Subjects overview
This program can be completed in 8 months (2 semesters)
This program can be completed in 8 months (2 semesters)
Students must complete the following ten credit points (10CP) of subjects.
Understanding Buildings provides an overview of the building construction process. Focused on detached housing development, this subject introduces the stakeholders and the physical, legislative, and cost factors affecting the development of a building. It investigates the parts of a building and their functions in detail, as well as the construction sequence and methods adopted. Construction terminology is examined and spatial awareness and drawing interpretation are practised.
Read moreStudents must choose fifty credit points (50CP) of the following subjects.
This subject provides students from non-engineering backgrounds with a basic understanding of building structures and soil mechanics. Fundamental structural engineering concepts such as calculation of forces and reactions, properties of common construction materials, bending moments and shear forces are introduced. Structural principles encompassing Strength, Serviceability and Stability are covered. Soil properties are examined, and foundation systems introduced.
Read moreManaging complex projects involves an understanding of the processes, techniques and tools used in project management. This subject provides an overview of the discipline by exploring these systematically using the internationally recognised Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) as a foundation. Project integration, scope, schedule, cost, risk, quality, resource, communications, procurement, stakeholder and, looking forward, environmental management reflect the generic knowledge areas that combine to support successful project implementation and social responsibility. A hands-on (learning by doing) approach is adopted within a flipped classroom delivery strategy to link theory with practice and deal with project change in real-time. A key outcome for students is being able to evaluate how project managers can determine whether they have been successful (in terms of planned versus actual performance) by ensuring that the project is delivered within budget, on time, as specified, and with no surprises. Students demonstrate competency in project integration management, in particular, by preparing a detailed project plan for an authentic case study with the help of a personal 'coach' to provide individual direction and advice throughout the process.
Read moreContracts play a vital role in nearly every aspect of construction. This subject provides essential knowledge of many legal aspects of construction contracts and practice in reading and interpreting contract documents. Using ‘real’ documents and scenarios, practical contract administration skills are developed that are directly transferable to the workplace. This subject breaks down much of the complexity often attributed to contracts and will allow the student to approach the administration of a construction contract with confidence.
Read moreThis subject provides an introduction to building services which include electrical, mechanical (HVAC), hydraulics, fire protection and vertical transportation services for medium to large scale, multi-storey buildings. Conventional and alternative systems will be explored with students able to identify, after this subject, the appropriate services to a particular building. Students will be required to undertake investigations of systems and buildings.
Read moreCommercial Construction and Engineering builds on the knowledge gained in Understanding Buildings and Structures & Materials. The environment and constraints impacting on a building construction project are analysed. Construction processes and materials common to many types of commercial building projects are examined. Processes for several ‘trades’ are discussed and construction techniques for significant components such as foundations and basements, concrete shafts and suspended floors. A range of significant plant and equipment is reviewed and other key site management issues considered.
Read moreThis subject covers an introduction to the current Standard Method of Measurement of Building Works used in Australia, methods of recording building dimensions, checking building plans and specifications and the measurement of necessary trades including concrete, masonry, finishes, carpentry and roofing.
Read moreStudents must choose twenty credit points (20CP) of the following subjects.
In this subject, students examine prescriptive and performance-based building regulation with particular emphasis on the National Construction Code (NCC). Related environmental legislation affecting building work is investigated. Other topics include statutory requirements for certification of building works, building approvals, other statutory controls related to buildings including health and safety.
Read moreIn this subject, building failure is investigated from several perspectives. Causes of failure such as water leakage, concrete cancer and corrosion of metals are identified and described; methods for remediating these failures are explored, and the processes and methods used to determine who is liable for failure are outlined. Legal aspects of building failure, including criminal, civil and contractual issues are discussed. Building failure is examined with respect to the National Construction Code. Case studies are used extensively to evaluate causes of, and determine remedies for building failures. Methods available to evaluate failures, and to determine their causes, are investigated.
Read moreProject participants need to understand the legal context within which they make decisions and perform actions, as frequently disputes can arise that require resolution and/or expert opinion. Project quality and environmental management provide a convenient instance where disputes and the need for expert testimony can arise, and are examined here in the context of project closure, including lessons learnt, standards, continuous improvement and client satisfaction. A general appreciation of international legal principles informed by case law forms an important backdrop to the subject. Practitioners must understand the limitations of their involvement in legal proceedings and be familiar with the conduct of procedures that commonly occur, including alternative dispute resolution such as arbitration and mediation. A moot court environment is used to demonstrate the experience of appearing in a formal hearing, and students are asked to also prepare or critique an expert report related to an example of ‘defective’ work or service that is the subject of a contractual dispute.
Read moreThis subject focuses on strategies for the refurbishment and retrofitting of existing buildings with a view to improving their environmental performance. It explores the issues of adaptive re-use of buildings, material selection, building performance and includes interior/tenancy fit out in the context of sustainable design and building practice. Relevant Australian and International evaluation and rating schemes are examined. Selected examples of best practice are analysed. The economics related to improving building performance are discussed.
Read moreThis subject will introduce students to the legal principles that apply to the ownership, use, and transfer of real property. The subject will develop an understanding of the sources of law, the various interests in land, real estate contracts, and the rights, duties, and obligations attaching to the ownership and use of real property. The subject provides students with a sound understanding of real property contracts, financial interests in land, and the remedies available to enforce interests in land. Students will develop a good understanding of the various legal interests in real property and prepare them for further studies in planning, valuation, property development, and investment.
Read moreThis subject provides an introduction to planning principles, processes and practices in Australia. It will review strategic and statutory planning processes with particular focus on key planning legislation, plan making and development assessment. The subject will examine planning at different scales from global to local area planning. The subject will provide an overview of strategic land use planning, including smart cities and sustainable development, as well as governance mechanisms for the integration of land use and infrastructure. Students will learn to navigate a planning scheme to assist them in their chosen profession/s. Through practical exercises, students will also develop skills in putting together planning applications as well as understanding development assessment processes.
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Take the guess work out of planning your study schedule. Your program's study plan has been carefully curated to provide a clear guide on the sequential subjects to be studied in each semester of your program. Your study plan is designed around connected subject themes to equip you with the fundamental knowledge required as you progress through your course.