If you’re planning a career in the built environment, Quantity Surveying and Construction Management are two of the most in-demand professions in South Africa. These fields play a major role in infrastructure development, cost management, project planning, and the successful delivery of construction projects — from homes to mega-infrastructure.
South Africa is home to some of the best universities offering world-class training in these disciplines. Below is your complete guide to the top institutions offering Quantity Surveying and Construction Management programmes.
1. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
NMU is one of the leading Universities of Technology for the built environment, offering practical, industry-focused training with strong links to the construction sector.
Programmes Offered:
- Bachelor of Construction Studies
- Bachelor of Quantity Surveying
- Bachelor of Construction Economics & Management
- Postgraduate options in the Built Environment
Why Study at NMU?
- Strong industry partnerships
- Practical site-based learning
- Located in a growing construction region
2. University of Cape Town (UCT)
UCT’s Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment is internationally recognised and offers one of the oldest construction and QS programmes in South Africa.
Programmes Offered:
- BSc in Construction Studies
- BSc (Hons) in Quantity Surveying
- BSc (Hons) in Construction Management
- MSc & PhD in the Built Environment
Why Study at UCT?
- High research output
- Strong professional accreditation
- Excellent employment rates for graduates
3. Stellenbosch University (SU)
Stellenbosch is known for its high-quality academic training and innovative research in construction and project management.
Programmes Offered:
- BSc in Construction Management
- Postgraduate diplomas and master’s programmes in Construction & Engineering Management
Why Study at SU?
- Strong focus on project management and leadership
- Highly respected in the engineering and construction sectors
- Access to an advanced research environment
4. University of Johannesburg (UJ)
UJ’s built environment school is known for producing workplace-ready graduates with strong technical and managerial skills.
Programmes Offered:
- Bachelor of Construction (Quantity Surveying)
- Bachelor of Construction (Construction Management)
- Advanced Diploma, Honours, MSc and PhD in the Built Environment
Why Study at UJ?
- Industry-driven curriculum
- Modern construction laboratories
- Excellent for students wanting to join the private sector
5. University of Pretoria (UP)
UP offers some of the most prestigious built environment programmes in the country, attracting students from across Africa.
Programmes Offered:
- BSc in Quantity Surveying
- BSc in Construction Management
- BSc in Real Estate
- Honours, Masters and PhD in Built Environment disciplines
Why Study at UP?
- High professional accreditation (SACQSP, SACPCMP)
- Strong links to government and major construction firms
- Excellent postgraduate opportunities
6. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Wits is well-known for its strong engineering and built environment faculty, with QS and Construction programmes that emphasise analytical thinking and project leadership.
Programmes Offered:
- BSc in Construction Studies
- BSc Honours in Quantity Surveying
- BSc Honours in Construction Management
- Master’s & PhD in Built Environment
Why Study at Wits?
- Located in South Africa’s largest construction hub (Johannesburg)
- High employability and research-driven programmes
- Strong professional networks in industry
Career Opportunities in Quantity Surveying & Construction Management
Graduates can work in both the private and public sectors across roles such as:
- Quantity Surveyor
- Construction Manager
- Project Manager
- Cost Consultant
- Contract Administrator
- Property & Real Estate Developer
- Infrastructure Planner
- Site Manager