on Quantity Surveying Competence
FEATURED PAPER
By Chukwuebuka Ibebuike Onyia, PhD
Department of Quantity Surveying
Enugu State University of Science and Technology
Enugu, Nigeria
Abstract
This study assesses the impact of advanced degrees (M.Sc and Ph.D) on quantity surveying (QS) professional competence in Enugu State, Nigeria. Using a mixed-methods design with structured questionnaires administered to 120 registered quantity surveyors, the study identifies key competency-enhancing skills, evaluates the relationship between advanced education and career advancement, and examines perceived benefits and challenges of postgraduate study. Results indicate that cost estimation, procurement, risk management, project management, and sustainability skills are significantly enhanced by advanced degrees (grand mean = 3.84). Regression analysis confirms a positive relationship between advanced education and career advancement (β = 1.069, R² = 0.026). Perceived benefits include enhanced career opportunities, increased earnings, broader skill sets, professional recognition, and technological competency (grand mean = 3.78). Primary challenges include financial constraints, time management, academic rigor, and limited access to resources (grand mean = 3.86). The study recommends institutional and governmental support for postgraduate education in quantity surveying.
Keywords: Advanced degree, quantity surveying, professional competence, career advancement, construction industry, Nigeria
- INTRODUCTION
The construction industry is a complex and dynamic field that requires professionals to possess high levels of technical and managerial skills (Arthur, 2019). Quantity surveyors (QS) play a critical role in the successful delivery of construction projects, being responsible for cost estimation, project financial management, risk management, and contract administration. Their competence is a key factor in ensuring the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of construction projects (Barley, 2020).
In recent years, the demand for advanced qualifications among construction professionals has grown substantially, driven by the increasing complexity of projects, advancements in construction technology, globalization, and the need for higher levels of expertise (Crant, 2023). An advanced degree—such as a Master’s or Doctorate—offers QS professionals opportunities to enhance their knowledge, skills, and competencies. However, the specific impact of such qualifications on day-to-day practice and professional competence remains incompletely understood (Dabara, 2020).
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How to cite this paper: Onyia, C. I. (2026). Assessing the Impact of Advanced Degree on Quantity Surveying Competence; PM World Journal, Vol. XV, Issue VII, July. Available online at https://pmworldjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/pmwj166-Jul2026-Onyia-Advanced-degree-iimpact-on-QS-competence.pdf
About the Author
Chukwebuka Ibebuike Onyia, PhD
Enugu, Nigeria
Chukwuebuka Ibebuike Onyia is an academia with Ph.D. in Construction Management. He is a Registered Quantity Surveyor and a lecturer in the Department of Quantity Surveying at Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Nigeria. He has quite a number of publications, focusing on project management, sustainable construction, ICT in construction management and infrastructure finance.
He actively supervises postgraduate research and participates in national and international conferences. Onyia, is a member of several professional bodies and is committed to applying research to solve real-life construction challenges while advancing academic excellence.
He can be contacted at Olisa Onye jerriwho@gmail.com or onyia.chukwuebuka@.esut.edu.ng
