Course Overview
Quantity surveying is a profession centred on preparation, construction and the management of the costs and budgets of large scale projects within the construction industry. Professionals in this profession are referred to as quantity surveyors among other titles. Quantity surveyors are responsible for figuring out just what a construction project is going to cost. They also ensure construction costs and production are managed as efficiently as possible. From the moment a plan is drawn by architects and other built environment professionals until a large construction project has been completed, a quantity surveyor is likely to be involved in a financial, technical and legal capacity. The tasks of quantity surveyors are broadly concerned with the control of the cost on construction projects, cost management as well as maintenance of the budget, valuations and any emerging legal matters in the course of the project. These professionals ensure that the project remains efficient, profitable and is completed within budget.
The Bachelor of Quantity Surveying is a four year course that is indented to empower students with sound knowledge and practical skills to think critically towards finding solutions to problems in civil engineering and building construction through sound management of projects costs and budgets. The curriculum of the programme has been designed to cover wide fields such as; Construction Law, Construction Measurement, Construction Economics, Construction Technology Among others. The course aims to equip students with specialized techniques and skills which will enable them work with other professionals in the construction industry. Upon successful completion of the course, graduates will be competent to improve the efficiency of the building construction process and be eligible for careers within construction cost consultancy and quantity surveying, project management, building and engineering construction cost modelling and dispute resolution among other construction related areas. Areas of employment for graduates of this programme include; construction companies, consulting quantity surveying firms, government ministries, parastatals, local authorities, insurance companies, financial institutions and other players in the construction industry. Graduates of the course also have an option to venture into self employment.
Entry requirement
For self sponsored students, at least a mean grade of C+ in KCSE. For Government sponsored students, the minimum cut point which is announced annually applies. The students should in addition have good performance in the following cluster subjects; Subject 1 MAT A, Subject 2 PHY, Subject 3 any GROUP III, Subject 4 2nd GROUP II or 2nd GROUP III or any GROUP IV or any GROUP V.
Becoming a quantity surveyor
If you have an enthusiasm for law, management or economics, are interested in the construction process from the inception of a building to completion and would like to start a career within the building industry where you can manage the financial and legal aspects of building projects, then pursuing this course might be a good choice for you. In addition, you should be prepared to develop skills that can help you grow and succeed in this profession.
Quantity surveying (QS) encompasses many aspects of construction process; quantity surveyors must therefore have a good knowledge of construction methods and materials. They also need to have adequate skills in regard to budget handling and analysis and be able to devise methods to manage construction costs effectively. Most professions have embraced technology in their work, these professionals must therefore have excellent IT and maths skills.
Quantity surveyors must also be well organised and be able to keep their work in an orderly manner in regard to construction financial and legal matters. Like any other professional, good people and communication skills will enable QS professionals create good working relationships and be able to communicate effectively with other professionals such as architects, engineers as well as clients themselves. Quantity Surveyors must have a clear understanding of building regulations and other legal guidelines within their field.
Work environment.
Quantity surveyors work mostly in offices and also visit job sites.
Career opportunities
Graduates of this course may find employment in areas such as; Quantity Surveying consulting firms, Building and civil engineering contractors, Architectural firms, Government ministries, parastatals, local authorities, insurance companies, financial institutions, Project management firms, Engineering firms, Project planning, evaluation and costing firms, property companies among other players in the construction industry. Graduates can also use their creativity and start their own consulting businesses.
You may explore these courses
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.)
Bachelor of Architectural Technology
Bachelor of Science in construction management
Bachelor of Technology in Building Construction
Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering