Background information
On 1 January 2005 the University of Port Elizabeth (UPE), the Port Elizabeth Technikon (PET) and Vista University merged to form the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. Following from this, the Department of Quantity Surveying (UPE) and the Department of Building (PET) merged to form the Department of Building and Quantity Surveying. After re-structuring the department at the end of 2011, the department was split into two departments, namely the 'Department of Quantity Surveying' and the 'Department of Building and Human Settlement Development'. In the Department of Building and Human Settlement Development there are six full-time and three part-time staff members presenting the National Diploma Building and BTech (Quantity Surveying and Construction Management) programmes.
Building
The building and construction industry is a dynamic industry with many opportunities for self-motivating and dedicated hard working people. The industry is becoming more techinically sophisticated and computerised which has resulted in a growing demand for suitable trained proffesionals. The environment demands that the professional managers have specialised skills with regard to the latest construction methods and techniques being applied throughout the world. in modern day construction emphasis is being placed on professional people having the necessary skills to deliver a quality product to the clients.
Human Settlements Devlopment
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University will offer the new degree programme, Bachelor of Human Settlements Development (BHSD), from 2014. This degree is sponsored by the National Minister of Human Settlements through the Chair for Human Settlements Development and Management. From 2016 the programme will earn subsidy from the National Department of Higher Education and Training.
Vision
Our vision is to be the department of choice for career-orientated education and research in the Built Environment
Mission
The mission of the Department is to conduct a pro-active, formative, interactive teaching, learning and research programme founded on academic/scientific principles which include an appropriate practical component, to encourage analysis, creativity and the development of decision-making and problem-solving skills.
Accreditation
The National Diploma Building and the BTech Quantity Surveying degree programmes are accredited by the South African Council for the Quantity Surveying Profession. The BTech Construction Management is accredited by the South African Council for Project and Construction Management.