Associate Degree of Surveying – USQ Toowoomba

Associate Degree Civil Engineering Full Time

Associate Degree of Surveying

at University of Southern Queensland · Toowoomba, Queensland

CRICOS course code

053510F

CRICOS provider code

00244B

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

2 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$74,160 total

Per year

A$37,080/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Associate Degree of Surveying at the University of Southern Queensland introduces students to key concepts and practical skills needed for a surveying career in Australia. Delivered over two years in Toowoomba, this course covers topics such as land and engineering surveying, mapping, spatial science, and surveying law and regulations. Students learn to use professional equipment and digital technologies that are common in the surveying industry.

This qualification is structured in units of study, with each unit contributing credit points towards graduation. In Australia, an associate degree is recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), sitting below a bachelor's degree. The degree usually blends theoretical classes with hands-on experience, including work-integrated learning where relevant. Students may have opportunities to undertake fieldwork, giving them practical exposure to surveying tasks.

The course suits those interested in geography, civil engineering, or working outdoors with technology. Skills gained include conducting surveys, interpreting spatial data, using geographic information systems (GIS), and understanding land use regulations. Communication and problem-solving are emphasised throughout the course to prepare graduates for a technical role in industry.

Links with Australian industry and professional practice are a feature of surveying degrees. Surveying graduates are in demand across construction, infrastructure, resources, and land development projects. Students on a Student visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying, and may be eligible to apply for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) once they finish. Applicants should check the official University of Southern Queensland website for the most up-to-date information on course requirements and structure.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Surveying technician
Engineering surveyor assistant
Cadastral survey assistant
Spatial science technician
Roles with state or local government in land management
Support positions in construction, mining, and civil infrastructure projects

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Associate Degree of Surveying at University of Southern Queensland?

It typically takes 2 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$74,160 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Surveying technicianEngineering surveyor assistantCadastral survey assistantSpatial science technicianRoles with state or local government in land managementSupport positions in construction, mining, and civil infrastructure projects

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