets; analysing different quotes from sub-contractors and suppliers
• construction planner: developing time plans on construction projects so the project is completed safely, on time and within budget; thinking critically; working with managers and engineers to discuss progress and address issues that arise; organising the stages of construction development

Applying to study with us:

• go to the top of this page and make note of the SATAC code, then click Apply
• you will be redirected through to the SATAC website to continue your application

Our campuses have fantastic facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, tech zones, and areas that simulate real work environments. You’ll also find student gyms and campus sport activities to keep you active. We also offer flexible study options, with online resources available for accessing lecture recordings, virtual classrooms, library resources and learning support.

Adelaide has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation or private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages for plenty of options. If you need somewhere to live, our new student accommodation by urbanest is on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, a perfect location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.

Our student support services can make your life at university easier. We provide a full range of support services including academic and personal counselling. You can also access a range of services through our students association, USASA. When you become a UniSA student you can contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and any other questions you might have.

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with advanced facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, laboratories, and areas that simulate real work environments.