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Start Date
January, April, June, September

Duration
0.5 year(s) full-time

Mode
Online

Time Commitment
10 - 15 hours per week per course

Program Code
XUCM

Study as
Full-time or part-time

Check your eligibility
Answer a few short questions to determine your eligibility
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Degree overview

  • Develop the foundation skills and knowledge to understand the construction process, including drafting, residential construction, construction materials, and the organisation and structure of the construction industry.
  • Understand and apply the principles, practices and communication methods used across the Australian residential low-rise construction sector, with just six months of full-time study.
  • Learn how to create written, graphical and visual communication using 2D manual drafting techniques and 3D Building Information Modelling (BIM) software.
  • Study a university qualification informed by world-class research in building and construction.1
  • Use your credit from this program as a guaranteed pathway* into a range of bachelor degrees.

*Minimum course requirements must be met.
1Results in Building – 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).

What you'll learn

What you Learn

Build a solid foundation of practical skills and career-relevant knowledge designed to meet the growing demand for leaders in construction, informed by world-class research and strong connections to industry.

In just six months of full-time study, you’ll learn about the organisational structure of the construction industry, and understand the management techniques, communication methods, and principles and practices of the building process. Explore commonly used construction materials and products, the factors affecting the selection of materials, and the life cycle and sustainable use of materials throughout a project.

Develop a comprehensive understanding of the communication tools used in domestic building construction, exploring 3D Building Information Modelling (BIM) and 2D working drawings. You’ll gain technical knowledge across a broad range of core construction concepts and skills, including site preparation, foundations, cladding, glazing, energy efficiency and external works, and learn about handover and completion of residential low-rise builds.

Graduate with a qualification aligned to entry level roles in the construction industry, or pave the way for further study in construction management, engineering, or a related honours program.

Study hours

Studying 100% online means you can engage with course materials at your own pace, whenever it suits you – there is no need to be online at a particular time. It’s flexible around your life so you can control your study schedule week by week. As a general rule, we recommend 10 to 15 hours of study a week for each course.

Assessment

Assessment

All assessments, including exams (if required) are 100% online, meaning you’ll never need to travel to submit an assignment or find an exam venue.

Some of your assessments may include:

  • an industry-relevant project
  • an online presentation
  • essays and reports.

Degree structure

Please note, courses may not be displayed in order of study.

First year
book
book
book
UO Construction Communication (BUIL 1025) , Note(s): 1
book
UO Construction 1 (CIVE 1005)

Study Construction Management on demand

UniSA Online Degree Adviser, Jacquaya, explains why an undergraduate certificate could be the perfect place to start your university journey or enhance your skill set.

UniSA Video

Why Undergraduate Certificate in Construction Management

Why this Degree

With Australia’s population growing rapidly and the demand for new homes outpacing supply, opportunities for qualified leaders in the multibillion-dollar construction industry are growing exponentially. Professionals with the skills to manage and lead essential commercial and residential projects will be well placed for a dynamic career in an innovative and lucrative field.

The Undergraduate Certificate in Construction Management will equip you with a broad skill set across core construction management concepts, giving you a competitive edge to advance your career or pursue further study. You’ll gain practical, real-world skills informed by expert academics who have a wealth of experience in industry, and study in-demand techniques you can apply from day one.

Gain an in-demand qualification transferable to a range of sectors and aligned to demand, strengthened by industry connections with national leaders in construction, and world-class research in construction management2.

You’ll graduate with a nationally recognised university qualification, or be eligible to use the credit gained from your studies to transition straight into the first year of the Bachelor of Construction Management or Bachelor of Construction Management (Honours). With up to four courses (18 units) of credit awarded for successful completion of the undergraduate certificate, you’ll also have the option to tailor a bespoke study pathway into a range of degrees across engineering and more.

2Results in Building – 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).

Industry facts

buildings-city

In 2023, Australia’s construction industry contributed around $156 billion to the economy and employed over one million people.

Statista, Construction industry in Australia – statistics & facts, 2024.

money-trees

The median income for a full-time construction manager is more than double the average of all other occupations in Australia. 

Australian Government, Jobs and Skills Australia, 2024.

job-listings

There is currently a major nationwide labour shortage for qualified construction managers in Australia.

Australian Government, Jobs and Skills Australia, 2024.

Your study experience and support

Study On Demand

Our online career-focused degrees give you full control and ultimate flexibility over your study. It’s Study On Demand, on your schedule, on your terms.

  • Study 100% online - no need to come onto campus
  • Choose from four start dates in January, April, June and September
  • Learn in 10-week blocks
  • Get support seven days a week - including on weeknights
  • Access learning resources 24/7
  • View course content before your term starts
  • Work while you study
  • Plan your study schedule ahead of time
  • Fast-track your studies and receive credit for past study and/or work experience.

Why UniSA Online?

Student services

Our graduates get jobs

UniSA is ranked as the number one university in Australia for graduate employability.1 Join a university known for its employment outcomes. Your UniSA Online degree is more than just a piece of paper – it will prepare you to start your career or take it to the next level.

Specifically designed for online learning

Our team of academic and online experts have created interactive and media-rich course material using innovative digital technology and state-of-the-art teaching and learning resources. Every degree has been specifically designed for online learning to ensure you graduate with the skills and knowledge for your future career.

Backed by industry

Every UniSA Online degree is overseen by an experienced industry advisory board. We've also consulted with industry experts with a wealth of experience to design course content that reflects the most cutting-edge developments in your field. Our industry connections will enrich your online study experience - you'll be presented with industry problems that real organisations face. You'll also gain the skills and knowledge that industry are telling us they need in graduates.

Expand your professional network from wherever you are

Online study doesn’t mean studying on your own. You’ll connect with a community of other like-minded students – you’ll be able to share, debate and collaborate ideas through virtual classrooms, online chat, video conferencing, and online communication tools.

1 QILT Employer Satisfaction Survey, 2020-22 – Employability Skills Indicator. Public universities.

Student support

Student services

Studying can be challenging, especially when you’re also juggling work and other life commitments. You’re not studying 9-5, Monday to Friday, which is why we provide personalised, extended hour support services – including on weekends – so you can get help when you need it. 

Dedicated Student Adviser support

Our Student Advisers will be an important part of your student journey – they’ll help you enrol, discuss your study goals, communication preferences, and will be your first point of call for all your general study questions. They’ll link you to an extensive range of support services and resources across the University and will help schedule appointments with specialised services if required.

Online academic support seven days a week

You’ll be supported by our highly experienced academic team of Online Course Facilitators and Online Tutors. Our academics will guide you through your learning and ensure you have an outstanding, high-quality education.

They can help you with your course materials and assessments, provide feedback on your work, assist you with referencing as well as answer any other course-specific queries. You’ll be able to contact your academics via email, online discussion forums and live messages in the online learning environment. You can also communicate in real-time and chat face-to-face with your academics online.

24/7 tech support

Our IT Help Desk is available 24/7 to provide assistance with your computer set up, student email, software requirements and other UniSA apps and student applications. You’ll be able to get support no matter what time it is.

24/7 digital environment

Our interactive online environment is a one-stop shop for all your study needs. You’ll be able to track your progress through the student dashboard, plan your study schedule, receive reminders on due dates for tasks and assessments, as well as collaborate and network with a community of other like-minded students.

Using innovative technology in online education, your study experience will be highly personalised based on your learning activities throughout your degree. Just like your own personal study coach, you’ll get tailored feedback to enhance your learning outcomes and ensure you’re successful in your studies.

Student services

IT Requirements

As a general rule of thumb, any desktop or laptop computer purchased in the past three years should be capable of meeting your online learning needs. While mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones will be able to access most of your online course content, there are likely to be elements of most courses where we recommend you use a desktop or laptop computer. Your computer should be able to:

  • run a modern browser (Microsoft Edge, Firefox 24, Safari 5, or Chrome 32 or later versions)
  • run Java
  • run programs to create documents, spreadsheets and presentations
  • use a web camera and headset (or ear pods with microphone)
  • Some UniSA Online degrees require an online exam. The online exam software – Remote Proctor Now – has specific capability requirements. Please refer to the system requirements prior to conducting your exam to ensure your computer is compatible.

Access free IT software and resources

As a UniSA Online student, you'll:

  • Get free access to the full Office 365 ProPlus suite, which includes full versions of Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, Access and Lync software. Install the full suite on up to five different devices (PC and Mac compatible). 
  • Get 1Tb of personal storage that syncs with your PC or mobile device through OneDrive - it's like an extra hard drive that allows you to open any of your files from any of your devices, whenever you need them. 
  • Get free access to LinkedIn Learning - Access more than 5000 video courses on a broad range of topics such as: the Microsoft Office suite, time management and study skills, health and wellbeing, communication and presentation skills, photography, film making and designing your own games or mobile apps.
  • Be able to connect with others using Microsoft Teams, Yammer and the Outlook Web App.

There are some degrees that have specialised software requirements. We've made this software available to students to access for free - you'll be able to download and install any of the required programs on your own device anywhere and anytime. See if your degree requires specialised software.

Check your device

Our computer system test will determine if your device has the base system resources and software required to study online. It'll also check the speed of your internet connection.

See if your computer, laptop or device is all set up and ready to go – it takes just a few seconds.

How to apply

The application process is easy – just follow these simple steps:

  1. Check your eligibility

    Take our eligibility checker and answer a few short questions to see if you’re eligible. You’ll be given an option to continue your application, save it for later or request a call back from a Degree Adviser if you have any questions.

  2. Gather your relevant documents

    If you're eligible, you'll receive an email outlining the entry requirements and the relevant documentation you need in order to be considered.

    In order to verify your academic qualifications, you'll need to upload relevant documents like your official parchment, certificates or transcripts. If you have work experience, you will need to upload your CV as well as any other documents like work references, professional recognition or accreditation or your training certification.

    Your email will contain information on the specific documents you need to provide as well as a link to log in to your application. You'll be asked to create an account and set your own password.

  3. Complete your application and send through your documents

    In order to proceed with your conditional offer, you’ll need to complete your application and provide required evidence of your previous study or work experience.

Alternative Pathways

Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

UniSA College Foundation Studies
UniSA Online UniStart

Online Course Facilitator

I am the Program Director at UniSA STEM, and lecture in courses on building surveying and development regulation. Prior to joining UniSA I worked as building surveyor, and I continue to maintain my Level 1 Building Surveyor accreditation to ensure that my teaching is at the forefront of the latest industry standards. 

Demand for construction management professionals has never been stronger, and the Undergraduate Certificate in Construction Management is a great opportunity for you to undertake four courses from the undergraduate construction management degree that can help you start a career in construction management, excel your current career, or provide you with a pathway into a construction management degree where there are a number of construction management career options and specialisations that await you. 

Rob Freda


Program Director

Enquire
Portrait image for Rob Freda
Portrait image for Rob Freda

Rob Freda


Program Director

Enquire

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