About the programme
The New Zealand Diploma in Construction (Level 6) with a strand in Quantity Surveying is an NZQF Level 6 programme of 240 credits at NZMA that, over 66 weeks, trains students to manage the costs of construction projects as quantity surveyors.
A quantity surveyor looks after the money side of a build: working out budgets, producing detailed cost estimates and keeping spending under control. The programme was designed around industry needs and is taught by tutors with construction experience. It suits both people building on existing skills and those starting a new career.
The first year is shared with the Construction Management strand: communication on a construction project, working within legislation and safety rules, selecting materials and finishes, structural principles and design, the regulation of commercial construction and contract management. The second year focuses on quantity surveying: managing variations and controlling expenditure during a project, estimating and measuring for small to large building works, assessing the feasibility of commercial designs, cost planning and feasibility studies, and solving everyday project problems.
Construction experience is not required, though NZMA strongly recommends some existing knowledge or skills. The programme is currently open only to international students and is taught on campus at Sylvia Park in Auckland to meet student visa rules. Students need a computer or laptop with a microphone and reliable internet. The qualification is on the government's Green List of skill-shortage occupations.
Entry requirements
- NCEA Level 2 including 12 literacy credits at Level 1 or above and 12 mathematics credits (excluding statistics) at Level 2 or above, or a construction qualification at NZQCF Level 3 or above, or equivalent skills and knowledge
- International students must hold equivalent academic qualifications
- IELTS Academic 6.0 with no band below 5.5, or an equivalent international English test
- A computer or laptop, a microphone and a reliable internet connection
What you study
- Communication on a construction project
- Legislation and safety in construction
- Materials and finishes
- Structural principles and design
- Commercial construction regulation and contract management
- Managing variations and controlling expenditure
- Estimating for small to large building works
- Measurement of building works
- Cost planning and feasibility
- Feasibility of commercial designs
Post-study work visa
According to NZMA, a 2-year visa is possible
Depends on the qualification, the length of study and other Immigration New Zealand requirements.
This description is based on the official programme page, checked on 09/09/2026. Ask an NIU adviser about fees and intake dates — the programme page on the NZMA website