Construction Economics

The course components address a range of topics including building plans and processes, building structures and soil mechanics, construction techniques, contract administration, finance and cost planning, project management, refurbishment and retrofitting, and risks. It also contains a strong sustainability theme which equips graduates with skills that are highly sought after in the construction environment.

Quantity Surveyors (or Construction economists) work on major constructions projects varying from large residential or office blocks, schools, hospitals, factories to bridges, railways and mining.

A Quantity Surveyor, also known as a Construction Economist, or Cost Manager, is part of a team of professional advisers to the construction industry that advises on estimates and monitor construction costs, which are generally considered to fall within the management disciplines and financial administration of construction projects through their life cycle. In the initial construction phase, quantity surveyors advise on the most economical way of achieving their construction requirements. You will use techniques such as cost planning, estimating, cost analysis, cost-in-use studies and value management to establish a project budget.

You will work alongside other construction industry professionals including: Architects, Financiers, Engineers, Contractors, Suppliers, Project Owners, Accountants, Insurance Underwriters, Solicitors and Courts and with all levels of Government authorities.

In order to work in this profession you must have an analytical mind, strong attention to detail and be prepared to work to very rigid time schedules. This is because decisions made involve large sums of money is spent based on your work.

This course can be studied at a Bachelor or Masters level. The Masters course is delivered in as quick as 16 months at certain universities around Australia.  The Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (AIQS) is nominated by the Minister for Immigration and Border Protection as the relevant assessing authority for the occupation of Quantity Surveying ANZSCO 233213. According to the Skilled Migration Assessment Policy Guidelines, obtaining accredited course completion allows you to obtain a full skills assessment without requiring additional work experience. This is done through the accredited pathway program.

Why is this important? Because Quantity Surveyor is listed on the Medium to Long Term Skilled Shortage List (MLTSSL)

Therefore because the occupation is on the MLTSSL, and you can obtain a skills assessment through the accredited pathway when you finish the course, and then potentially apply for general skilled migration visas such as:

• Skilled Independent (Subclass 189)
• State Sponsored (Subclass 190)

Please note in order to apply for general skilled migration visas, applicants are required to meet the other requirements of general skilled migration.