Bachelor of Applied Science (Surveying) (Honours)

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Bachelor of Applied Science (Surveying) (Honours)

UNDERGRADUATE

Utilise practical skills and advanced mathematics to pursue a highly technical career in surveying, and let the world be your office. 

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Student type:
Mode of study:
On campus
Entry score:

ATAR 69.60*

Duration:
Full-time 4 years
Fees:

Commonwealth supported places

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City
Mode of study:
On campus
Entry score:

ATAR 69.60

Duration:
Full-time 4 years
Fees:

AU$36,480 (2022 annual)

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City

Overview

Surveyors use advanced equipment and specialised software to determine the accurate position of features.

These include:

  • a thorough knowledge of algebra, basic calculus, geometry, and trigonometry
  • the laws that deal with surveys, property, and contracts
  • the ability to use delicate instruments with accuracy and precision.

Surveyors use advanced equipment and specialised software to determine the accurate position of features. These include:

  • robotic laser instruments to observe and record surveys
  • light beams to electronically measure distance
  • satellite positioning technology (GPS) to fix positions.

Surveying is an exciting career often involving travel with a mix of outdoor and indoor work. Opportunities are forecast to keep growing with a current shortage of qualified professionals.

RMIT offers the only undergraduate surveying degree in Victoria. It is accredited with local and international surveying organisations and thoroughly prepares you to enter the profession.

Two students in field

Camp Jungai

For over 30 years RMIT second and third year Surveying students have travelled to the Rubicon Valley in regional Victoria to gain intensive practical experience.

Details

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This degree strongly links theory and practice. Most subjects incorporate extensive practical work to build skills as well as knowledge.

For example, you'll undertake an exercise based at the Bundoora campus. You'll survey an area of the park, then model, design, and illustrate an amphitheatre to suit the local environment.

You’ll carry out a final-year research project that is industry approved and reflects current best practice.

You’ll also complete 40 days of work experience, usually in the form of paid employment during vacation periods or as a part-time employee (we can sometimes assist you to find a placement).

Global work, exchange and study experiences

RMIT offers a range of opportunities for our students to study abroad through global work, exchange and study experiences with over 165 partner universities worldwide.

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.

Early in the degree, you’ll study the fundamentals of measurement science, cartography, and spatial information science (GIS). Other required skills in mathematics, statistics, and physics are also covered.

Later, more specialised studies are offered in geodesy, map projections, spatial analysis, remote sensing, image analysis, and professional practice.

Specialised studies in cadastral and engineering surveying, GPS, and advanced adjustment methods are central components of the degree.

Practical work

Field camps are held in the second and third years to reinforce theoretical learning and allow you to exercise your knowledge of real-world problems.

Practical work is based on industry-standard software and hardware, the same tools you will find in the workplace. You will have ample opportunities to develop skills and experience with these tools.

Learning support

Learning support includes a first-year transition program, academic coordinators for each year level, and an active Geospatial Science Student Association. There is also a dedicated field station at Yarra Bend Park to support practical work.

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

Bachelor of Applied Science (Surveying) (Honours)
Program code: BH116
Title
Location
Duration
Plan code
CRICOS
Bachelor of Applied Science (Surveying) (Honours)
City Campus
4 years full time (8 semesters)
BH116
084350E
Location
City Campus
Duration
4 years full time (8 semesters)
Plan code
BH116
CRICOS
084350E
View plan

VTAC Code

If you are eligible to apply via VTAC, copy and paste the below code into VTAC search.

  • Plan BH116 - 3200333281

Please ensure that you have checked the admissions requirements and apply page before applying.

VTAC Code

If you are eligible to apply via VTAC, copy and paste the below code into VTAC search.

  • Plan BH116 - 3200333283

Please ensure that you have checked the admissions requirements and apply page before applying.

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

Career

Surveyors play a major role in land development, from the planning and design of land subdivision, through to the final construction of roads, utilities, and landscape planning.

They also play an important part in the construction industry providing detailed design plans for the subsequent construction of roads, freeways, tunnels, bridges, pipelines, and high-rise buildings.

Some surveyors work with mining companies on exploration, mining development, and mining operations.

Other surveyors specialise in hydrographical surveys, working with automated position and sounding equipment on survey ships to map the ocean floor.

You may be employed in small or medium-sized consultancy businesses in the private sector or in government agencies.

Many graduates enter a Professional Training Agreement and become licensed surveyors.

You can find out more about surveying by visiting:

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The degree is externally accredited through the Surveyors Registration Board of Victoria. This means that the Board has identified it as one of the qualifications that leads to registration as a Licensed Surveyor in Victoria.

The Board is also a member of the Council of Reciprocating Surveyors Boards of Australia and New Zealand.  Since 1892 the Council has been overseeing the reciprocal recognition of surveyor licensing between Australian States and Territories and New Zealand.

Graduates are eligible to apply for membership of The Institution of Surveyors Victoria and the Surveying and Spatial Sciences Institute.

The degree has international accreditation with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors which also entitles graduates to membership of that Institute.

The degree is also accredited by the Land Surveyors Board of Malaysia as a recognised qualification.

Admissions

You must have successfully completed an Australian Year 12 (or equivalent qualification).

Prerequisites

Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 30 in English (EAL) or at least 25 in English other than EAL and units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in one of Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics, or equivalent studies.

Rankings and adjustment factors

Entry to this program is competitive. Eligible applicants are ranked and selected in order of merit based on their academic achievement plus any adjustment factors.

Adjustment factors include equity access schemes and/or subject adjustments.

We will consider your entire academic record to determine your eligibility for entry. The highest level of education you have previously completed will usually determine how you are ranked.

Selection criteria by applicant type

Please select the highest level of education you have or will be completing in order to find out the selection criteria that applies to you, in addition to meeting the above entry requirements.

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Applicants whose highest level of education is recent secondary education are not eligible to apply for this program in the July/midyear intake.

Full-time study commencing in the Midyear/July intake is only available to applicants who:

  • Are current BH117 or BH101GS students transferring to BH116; or
  • Are previous BH116 students returning to study; or
  • Have completed the Advanced Diploma of Surveying (C6156); or
  • Are transferring from an equivalent surveying program an another Australian university and have completed the appropriate surveying or spatial courses.

If you do not meet any of the above requirements, you may still apply but are only eligible to study on a part-time basis. Note that this will extend the duration of the program.

You may be eligible for the following adjustment factors:

Equity access schemes

  • Equity access schemes take into account personal information and location, difficult circumstances, disadvantaged financial background and disability or medical condition that may have impacted on an applicant’s most recent academic performance. 
  • This program has been recognised as being under-represented by female applicants. Additional adjustment factors may apply to those applying to category 1 of the Special Entry Access Scheme or RMIT access application.
  • Find out more about the eligibility requirements for each Special Entry Access Scheme and RMIT access categories.
  • If you are applying through VTAC you should apply for the Special Entry Access Scheme.
  • If you are applying directly to RMIT you should apply for RMIT Access. The system will prompt you to do this during your application.

Elite Athlete Program

  • The RMIT Elite Athlete Program supports eligible elite and emerging athletes to achieve sporting and academic excellence, allowing students to balance the demands of both their studies and their athletic responsibilities.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

  • The Indigenous Access Program supports your application to RMIT through an informal interview process where you will receive help from the Ngarara Willim Centre. Additional consideration will be given if you have relevant life, work, education or training experience.

Full-time study commencing in the Midyear/July intake is only available to applicants who:

  • Are current BH117 or BH101GS students transferring to BH116; or
  • Are previous BH116 students returning to study; or
  • Have completed the Advanced Diploma of Surveying (C6156); or
  • Are transferring from an equivalent surveying program an another Australian university and have completed the appropriate surveying or spatial courses.

If you do not meet any of the above requirements, you may still apply but are only eligible to study on a part-time basis. Note that this will extend the duration of the program.

Personal statement

If you have been excluded from a program due to academic progress you are encouraged to submit a personal statement outlining the strategies you will adopt to ensure academic success.

If you are applying to RMIT through VTAC you can complete and submit the VTAC personal statement via your online VTAC account.

If you are applying direct to RMIT you can upload your completed personal statement via your online direct application.

You may be eligible for the following adjustment factors:

Equity access schemes

  • Equity access schemes take into account personal information and location, difficult circumstances, disadvantaged financial background and disability or medical condition that may have impacted on an applicant’s most recent academic performance. 
  • This program has been recognised as being under-represented by female applicants. Additional adjustment factors may apply to those applying to category 1 of the Special Entry Access Scheme or RMIT access application.
  • Find out more about the eligibility requirements for each Special Entry Access Scheme and RMIT access categories.
  • If you are applying through VTAC you should apply for the Special Entry Access Scheme.
  • If you are applying directly to RMIT you should apply for RMIT Access. The system will prompt you to do this during your application.

Elite Athlete Program

  • The RMIT Elite Athlete Program supports eligible elite and emerging athletes to achieve sporting and academic excellence, allowing students to balance the demands of both their studies and their athletic responsibilities.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

  • The Indigenous Access Program supports your application to RMIT through an informal interview process where you will receive help from the Ngarara Willim Centre. Additional consideration will be given if you have relevant life, work, education or training experience.

Applicants whose highest level of education is work and life experience are not eligible to apply for this program in the July/midyear intake.

Additional information

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View the ATAR profile and selection rank from students offered a place into this program wholly or partly on the basis of ATAR in the most relevant recent intake period.

The student profile provides insight into the likely peer group for this program.

*ATAR refers to the lowest selection rank to which an offer was made (including consideration of any adjustments) for current and recent Year 12 applicants.

RMIT is committed to providing transparency to the admissions process. In line with this commitment, we provide you with information that will help in making informed choices about your undergraduate study options. Find out more about RMIT’s commitment to admissions transparency.

You need to satisfy all of the following requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

You must have successfully completed an Australian Year 12 or an equivalent senior secondary school qualification with a minimum average of 65% (see calculator below).

Equivalent qualifications may also include completion of the RMIT Foundation Studies program or a recognised post secondary diploma in the relevant discipline with the required grades.

Meeting the minimum academic requirements does not guarantee entry. Your application will still need to be assessed and accepted.

Entry score calculator
Minimum Score Required

Don’t meet the requirements?

Higher Mathematics; or Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) Units 3 and 4 in Mathematical Methods (CAS) or Specialist Mathematics, with a study score of at least 20.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
  • TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus Certificate at RMIT English Worldwide.

Pathways

Animated character in front of RMIT pixel, with a flying degree above their head

Understanding pathways

Undertaking a certificate, diploma, advanced diploma or associate degree can help you meet the entry requirements for your preferred course. These qualifications often provide credit, reducing the duration of your bachelor degree.

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This course offers pathway options. If you don’t meet the entry requirements, a formal pathway might be your way in.

When you successfully complete this program, you may be eligible for entry into an RMIT postgraduate program or RMIT Masters by Research or Doctoral (PhD) program.

Credit, recognition of prior learning, professional experience and accreditation from a professional body can reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant experience.

Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.

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You can gain entry to this degree from RMIT Foundation Studies or a range of vocational study programs.

Credit may reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant study experience.

When you are submitting an application, please indicate that you want to be considered for credit and provide detailed course syllabus (also known as course outline), outlining volume of learning, course content and weekly topics, learning objectives/outcomes, assessment types and their weightings, and reference to the learning resources such as prescribed textbooks and recommended readings.

When you successfully complete this program, you may be eligible for entry into an RMIT postgraduate program or RMIT Masters by Research or Doctoral (PhD) program.

Fees

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2022 indicative fees

In 2022, the annual student contribution amount (tuition fee) you will pay for a standard year of full-time study is between AU$3,985 to AU$14,630*.

Additional expenses

  • Student services and amenities fee (SSAF): AU$315 maximum fee for 2022.
  • Other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment.

Annual fee adjustment

Amounts quoted are indicative fees per annum, and are based on a standard year of full-time study (96 credit points). A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load.

Fees are adjusted on an annual basis and these fees should only be used as a guide.

Defer your payment

You may be eligible to apply for a HECS-HELP loan, which can be used to defer payment of up to the full amount of your student contribution fees. You may also be eligible to apply to defer payment of your SSAF through the SA-HELP loan scheme.

Learn more about fees for undergraduate study.

Paying your fees and applying for refunds

For information on how to pay your fees or how to apply for a refund, please see Paying your fees and applying for refunds.

New government eligibility rules in 2022 - low completion rates

From 2022, there are new government rules about eligibility for higher education student funding as part of the Australian Government’s Job-ready Graduates legislation. If you're starting a program in or after 2022 and are enrolled in a Commonwealth supported place (CSP) or have a HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP loan, these changes affect you. For details, please see Low completion rate and government funding.

If you are offered a Commonwealth supported place, your tuition fees are subsidised by the Australian Government.

Your share of the fee (student contribution) is set on an annual basis by the government and is determined by the discipline areas (bands) of your individual enrolled courses, not the overall program.

How much can I expect to pay for my Commonwealth supported place?

The Australian Government has introduced changes to university funding and student contribution fees under its Job-ready Graduates Package. 

The fees in the table below apply to students commencing their program in 2022. Fees for continuing students are available at fees for Commonwealth supported students.

Each course (subject) falls into a band. The band determines the student contribution amount for the course.

Amounts listed in the table below are based on a standard, full-time study load (96 credit points per year) with all courses in the same band. A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load or for enrolment in courses (subjects) from a combination of bands.

You can learn how to calculate your exact tuition fees for units from different bands at Fees for Commonwealth supported students.

Maximum student contribution amount for Commonwealth supported places in 2022 for commencing students

Student contribution band by course (subject)

Maximum annual student contribution amount (per EFTSL) in 2022
Education, Postgraduate Clinical Psychology, English, Mathematics, Statistics, Nursing, Indigenous and Foreign Languages, Agriculture $3,985 per standard year
$498 per standard (12 credit point) course
Allied Health, Other Health, Built Environment, Computing, Visual and Performing Arts, Professional Pathway Psychology, Professional Pathway Social Work, Engineering, Surveying, Environmental Studies, Science, Pathology $8,021 per standard year
$1,002 per standard (12 credit point) course
Dentistry, Medicine, Veterinary Science $11,401 per standard year
$1,425 per standard (12 credit point) course
Law, Accounting, Administration, Economics, Commerce, Communications, Society and Culture $14,630 per standard year
$1,828 per standard (12 credit point) course

HECS-HELP Loans

The Australian Government provides financial assistance via the HECS-HELP loan scheme, which allows eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) to defer payment of up to the full amount of their student contribution.

SA-HELP Loans

You may be eligible to apply to defer payment of the Student services and amenities fee (SSAF) through the SA-HELP loan scheme. If you use SA-HELP, the amount will be added to your accumulated HELP debt.

How does a HELP loan work?

If your FEE-HELP and/or SA-HELP loan application is successful, the Australian Government will pay RMIT, on your behalf, up to 100% of your fees. This amount will become part of your accumulated HELP debt.

You only start repaying your accumulated HELP debt to the Australian Government once you earn above the minimum income threshold for repayment, which is set each year by the Australian Government (this also applies if you are still studying). The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will calculate your compulsory repayment for the year and include this on your income tax notice.

For more information about loan repayment options see Commonwealth assistance (HELP loans) or Study Assist.

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2022 is $315.

For more information about calculating your actual SSAF see Paying SSAF.

You may also be required to purchase other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from program to program.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

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The annual tuition fee for 2022 is AU$36,480.

The total indicative tuition fee for 2022 commencement is AU$151,680.

In addition to tuition fees you also need to pay for:

You also need to account for your living expenses. Estimate the cost of living in Melbourne.

Find out more details about how fees are calculated and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a refund as a continuing international student.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information?

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

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Acknowledgement of country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

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aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

More information