Bachelor of Building Science

Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington is an international leader in the field of building science. Our Bachelor of Building Science (BBSc) is the country’s leading programme devoted to the science of buildings.

In the BBSc, you’ll study the theory and practice of building construction and sustainability. While considering architectural design issues, you’ll develop the knowledge to promote the construction of durable, economic, and healthy buildings.

The BBSc has five majors, with each [major] focusing on a different area:

• Building Surveying
• Built and Natural Heritage Conservation
• Project Management
• Smart Cities and Digital Built Environments
• Sustainable Engineering Systems.

At the end of three years of study, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to begin a satisfying career in the building industry—or to continue your study at [postgraduate] level. Along with an understanding of architecture, you’ll graduate with expertise in the human factors, science, and technology of building.

Fill in a form to find out more about your study options at the School of Architecture in our qualification handbook.

For this degree you'll need to:

Complete at least 360 points, of which:

At least 270 points must be from courses listed for the BBSc, Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS), or Bachelor of Construction (BConst)

At least 210 points must be at 200 and 300 level

Of the 210 points, at least 180 points must be from courses listed for the BBSc, BAS, or BConst

Of those 180 points, at least 90 points must be at 300 level

Complete four courses at 100 level:

SARC 121

SARC 122

SARC 131

SARC 161

Complete two courses at 200 level:

BILD 222

SARC 221

Complete three courses at 300 level:

BILD 364

SARC 321

SARC 362

Satisfy the requirements for at least one major subject (see below)

IELTS (Academic): minimum overall score of 6.0 with no sub-score below 5.5

TOEFL: minimum overall score of 80 (internet-based test)

Pearson Test of English: minimum score of 50 (with a 'Communicative score' of not less than 42)

Victoria University of Wellington English for Academic Purpose (EAP) programme: minimum final scores of 4,4,4,3

Cambridge English Qualifications: C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency with a score of 169 or higher, with each skill score no less than 162

New Zealand Certificates in English Language (NZCEL): Level 4 (Academic)

NZAPA: English New Zealand Accredited Pathway Assessment Level 2 (with no skill lower than Level 1)