Direct entry from high school
The surveying degree typically suits the all-round student. For those considering their Year 12 and Year 13 options at high school, the following guidelines may help.
It is recommended strongly that students take mathematics, physics and English to NCEA Level 2 and mathematics (with Calculus) to NCEA Level 3. While it is possible for a good student to follow almost any programme of study at NCEA Level 3, an ideal programme might consist of English, Maths with Calculus, Geography and Information Management. If you have not taken these subjects to NCEA Level 3 (particularly the maths), or have had difficulties during the year, we can almost always construct a first year programme at university that will make up the shortfall.
For those who do exceptionally well in Year 13 and/or who expect to be successful in Scholarship or some other recognized external examination, it may be possible to be exempt part of the first year of the BSurv degree. If this is a possibility, you should contact the School of Surveying as soon as possible (but preferably before you enroll and select your papers) to discuss your options.
Alternate paths
For those who have completed a National Diploma in Surveying (NDS) and who have in excess of one year of work experience, the University has historically given favourable consideration for direct entry to the 2nd year of the BSurv degree - providing the student has also completed mathematics papers equivalent to Otago University's MATH160 mathematics 1 paper. The following cross credits apply:
- SURV101 Introductory Surveying
- SURV102 Computational Methods in Surveying
- ENGL228 Writing for Professionals however we specifically cross credit SURV103 Communications - rather than ENGL228.
- MATH160 Mathematics 1 - if an appropriate substitute paper for MATH160 has been taken alongside the National Diploma.
- 54 points of additional unspecified points
It is stressed that prospective students in this category must have completed an equivalent paper/s to MATH160 Mathematics 1 prior to applying for direct entry to the professional years of the BSurv degree. It should also be noted that if a NDS student wishes to be credited for SURV298 introductory field camp, (thus enhancing the possibility of direct admission) they must compile a portfolio of work experience that will be assessed by the School. Please contact the School of Surveying for more information on both of these issues.