A comparison of quantity surveyors and accountants will show similarity in roles, particularly in the planning and managing of costs, but quantity surveyors might insist tongue in cheek that they are ahead in terms of personality!
Interpersonal and communication skills are indeed important for quantity surveyors, who are required to communicate with anyone from architects and subcontractors to engineers and planners to provide services that can maximise value and minimise risk for their clients. Working closely and possibly for long periods with other professionals, quantity surveyors also ensure proper tender and procurement methods and contractual procedures are adhered to, and that resources are used effectively.
A solid foundation in skills and knowledge for Quantity Surveying (QS) can be established at INTI International University (INTI IU), which is offering studies in QS at both diploma and degree levels. The Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Quantity Surveying is a newly launched and comprehensive programme that prepares graduates for the role of managing the financial and procurement processes of construction projects. It includes studies in cost planning, cost control, building development techniques, building research, computer software applications, measurement of quantities of building and infrastructure work and handling of construction legal issues.
The programme’s highlights include regular field trips and visits to construction sites, developers’ offices and the Public Works Department to expose students to the real working environment of a quantity surveyor. They are also provided internship opportunities to gain practical experience. The skills acquired through the programme will give graduates the option to serve in different sectors such as property, construction, supply of building materials and consultancy – just to name a few. The 3.5-year programme meets the requirements established by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and the Board of Quantity Surveyors Malaysia (BQSM).
 |
 INTI’s Quantity Surveying programmes enable graduates to take on the challenging role of managing the financial and procurement processes of construction projects. |
INTI IU’s Diploma in Quantity Surveying programme also fulfills all the requirements established by MQA as well as the Institution of Surveyors Malaysia (ISM).
Liew Chen Ying, 23, who holds a diploma in QS from INTI IU was offered a job almost immediately after her final examination, thanks to her qualification and the high demand for quantity surveyors in the country.
“I found the course to be very interesting and challenging as the coursework and projects assigned by the lecturers were very industry based,” said Liew, who has plans for degree studies in QS. “While pursuing my diploma, I had many opportunities to participate in site visits, seminars, presentations by professionals and activities organized by the Quantity Surveying club on campus.”
INTI’s Diploma in Quantity Surveying graduates have the option to pursue their degrees at INTI IU or overseas. They can be accepted into the second year of studies in QS in UK and Australian universities including the University of West of England, Bristol, University of Salford, and Queensland University of Technology.
Students of INTI benefit not only from its 25 years of experience and strong track-record, but also gain from the global synergy and resources that Laureate International Universities provides. INTI is part of Laureate, the world’s largest private education network with a presence in over 26 countries, with more than 60 accredited universities and 130 campuses, serving more than 650,000 students globally.
For more information on INTI’s Quantity Surveying programmes, call 06-7982000.