Know The Differences: Quantity Surveying vs Sustainable Digital Construction Management

15 Nov 2024

8 Min Read

The Taylor's Team (Editor)

IN THIS ARTICLE

As the construction industry evolves, it increasingly calls for specialists who can navigate complex project demands and champion innovation. For students with a passion for building and development, selecting the right academic pathway is crucial to shaping a meaningful career. Two standout options in this field are the Bachelor of Quantity Surveying (Honours) and the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Sustainable Digital Construction Management—programmes that offer distinct yet complementary skills tailored to meet industry needs.

Overview

Bachelor of Quantity Surveying

This recognised qualification serves as your stepping stone towards becoming a Registered Quantity Surveyor—a pivotal role in the construction industry. Accredited by leading bodies such as the Board of Quantity Surveyors Malaysia (BQSM), the Pacific Association of Quantity Surveyors (PAQS), and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), enrolling in this programme grants you automatic BQSM membership and access to an international network spanning over 140 countries through RICS.

Core modules cover essential areas like Cost Estimation, Contract Administration, and Construction Economics, enhanced by advanced technology tools such as Building Information Modelling and Virtual Reality (VR) applications (e.g., Autodesk Revit, Glodon Cubicost). This ensures you graduate with industry-relevant skills, validated by top global accreditations and a curriculum infused with cutting-edge technology.

Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Digital Construction Management

This programme is designed for you if you aspire to lead in sustainable, tech-driven construction. It aligns with Malaysia's Construction 4.0 Strategic Plan, which champions digital transformation and sustainable practices, aiming for 80% adoption of Building Information Modelling by 2025. The curriculum is practice-led and includes a Work-Based Learning (WBL) track, giving you a one-year industry placement.

Collaborations with leading industry partners such as EcoWorld, Green Quarters, and YTL Constructions provide you with real-world experience and mentorship from industry experts. You’ll benefit from a multidisciplinary approach that covers unique subjects like Sustainable Project Management, Smart and Green Building Technologies, and collaborative design practices.

Key Differences

Bachelor of Quantity Surveying

This programme provides you with a comprehensive foundation in the financial and regulatory aspects of construction projects, equipping you to manage the financial health of projects from start to finish and ensure each phase is budgeted and managed within legal guidelines. You will develop deep expertise in areas such as:

Cost Estimation: Developing skills to accurately control and manage costs through manual measurement, 2D CAD measurement, 3D modelling, and BIM measurement, using software such as RIB CostX, Glodon Cubicost, and Autodesk Revit across various phases of construction.
Financial Reporting: Developing skills in cash flow analysis, financial documentation, and managing project funds effectively.
Contract Management: Understanding legal agreements, managing contract terms, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
Project management: Planning, coordinating, and overseeing construction projects using advanced digital tools to ensure completion on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.

These competencies position you to play a vital role in the planning, financial oversight, and successful execution of construction projects. With a curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge and practical skills, this programme is ideal for those who thrive on detail-oriented work and are drawn to the financial intricacies of project management.

Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Digital Construction Management

The programme prepares you to become a leader in the growing fields of sustainable and digital construction, with a strong focus on using cutting-edge technology and eco-friendly practices to drive industry innovation. Through courses that include:

Building Information Modelling (BIM): Using digital tools to design, plan, and manage construction projects more efficiently.
Sustainable Construction Practices: Learning about green materials, waste reduction techniques, and energy-efficient building methods.
Digital Project Management: Mastering digital project tracking and coordination to enhance productivity and accountability.

This blend of digital and sustainable expertise equips you to deliver forward-thinking, eco-conscious solutions, making you a valuable asset to firms dedicated to reducing environmental impact and embracing digital transformation in construction.

Taylor's lecturer guiding architecture student on the assignment on a laptop

Experience Your Future at Taylor’s Open Day – 7, 8 and 14, 15 December

Choosing a programme isn’t just about making a decision —it’s about envisioning the life you want to create. At our Open Day, come and explore the campus, meet inspiring lecturers and students, and get a feel for the opportunities waiting for you.

Career Pathways and Opportunities

Bachelor of Quantity Surveying

Graduates of this programme are equipped with specialised financial and regulatory expertise that positions you as a valuable asset across various sectors of the construction industry. Typical career paths include:

Quantity Surveyor: Overseeing project costs, preparing budget estimates, and managing expenses to ensure projects stay within financial limits.
Contract Manager: Handling contractual agreements, ensuring compliance with terms, and negotiating contract details for smooth project execution.
Project Estimator: Analysing project requirements, forecasting costs, and assisting in the planning stages by creating detailed project estimates.

These roles are vital in construction firms, government agencies, and consulting companies, where budgeting, cost control, and contract management are critical for project success. As a graduate, you’ll often work alongside engineers and project managers, contributing to financially sound and well-regulated construction projects.

Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Digital Construction Management

On the other hand, as a graduate of this programme, you will be well-prepared for roles that prioritise sustainability and digital transformation within the construction industry. Career opportunities include:

Sustainable Construction Manager: Leading projects with a focus on eco-friendly methods, energy-efficient designs, and environmentally sustainable practices.
BIM Specialist: Implementing BIM processes to improve project planning, design accuracy, and resource management through digital solutions.
Digital Construction Analyst: Analysing construction data to drive smart building practices, optimise project outcomes, and enhance digital project workflows.

These roles are highly sought after by companies focused on sustainable building practices, digital construction consultancy, and smart city development initiatives. With sustainability and technological advancement as key industry priorities, you will be well-positioned to lead projects that meet green building standards and utilise the latest construction technologies.

man using vr headset on construction work

How to Choose

Choosing between the Bachelor of Quantity Surveying and the Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Digital Construction Management depends on your personal interests, career ambitions, and the specific skills you want to develop within the construction industry. Here’s a closer look at who might benefit most from each programme:

Who Should Choose the Bachelor of Quantity Surveying

This programme is ideal for analytical, detail-oriented students who are drawn to the financial and legal aspects of construction. If you enjoy working with numbers, managing budgets, and negotiating contracts, and if the challenge of keeping complex projects financially on track excites you, Quantity Surveying could be the right path.

Through this degree, you’ll gain skills in cost estimation, contract management, and financial control, preparing you for a career where these competencies are crucial to the successful completion of construction projects.

Additionally, the programme's accreditations from BQSM, RICS, and PAQS provide professional recognition that can significantly benefit those pursuing careers as quantity surveyors, contract managers, and project estimators. These accreditations will open doors to international career opportunities and elevate one’s professional standing in a competitive industry landscape.

Who Should Choose the Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Digital Construction Management

If you’re passionate about technology, sustainability, and modernising the construction industry, Sustainable Digital Construction Management offers an exciting pathway. This degree is perfect for those who want to lead projects that make a positive environmental impact through eco-friendly practices and digital innovation.

You’ll learn to apply digital tools and sustainable methods, making this programme a strong fit for individuals who are tech-savvy, environmentally conscious, and interested in the future of smart and green construction. With a curriculum centred on a hands-on approach and aligned with the Construction 4.0 Strategic Plan, graduates are well-prepared for roles such as sustainable construction managers, BIM specialists, and digital project coordinators. Additionally, the programme’s partnerships with leading firms such as EcoWorld and Green Quarters enhance employability, equipping students to meet global standards in sustainable and digital construction.

Choosing the Right Path for Your Future

The Bachelor of Quantity Surveying and the Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Digital Construction Management offer distinct yet rewarding routes into the construction industry. To make the best decision, reflect on where your strengths and passions align. Consider the day-to-day tasks you would enjoy and the long-term impact you hope to have in your career. Ultimately, both programmes will equip you with the expertise and skills necessary to navigate the evolving construction landscape, positioning you for success in a dynamic and future-focused industry.

Ready to take the next step? Book an appointment with our education counsellor to explore which degree aligns best with your goals.

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