Published: 16th February 2022.
Written by Jodie Magrath

A Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) is the qualification you need to boost your career in this booming industry. Whether you plan to work as a builder, foreman or building inspector or in a specialist role such as estimating or contract preparation, this course will give you the skills you need to succeed. The Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) will develop your skills in a range of project management areas and give you the knowledge required to perform your role in various construction settings.

The Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) covers a range of topics relevant to modern construction practices. You’ll explore subjects from structural building principles to current workplace health and safety principles. The Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) also looks at strategies for monitoring costing systems, preparing tender documentation and selecting building contractors.

A Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) is an ideal course of study for the following careers:

Construction Manager

A Construction Manager coordinates work on a building or construction project. You’ll ensure the job is progressing on time and staying within a budget. Construction Managers deal with any problems that arise and make sure work is completed to a high standard. You’ll ensure equipment and materials are ready when needed and supervise staff and contractors.

Building Estimator

A Building Estimator provides projected costs for a range of building and construction projects. You’ll look at plans and quotes and consider things like labour, materials and equipment hire. Building Estimators may meet with other industry professionals like surveyors and project managers to determine building timeframes and other factors such as construction legislation and weather.

Site Foreman

A Site Foreman oversees all work taking place on a building site. You’ll supervise staff and contractors and make sure safety requirements are being met. A Site Foreman checks on the progress of construction projects and ensures work is meeting all relevant standards and legislation. You may have to organise equipment and materials when required.

Higher education pathways

A Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) is a great way to advance your career in the building industry. You might decide to specialise your skills with a Certificate IV in Building Project Support (Estimator) or a Diploma of Project Management (Specialising in Construction). You could also consider a Graduate Certificate in CAD and Computational Techniques.

If you choose to advance your studies, you could enrol in a university degree such as a Bachelor of Construction Management or a Bachelor of Urban Development. This will increase your knowledge of the building and construction industry and allow you to take on a role with more responsibility. You may be able to use a Diploma of Building and Construction (Building) as a pathway to these courses.

Getting started

If you’re considering enrolling in a Diploma of Building and Construction (Building), it’s important you find out information from a range of course providers. You’ll need to gather details on the duration of the course, costs, any prerequisites and the content the course will cover. Providers usually vary in the way they deliver their courses, but once you have all the information you can compare details and find the course that is most suitable for your needs.