Study Guide: Quantity Surveying in Malaysia
Imagine you have a big box of colorful building blocks. Studying quantity surveying is a bit like learning how to use those blocks to build something amazing, like a tall tower or a cool castle!
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When you study quantity surveying, you get to learn how to count all the blocks, decide which ones you need, and figure out how much they cost. It's like being a block detective! You also learn how to make a special plan, almost like a treasure map, to make sure you have just the right amount of blocks and don't run out.
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Then, you become a block manager. You watch as builders (like you and your friends) start building with the blocks. Your job is to make sure they use the right number of blocks and follow the plan. If they need more blocks or if something unexpected happens, you help them solve the puzzle.
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Studying quantity surveying is like becoming a block expert who knows how to organize, count, and manage the blocks to create fantastic things. It's a bit like being a block superhero, making sure everything fits together perfectly!
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Quantity Surveying
So, what is Quantity Surveying?
Quantity surveying is a profession within the construction industry that involves managing and controlling the costs of a building project. A person working in quantity surveying is called a quantity surveyor. Their role is to ensure that a construction project stays within its budget by estimating costs, preparing budgets, and monitoring expenses throughout the project.
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Key responsibilities of a quantity surveyor include:
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Cost Estimation
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Budgeting
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Tendering
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Cost Control
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Valuation
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Contract Management
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Risk Management
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Life Cycle Costing
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Architecture Vs. Quantity Surveying
While both quantity surveying and architecture are essential components of the construction industry, they represent different facets of the building process—one centered around cost management and the other around design and planning.
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Let's imagine building a big, cool Lego castle! Quantity surveying and architecture are like two important jobs in making sure the castle is awesome.
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Architecture: Imagine an architect as the superhero who designs and plans how the castle will look. They think about where the towers will be, how the walls will stand, and where the drawbridge goes. Architects draw pretty pictures of the castle and make sure everything is super cool and safe.
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Quantity Surveying: Now, think of the quantity surveyor as another superhero but with a different job. They are like the treasure keepers. They figure out how many Lego bricks we need, how much each kind of brick costs, and how long it will take to build. They help make sure we have just enough bricks and that we don't spend too much money or time.
So, the architect is the creative brain, making sure the castle looks amazing, and the quantity surveyor is the smart friend, making sure we have everything we need and not spending too much money. Together, they help build the most awesome Lego castle ever!
Entry Requirements to Study Quantity Surveying
These are the general entry requirements to pursue a degree in quantity surveying. Entry requirements for some universities may be higher, so do make sure you check the details carefully.
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A-Level: Minimum EEE
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Australian Matriculation SAM/SACE International: Minimum ATAR 65
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Canadian Pre-University programme: Minimum of 65% in 6 subjects
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Foundation/Matriculation programme: Pass with minimum CGPA of 2.50
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International Baccalaureate (IB): Minimum 24 points in 6 subjects
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UEC: Pass with minimum 5Bs including Mathematics or Advanced Mathematics or Advanced Mathematics 1 or Advanced Mathematics 2
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STPM: Minimum CGPA 2.00 in 3 subjects and minimum Grade C for each subject
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Diploma: Minimum CGPA of 2.50
Pathway to Study Quantity Surveying
This is the general pathway to study architecture after completing your SPM or IGCSE.
Step 1: Complete STPM/UEC/Pre-university programme for 1-2 years. You can also opt to be enrolled in Diploma in Architecture for 2.5 years.
Step 2: Once you graduate with a diploma/STPM/Pre-University programme, enrol in a 3-year quantity surveying degree programme.
Step 3: Once you've completed your degree in architecture, you can choose to go straight to the workforce as a Graduate Quantity Surveyor.
Step 4: If you want to be a Registered Quantity Surveyor, you need to be employed by a Registered Quantity Surveyor for 2 years, and the next step is to sit and pass a Joint Test of Professional Competence, and also pass a professional Interview
Subjects​
In Malaysia, a quantity surveying degree takes at least 3 years long to complete and the total anticipated costs for a 3-year quantity surveying degree might range from RM100,000 to RM150,000.
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A quantity surveying degree program typically covers a range of topics that prepare students for a career in managing and controlling costs within the construction industry. While specific courses may vary between universities, a quantity surveying degree often includes the following subjects:
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Construction Technology
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Measurement and Estimation
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Construction Economics
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Law and Contracts in Construction
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Project Management
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Risk Management
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Building Information Modeling (BIM)
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Sustainable Construction
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These courses provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the construction industry, equipping them with the skills needed to manage costs, contracts, and projects effectively as quantity surveyors. Additionally, practical experience, internships, or work placements may be incorporated into the program to provide students with real-world exposure to the field.
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Job Prospects with A Quantity Surveying Degree​
A quantity surveying degree opens up various career opportunities in the construction and built environment sector. The versatility of a quantity surveying degree allows individuals to explore various paths within the construction and built environment industry. The specific career path may depend on individual preferences, interests, and additional skills developed throughout one's career. Here are some common jobs that individuals with a quantity surveying degree may secure:
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Building Material Manager
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Building Surveyor
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Construction Manager
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Consultant Quantity Surveyor
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Contractor Quantity Surveyor
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Developer Quantity Surveyor
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Geomatic & Land Surveyor
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Mechanical & Electrical Quantity Surveyor
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Property Management, Valuation & Estate Agency Surveyor
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Universities to Study Quantity Surveying
Taylor's University
Bachelor of Quantity Surveying (Honours)
Intakes: February, April & September
Total Tuition Fee: RM126,734
Duration: 3 years
University of Reading Malaysia
BSc Quantity Surveying
Intakes: April, July & September
Annual Tuition Fee: RM37,600
Duration: 3 years
SEGi University
Bachelor of Science (Hons) Quantity Surveying
Intakes: January, June, August
Annual Tuition Fee: N/A
Duration: 3 years
Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying
Intakes: September & January
Annual Tuition Fee: RM36,560
Duration: 3 years