Bachelor of Surveying (BSurv)
Course details
| NZQF Level | 7 |
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About the course
The Bachelor of Surveying (BSurv) degree is the only academic qualification available in New Zealand that leads to full professional recognition as a Chartered Surveyor. It is also the only qualification that is recognised as being an appropriate foundation for Licensing by the Cadastral Surveyors Licensing Board of New Zealand.
Otago's BSurv degree is recognised for licensing in all Australian States, in both East and West Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong. It is also recognised as a strong (and appropriate) professional degree for those seeking employment as a surveyor in the United Kingdom, the Middle East, and Africa.
The degree is four years in length and aims to produce a graduate skilled in the science of measurement, in the practical issues of land planning and development, and in the legal issues associated with land ownership and resource management. It also allows a student to pursue GIS studies and other specialist professional areas such as hydrographic surveying, photogrammetry, remote sensing, and the study of land tenure systems. The degree is characterised by its strong academic, practical and professional emphasis.
Information for new applicants
All new students applying for a Surveying programme for the first time must apply for Bachelor of Surveying (BSurv First Year) using the first 'Apply now' button above.
Students who have completed their first year apply via their eVision portal and select Bachelor of Surveying from the programmes section.
New students to Otago, who have completed the first year compulsory papers elsewhere, and are wishing to apply directly for the Bachelor of Surveying should contact the School of Surveying for assistance.
This programme is subject to limitations on enrolment numbers from second year. Qualified domestic students are given first preference, but places may be available for international students. International students enrolled in the Surveying First Year may transfer into the BSc Land Planning and Development should admission to the Bachelor of Surveying not be possible.
Fees for surveying students
Surveying students are required to pay excursion and field camp fees. Details are available from the School of Surveying.
Entry requirements
Entry to the Bachelor of Surveying
First year – general entry requirements
If you have done no prior tertiary study, your first year of study will be the Bachelor of Surveying First Year programme. The BSurv First Year is subject to the same general entry requirements as general bachelors' degrees at Otago.
Second year – limited entry
Admission to the second year of the Bachelor of Surveying degree is based on your academic record (either in the Bachelor of Surveying First Year programme or other prior tertiary study).
For detailed information, please refer to:
General entry requirements
A university entrance qualification is essential for admission to the University of Otago for all types of programmes. You must also be at least 16 years of age by the first day of classes in your period of study and meet English language requirements.
Domestic students
You need to have met the New Zealand University Entrance standard, based on your achievement in secondary school or other prior study. Learn about the different categories for achieving University Entrance and what information you may need to provide with your application.
International students
Check recognised entry qualifications by country, and find out what documents you need to provide for a successful application.
English language requirements
All students must be proficient in the use of English. If your first language is not English, there are several ways you may provide evidence of English proficiency, including through prior secondary or tertiary study, internationally recognised English language tests, and foundation language programmes.
The level of English proficiency required for undergraduate study is equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.0, with no individual band below 5.5.
For details about what is accepted as evidence of English proficiency, please refer to:
About the provider
The University of Otago, New Zealand’s first university, was founded in 1869 and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with a strong emphasis on research and academic excellence. Ranked in the top 1% of universities globally and 2nd in New Zealand, it is also 214th worldwide according to QS rankings. Recognised as the top university in New Zealand for student academic performance by the Tertiary Education Commission, 96% of its graduates either enter the workforce or pursue further study shortly after graduation.
Located in Dunedin, a vibrant student city where students make up 20% of the population, the University benefits from a unique atmosphere. Dunedin, on the south-eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, featuring Victorian and Edwardian architecture, picturesque hills, and wildlife reserves.
The University’s campus is ranked the 5th most beautiful in the world by THE Student Voice, enhancing the educational experience. The Otago region offers diverse scenery and is close to popular destinations such as Queenstown. New Zealand is rated the 1st most beautiful country by Rough Guides 2024, is renowned for its natural beauty, Māori heritage, and multicultural society, providing a friendly, inclusive environment for students and residents.