Bachelor of Surveying (BSurv)
Other Engineering
A course by
Otago University
The Bachelor of Surveying (BSurv) is a four-year degree providing the only New Zealand academic qualification leading to full professional recognition as a Chartered Surveyor and foundation for Licensing by the Cadastral Surveyors Licensing Board. It prepares graduates in measurement science, land planning and development, legalities of land ownership, and resource management, with options to pursue GIS and specialist surveying fields such as hydrographic surveying, photogrammetry, and remote sensing.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Dunedin, Dunedin
It will take a total of 4 years


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Professional Surveying Competency
Graduate with skills meeting the requirements for Chartered Surveyor recognition and cadastral licensing in New Zealand and other regions.

Measurement Science Proficiency
Apply scientific principles and practical techniques for precise measurement in land surveying.

Land Planning and Development Understanding
Evaluate and plan land use, considering development potential and environmental aspects.
What You're Signing Up For
The Bachelor of Surveying at University of Otago is a four-year undergraduate degree that aims to develop graduates skilled in the science of measurement, practical land planning and development, and the legal issues surrounding land ownership and resource management. The programme includes strong academic, practical, and professional focus, recognised for licensing across New Zealand, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and other international regions. The degree offers pathways to GIS studies and specialist professional areas including hydrographic surveying, photogrammetry, remote sensing, and land tenure systems. Admission to second year is competitive with preference to qualified domestic students and limited international student places. Students must pay excursion and field camp fees relevant to surveying practice.
Course Content
- Measurement science and techniques
- Land planning and development
- Legal aspects of land ownership
- Resource management principles
- GIS studies
- Hydrographic surveying
- Photogrammetry
- Remote sensing
- Land tenure systems
- Field excursions and camps
- Practical surveying experience through papers SURV 298, SURV 299, SURV 399, SURV 499
What you need to know first
Completion of first year Surveying papers or equivalent
Academic record evaluation for admission to second year
Application deadline for second year enrolment: 15 November preceding year

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Surveying and Spatial Science
Land Development
Resource Management
Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Future employment opportunities might be
Chartered Surveyor
Cadastral Surveyor
GIS Specialist
Hydrographic Surveyor
Remote Sensing Specialist
Land Planner
Resource Manager


Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer
Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details