Why Graduate Diploma in Building Surveying?
Gain an accredited degree in building surveying in only one year of full-time study.
Building surveying is a dynamic and rewarding profession that puts you at the heart of Australia’s construction industry. Building surveyors ensure buildings are safe, compliant and built to the highest standards, protecting communities and guiding the future of our cities.
You’ll graduate equipped with the practical skills to advance in your current role or use this program as a pathway to further education.
Overview
Equip yourself for a responsible leadership role in building surveying or establish a solid foundation for further study. Develop a strong understanding of the Australian legal system and key principles of construction law, including the essential legal requirements. Learn how to assess and analyse building structures and material behaviour, apply fire engineering techniques, and manage assets within buildings and organisations.
This qualification meets the educational criteria for building surveyor accreditation from the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors.
The Graduate Diploma in Building Surveying is offered as part of a suite of two programs (graduate certificate and graduate diploma). If you decide to exit after completing the first four courses, you will have completed the Graduate Certificate in Building Surveying. You will need to complete the graduate diploma to register as a professional Level 1 Building Surveyor.
Key features
Acquire the skills to practise as a professional building surveyor in Australia. - Build a comprehensive understanding of the construction sector and its stakeholders.
- Focus on construction methods, technology, legal frameworks and regulatory codes.
- Learn from world-class industry leaders and academics.
- Enjoy the convenience of fully online, flexible study options.
- Meet the requirements to qualify as a professional building surveyor by the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors (AIBS).
What you'll learn
Gain a strong understanding of the construction industry and its key stakeholders over one year of full-time study (or part-time equivalent). Learn the scientific foundations of building surveying and apply these to the design and operation of building developments.
Focus on the full building lifecycle, covering asset management and ongoing maintenance while uncovering Australia’s legal system and the fundamental principles of construction law. Discover the typical legal challenges that are encountered in construction projects and how to remediate them. You’ll also explore fire technology and safety considerations in accordance with the National Construction Code.
You’ll complete the following eight courses:
- The constructed environment
- Introduction to construction law
- Building structures and materials
- Building surveying
- Fire technology
- Development regulation
- Asset management and building pathology
- Advanced building surveying.
You will also gain the necessary research skills to stay current with evolving construction law, as well as the ability to write effectively on legal issues in the field.
What courses you'll study
Complete 48 units comprising:
- 48 units for all Core courses
Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Development Regulation
|
Course code
BLDG3017
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Fire Technology (UniSA)
|
Course code
BLDG3018
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Introduction to Construction Law
|
Course code
BLDG5008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
The Constructed Environment
|
Course code
BLDG5009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Building Structures and Materials
|
Course code
BLDG5017
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Asset Management and Building Pathology
|
Course code
BLDG5021
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Building Surveying (UniSA)
|
Course code
BLDG5022
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Building Surveying (UniSA)
|
Course code
ENGC1007
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
 |
Course name
Development Regulation
|
Course code
BLDG3017
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Introduction to Construction Law
|
Course code
BLDG5008
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Asset Management and Building Pathology
|
Course code
BLDG5021
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Building Surveying (UniSA)
|
Course code
BLDG5022
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Fire Technology (UniSA)
|
Course code
BLDG3018
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
The Constructed Environment
|
Course code
BLDG5009
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Building Structures and Materials
|
Course code
BLDG5017
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced Building Surveying (UniSA)
|
Course code
ENGC1007
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
A career in building surveying offers diverse opportunities across residential, commercial and industrial projects, with the authority to make critical decisions that impact public safety and building quality. Whether you choose to work independently or with local councils, building surveying is your path to a respected, influential role in creating sustainable, safe and innovative built environments.
You might perform on-site inspections during construction to ensure adherence to building plans, standards and legal requirements. You might analyse the structural integrity and stability of buildings. Perhaps you’ll assesses properties for fire risks to protect occupants and assets.
Careers include the following:
- Building surveyor
- Building certifier.
Industry trends
Since 2013, the Australian Government’s $200 billion infrastructure investment has powered over 35,000 construction projects, with an exciting $17.9 billion boost fuelling even more transformative civil developments ahead (Australian Government Budget, 2022). This infrastructure investment significantly benefits buildings surveyors by driving demand for their expertise and creating opportunities for career growth in the booming construction industry.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
