Published: 20th April 2022.
Written by Jodie Magrath
If you’re hoping to advance your career in the building industry, studying a construction course is a great idea. Whether you’re just getting started in the field or planning to take on a position with more responsibility, a formal qualification can give you the knowledge and skills you need. There are a range of building and construction courses on offer, but if you’re not sure which qualification would be best for you, here are some of the most popular choices for further study:
Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building)
A Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building) is the qualification you need to become a licensed builder in Australia. This course will allow you to work on domestic premises and will prepare you for roles including building estimator, construction project manager and site foreman. The Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building) covers topics including understanding building codes and standards, managing safety on a construction site, reading and interpreting plans, applying site surveys, procuring construction materials and managing construction quality.
Certificate IV in Building Project Support
The Certificate IV in Building Project Support will give you the skills to provide estimates for a range of building and construction projects. This course will prepare you for roles where managing costings is essential such as building estimator, construction supervisor and site foreman. You’ll learn about risk management, structural principles, building codes, labour and materials schedules and handling tenders. The Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Estimating) also allows you to take electives such as compliance and contracts, small business or workplace health and safety.
Certificate IV in Civil Construction Supervision
If you’re planning to move into a supervisory role in the building industry, a Certificate IV in Civil Construction could be a good choice for you. This course will develop your leadership skills and cover topics including administering contracts, supervising civil works contractors and implementing a site safety plan. The Certificate IV in Civil Construction Supervision can lead to roles including construction supervisor or site foreman.
Diploma of Building and Construction (Building)
The Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) is an excellent choice for anyone looking to advance their career in the building industry. This course will allow you to progress to positions such as construction manager, site foreman, construction project manager or building estimator. You’ll cover a range of topics including construction management, supervising projects, structural principles, costing systems, tender documents and occupational health and safety.
Diploma of Building and Construction (Management)
If you want to develop your management skills within the construction industry, a Diploma of Building and Construction (Management) could be a great choice for you. This course covers a range of topics in project management such as scope, costs, quality and budgeting, but also looks at risk and safety management as well as managing your construction team. The Diploma of Building and Construction (Management) will prepare you for roles including construction manager, construction project manager, construction supervisor and site foreman.
Diploma of Civil Construction Management
A Diploma of Civil Construction Management is a great way to take your construction career to a new level. If you’d like to move into a management role, this course can give you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed. You’ll be prepared to take on a role such as construction manager with subjects including making cost estimates, producing rates schedules and handling environmental, safety and quality issues.
Advanced Diploma of Civil Construction
Make a greater impact on the building and construction sector with the Advanced Diploma of Civil Construction. This course is suitable for people with some experience in civil construction who want to be more involved in management-level policy decision making. The Advanced Diploma of Civil Construction will prepare you for roles such as a building contractor and you’ll have the opportunity to research legislation and safety standards and create real-world policies and risk management procedures.