OverviewAbout this course

    The Diploma of Surveying at TAFE NSW refines your surveying skills and knowledge and prepares you for leadership roles in the surveying and spatial information services sector.In this practical, industry-informed course, you will develop the skills you need to contribute to data collection, data enquiry, design and drafting of survey, engineering, environmental, cartographic and cadastral maps and plans.You will learn how to perform precise measurements and use specialised surveying equipment, analyse designs, data sets and plans, and present the results to meet the standards required in survey practice.

    OutcomesWhat you'll gain

    Learn new skills

    Through a mix of theory and practical coursework, learn to: 

    • Plan spatial data collection
    • Conduct GNSS surveys
    • Conduct engineering surveys
    • Perform advanced surveying computations
    • Conduct geodetic surveys
    • Perform geodetic surveying computations
    • Design basic engineering structures

    Gain practical experience

    Build your experience and get practical skills in: 

    • Collect, store, quality-assure and analyse surveying data
    • Use and maintain surveying equipment
    • Use GNSS and Remote Pilot Aircraft System (RPAS) technology
    • Use Computer-Aided Drawing (CAD) and Geographic Information System (GIS) software

    Develop your professional confidence

    Develop the qualities you need to get ahead in this industry:

    • Conflict resolution
    • Mathematical talent
    • Excellent communication
    • Excellent problem solving abilities
    • Supervisory and leadership skills
    • Attention to detail

    Career pathways

    This qualification could help you prepare for roles like:

    • Surveying Technician

    SuitabilityInternational entry requirements

    At TAFE NSW each course has entry requirements. These help us to make sure that your course choice is right for you and help determine your suitability for a course. We want you to be confident in your decision and successful in your studies.

    Fees and locationsStarting dates, course fees and locations

    As an international student, you can choose from a range of different courses, offered at various locations. Experience vibrant spaces, libraries, cafes and gyms, as well as places to make friends and socialise with other students.

    Additional costs

    Additional costs for uniforms, equipment, textbooks and materials (if applicable) range from $300 - $1,000 AUD per course.

    Structure and unitsWhat you will study

    At the start of your course, you will receive your timetable. You will need to study all core units and a range of additional units.


    To achieve this qualification, competency must be demonstrated in 16 units of competency consisting of: 8 core units and 8 elective units.

    Core units are the required units that you must complete.

    • Conduct GNSS surveysCPPSSI5047

    • Conduct engineering surveysCPPSSI5048

    • Perform complex surveying computationsCPPSSI5053

    • Perform geodetic surveying computationsCPPSSI5054

    • Conduct precision surveysCPPSSI5057

    • Conduct geodetic surveysCPPSSI5058

    • Survey subsurface utility informationCPPSSI5061

    • Design basic engineering structuresCPPSSI5065

    PathwaysContinue your studies

    At TAFE NSW, you can develop your skills or build your expertise by studying a single course. You can also continue your studies with one of the following pathway options:


    Vocational study pathway

    Enrol in a range of TAFE NSW courses designed to help you kick-start your career and education goals. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    TAFE NSW degree pathway

    From certificates to diplomas, to a TAFE NSW degree, continue your studies with us to help build your success. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    TAFE NSW - university partnership pathways

    TAFE NSW has partnerships with a number of Australian universities. These universities offer guaranteed entry and credit transfer to eligible students. How much credit you are eligible for varies depending on the course and university you choose. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    Other university pathways

    You may gain entry to another university using your TAFE NSW qualifications. Acceptance and the amount of credit transfer may vary depending on the university and course studies. Check your credit eligibility.


    Keep learning with TAFE NSW

    Whatever your career ambitions, we will help you get there with a range of courses to develop your skills, build your knowledge and prepare you for work.

    TAFE NSW is here to create exceptional learner experiences and to support you on your study journey to make sure you achieve your goals.

    Explore your study options across a range of disciplines and talk to your TAFE NSW Education Agent or contact us.

    You are able to package two or more TAFE NSW courses together. This means you can plan your studies to achieve your career goals. When you apply for a TAFE NSW vocational pathway, you can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    ServicesCampus facilities and support services

    TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the resources, counselling and facilities to support you while you are studying.

    We offer a range of support services including: 

    • TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
    • TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support
    • TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service
    • Smarthinking - online access to a tutor
    • LinkedIn Learning - an online resource that offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills

    We're here to help

    If you have more questions about your course choice or study plans contact us today.

    Contact TAFE NSW International