
Quantity surveying is an essential discipline, a subset within the construction and infrastructure industry, responsible for overseeing project costs, contracts, and financial planning. Quantity surveyors (QS) help projects remain financially viable by managing budgets effectively, all while upholding quality standards and adhering to legal and regulatory requirements. It has become one of the most lucrative fields of work, as has the demand for quantity surveyor courses. According to Statista, the construction industry is poised for significant growth, predicting a 5.88% annual increase, reaching $124.60 billion by 2028. So, if you want to land better roles and bigger pay cheques, now is a great time to upskill.
Why Do Quantity Surveyors Need To Upskill in 2025?
Quantity Surveyors must upskill due to a prevailing talent gap in the construction industry and the rapid adoption of advanced technologies like BIM, robotics, and 3D printing. Traditional manual measurement techniques are being augmented and, in some cases, replaced by BIM software for quantity surveyors. Proficiency in new-age tools, software, and processes is mandatory for staying relevant, gaining a competitive edge, and securing leadership roles in top firms, as the future of construction is becoming tech-focused.
The United States is projected to see a significant demand for quantity surveyors, with an expected 4,000 new job openings annually until 2030. Therefore, aspirants as well as graduates should invest in reliable quantity surveyor courses.
7 Best Online Courses & Certifications For Quantity Surveyors in the US
The benefits of BIM for quantity surveyors not only add value to their portfolios but also secure their future. Here are a top quantity surveyor certification and courses to upskill yourself:
Course Name |
Duration |
Fee |
BIM Professional Course for Civil Engineers by Novatr |
7 months |
$2,500 |
Quantity Surveying Courses by Udemy |
NA |
NA |
Coursera Construction Cost Estimating and Cost Control by Columbia University |
19-22 hours |
NA |
Certificate in Quantity Surveying Practice by RICS Online Academy |
8 months |
$1,530 |
Construction Estimating and Budgeting Courses by LinkedIn Learning |
NA |
NA |
EdX Project Management for Construction by Columbia University |
4 months |
$996 |
MSc Quantity Surveying by the University of Salford (Online) |
30 months |
$13,250 |
1. BIM Professional Course for Civil Engineers by Novatr
The program is structured into 10 comprehensive modules lasting 2 to 4 weeks. It begins with the fundamentals of BIM and gradually progresses into modeling components, creating families, and working with concrete and steel structures. It also covers advanced topics like precast elements, reinforcement detailing, scheduling, annotations, documentation, and presentation of BIM models. Students are introduced to vital industry standards, including ISO 19650, and gain practical insights into collaboration, coordination, clash detection, and the development of a BEP. The course includes hands-on capstone projects and allows learners to choose from various specializations based on their interests. It is considered one of the best civil quantity surveyor courses and provides placement support.
2. Quantity Surveying Courses by Udemy
Udemy features a wide range of quantity surveyor courses for beginners tailored to various areas, such as cost estimation, budgeting for construction projects, and managing contracts. These courses are known for being affordable and come with lifetime access, allowing learners to study at their own pace. They offer video-based lessons with downloadable materials for flexible learning.
3. Coursera Construction Cost Estimating and Cost Control by Columbia University
This Coursera course, developed by Columbia University, delves into the core concepts of construction cost estimation and effective cost control. It strengthens financial planning and budget oversight capabilities. This quantity surveyor certification course covers estimating costs, managing budgets, and forecasting expenses. Designed for flexibility with engaging video lectures, interactive quizzes, and real-world case studies, it includes a certificate upon completion.
4. Certificate in Quantity Surveying Practice by RICS Online Academy
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) offers an online course for quantity surveyors to equip learners with a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of quantity surveying. As a globally respected body, RICS provides industry-aligned training that reflects current best practices and explores essential topics. It also grants access to RICS resources, including case studies and expert-led webinars.
5. Construction Estimating and Budgeting Courses by LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning provides diverse BIM and quantity surveyor courses tailored to construction estimation and budgeting, making it a convenient platform for professionals looking to upskill. The topics include cost estimation, material takeoffs, and financial planning—all presented in a user-friendly format. The courses are offered through video tutorials and practical exercises. It also comes with a professional quantity surveyor certification, which you can share on your LinkedIn profile.
6. EdX Project Management for Construction by Columbia University
Available on EdX from Columbia University, this course focuses on essential project management skills tailored for the construction industry. It’s a valuable resource for quantity surveyors aiming to navigate the complexities of large-scale projects and master the entire project lifecycle. The curriculum covers important areas such as scheduling, resource planning, and managing project risks. It is self-paced, has interactive discussions, practical assignments, and peer-based feedback, and provides a certificate in quantity surveying upon completion.
7. Online Msc Quantity Surveying by the University of Salford
The University of Salford offers an online MSc in quantity surveying, ideal for professionals seeking an advanced qualification in the field. Designed for international learners, this program provides in-depth knowledge of quantity surveying alongside important areas like construction law and project leadership. This 5D BIM quantity surveyor course explores advanced subjects including procurement strategies, risk analysis, and dispute resolution. It provides engaging online learning with collaborative projects and practical assignments.
Also Checkout: 7 Best Quantity Surveyor Online Courses in India
Why Choose Novatr:
Novatr’s BIM professional course for civil engineers aims to help quantity surveyors, particularly those in the USA, launch successful careers regardless of their experience level or technical expertise. Through hands-on projects and mentorship from the who’s who of the construction industry, this all-inclusive course empowers transportation engineers to land lucrative career opportunities. Here are top reasons why you should consider Novatr's program:
- Trusted by Thousands: Join 6,000+ BIM learners from over 45 countries who have successfully graduated from Novatr.
- Expert-Driven Curriculum: Designed through the analysis of 1,000+ job descriptions and rigorously vetted by 200+ global BIM experts.
- Globally Recognized Certifications: Earn certifications from both Autodesk and Novatr, showcasing your verified expertise.
- Proven Career Impact: Learners report an average salary hike of 48% after course completion.
- Loved by BIM Learners: We have 4.6+ average rating across platforms like Google and Trustpilot.
In Conclusion
If you're looking to break into the field of quantity surveying or want to improve your skills with hands-on learning, consider the BIM Professional Course for Civil Engineers by Novatr. It is one of the best programs that provides detailed insights into BIM processes using 10+ software. During the course, students learn how to solve problems through capstone projects. They receive guidance and feedback from the faculty, who are also practising professionals from leading construction firms. Novatr also helps students with job placements in their preferred companies.
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Frequently Asked Questions -
1. What does a quantity surveyor do?
Quantity surveyors manage all construction project costs, from initial estimates to final figures. They ensure projects are cost-effective, meet legal standards, and deliver value for money.
2. How to become a quantity surveyor?
To become a quantity surveyor, you typically need a degree in quantity surveying, construction management, or a related field. Gaining practical experience through internships or graduate trainee programs is also essential.
3. How much does a quantity surveyor earn?
In the US, quantity surveyors generally earn between $60,000 and $100,000 per year, depending on experience, qualifications, and location.
4. How to become a certified quantity surveyor?
Certification can be obtained through recognized bodies. Requirements usually include relevant education, work experience, and successful completion of an assessment process.
5. How do quantity surveyors use BIM?
Quantity surveyors use BIM for cost estimation, quantity take-offs, and project planning. BIM enhances accuracy, collaboration, and efficiency throughout the project lifecycle.
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