Top 9 Quantity Surveying (BSc) Courses In South Africa

In South Africa, several universities offer a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Quantity Surveying. Here’s an overview of some of these programs along with general admission requirements:

Quantity Surveying (BSc) Courses In South Africa

1. University of Pretoria (UP) – BSc Quantity Surveying

Course Overview: This program provides students with the skills to manage costs in construction projects, from the initial design to completion. It covers construction economics, building materials, and project management.
Admission Requirements:
- Matriculation Certificate with University Admission (NSC).
- Minimum APS (Admission Point Score) of 30-34.
- English: Level 5 (60-69%).
- Mathematics: Level 5 (60-69%).
- Physical Science: Level 4 (50-59%).

2. University of Cape Town (UCT) – BSc in Construction Studies (Quantity Surveying stream)

Course Overview: UCT’s program combines construction and project management with quantity surveying. It includes subjects such as building economics, construction law, and contract management.
Admission Requirements:
- Minimum APS: Based on points system (generally around 36-39 points).
- English: Level 4 (50-59%).
- Mathematics: Level 5 (60-69%).
- Physical Science is preferred but not always mandatory.

3. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) – BSc in Quantity Surveying

Course Overview: This degree focuses on developing expertise in construction cost management, contract law, and project control. It provides technical and professional skills required for quantity surveying in South Africa.
Admission Requirements:
- APS of at least 35.
- Mathematics: Minimum of 60%.
- English: Minimum of 60%.
- Physical Science is advantageous but not always required.

4. Nelson Mandela University (NMU) – BSc Quantity Surveying

Course Overview: NMU offers a strong foundation in quantity surveying with practical training and industry exposure, preparing graduates for construction project cost control.
Admission Requirements:
- APS: Minimum of 32 points.
- Mathematics: Minimum 60%.
- English: Minimum 50%.
- Physical Science: Not strictly required but preferred.

5. University of the Free State (UFS) – BSc Quantity Surveying

Course Overview: UFS provides a comprehensive quantity surveying program that includes construction management, building contracts, and cost estimation.
Admission Requirements:
- APS: Minimum of 30 points.
- Mathematics: Level 5 (60%).
- English: Level 5 (60%).
- Physical Science is advantageous.

6. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) – BSc in Quantity Surveying

Course Overview: CPUT offers a career-focused degree in Quantity Surveying. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience to equip students with the skills required in cost management, quantity surveying, and project management within the construction industry.
Admission Requirements:
- APS: Minimum of 30 points.
- Mathematics: Level 4 (50-59%).
- English: Level 4 (50-59%).
- Physical Science: Level 3 (40-49%) is beneficial but not always required.

7. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) – BSc in Quantity Surveying

Course Overview: TUT’s BSc in Quantity Surveying is designed to provide students with an understanding of construction project financial management and cost estimation. The program emphasizes practical training through internships and work placements.
Admission Requirements:
- APS: Minimum of 28 points.
- Mathematics: Minimum 50%.
- English: Minimum 50%.
- Physical Science: An advantage but not mandatory.

8. Durban University of Technology (DUT) – Bachelor of the Built Environment in Quantity Surveying

Course Overview: DUT offers a Bachelor’s degree focused on the built environment, which includes the study of quantity surveying and construction economics. The program emphasizes sustainable construction practices and cost management.
Admission Requirements:
- APS: Minimum of 28 points.
- Mathematics: Level 4 (50-59%).
- English: Level 4 (50-59%).
- Physical Science: Preferred but not essential.

9. Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) – Bachelor of Quantity Surveying

Course Overview: This program provides students with an in-depth knowledge of quantity surveying, building services, and construction project management. It includes both academic learning and practical experience in real-world projects.
Admission Requirements:
- APS: Minimum of 30 points.
- Mathematics: Level 4 (50-59%).
- English: Level 4 (50-59%).
- Physical Science: An advantage

Requirements Of Quantity Surveying (BSc) Courses In South Africa

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Fees Of Quantity Surveying (BSc) Courses In South Africa

The fees for Quantity Surveying (BSc) courses in South Africa can vary significantly depending on the institution. Here are approximate tuition fees for some top universities offering BSc in Quantity Surveying in South Africa (2024 estimates):

University of Pretoria (UP):
Fees: Around ZAR 50,000 to ZAR 65,000 per year.
University of Cape Town (UCT):
Fees: ZAR 60,000 to ZAR 75,000 per year.
University of the Witwatersrand (Wits):
Fees: ZAR 50,000 to ZAR 65,000 per year.
Nelson Mandela University (NMU):
Fees: ZAR 45,000 to ZAR 60,000 per year.
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN):
Fees: ZAR 50,000 to ZAR 70,000 per year.
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT):
Fees: ZAR 35,000 to ZAR 50,000 per year.

These are estimated fees for domestic students. International students often have to pay additional fees, such as international levies, which can increase the total cost. For exact figures and details on any additional costs, it’s recommended to contact the universities directly or check their official websites

Career Opportunities Of Quantity Surveying (BSc) Courses In South Africa

A BSc in Quantity Surveying is a valuable qualification in South Africa, offering a range of career opportunities due to the country’s ongoing development in the construction, infrastructure, and property sectors. Here are some key career paths and opportunities available to Quantity Surveying graduates:

1. Quantity Surveyor

Job Role: Managing project costs, ensuring that projects are completed within budget, and handling contracts and procurement.
Industry: Construction, engineering, and property development.
Employers: Construction firms, project management companies, and consulting firms.
Certification: Professional registration with bodies like the South African Council for the Quantity Surveying Profession (SACQSP) enhances credibility and opportunities.

2. Cost Consultant

Job Role: Advising on cost estimation, planning, and financial management of construction projects.
Industry: Consulting firms, government projects, and private sector developments.
Employers: Engineering consulting companies, property developers, and quantity surveying consultancies.

3. Contracts Manager

Job Role: Managing contracts and ensuring compliance with terms, handling negotiations, and overseeing the execution of contract obligations.
Industry: Construction, civil engineering, and infrastructure projects.
Employers: Large construction firms, public infrastructure agencies, and consultancy firms.

4. Project Manager

Job Role: Planning, executing, and overseeing construction projects, ensuring timely completion within budget and scope.
Industry: Real estate, construction, and engineering.
Employers: Construction and project management firms, real estate developers, and government bodies.

5. Property Development Manager

Job Role: Overseeing property development from conception to completion, managing costs, and ensuring compliance with legal and financial frameworks.
Industry: Real estate and property development.
Employers: Property development companies, real estate firms, and private developers.

6. Estimator

Job Role: Preparing accurate cost estimates for construction projects, assessing materials, labor, and equipment costs.
Industry: Construction, civil engineering, and architecture.
Employers: Construction firms, engineering companies, and specialized estimating consultancies.

7. Construction Manager

Job Role: Overseeing day-to-day operations on construction sites, managing staff, materials, and project timelines.
Industry: Construction and infrastructure.
Employers: Construction companies, property developers, and government agencies.

8. Risk Manager

Job Role: Identifying, analyzing, and mitigating financial and operational risks in construction projects.
Industry: Construction, finance, and real estate.
Employers: Construction firms, insurance companies, and consulting firms.

9. Procurement Manager

Job Role: Managing the procurement of materials and services required for construction projects, ensuring cost-effectiveness and timely delivery.
Industry: Construction, engineering, and project management.
Employers: Large construction and infrastructure companies.

10. Academic and Research Opportunities

Job Role: Teaching quantity surveying or related subjects at universities or technical colleges, or conducting research in construction economics, cost management, and sustainable construction.
Industry: Higher education and research institutions.
Employers: Universities, research bodies, and technical institutions.

Emerging Opportunities

With the rise of sustainable development and green building practices, quantity surveyors are increasingly involved in projects focusing on:

Green building assessments
Sustainability consultancy
Renewable energy project development

Professional Organizations

South African Council for the Quantity Surveying Profession (SACQSP): Registration as a professional quantity surveyor.
Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS): Networking, professional development, and industry standards.

Conclusion

South Africa’s ongoing infrastructure projects, urbanization, and emphasis on sustainable construction mean that Quantity Surveying professionals are in high demand across the country. The construction industry is a vital part of the economy, ensuring strong career prospects for graduates of BSc Quantity Surveying programs