Building and Human Settlement Development

The Department of Building and Human Settlement Development at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University was established following the merger of the University of Port Elizabeth, Port Elizabeth Technikon, and Vista University in 2005. Initially part of the Department of Quantity Surveying and Building, we became an independent department in 2011, focusing on specialized education and training in the dynamic building and construction industry. We offer a range of qualifications designed to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in the industry. Our programs include the National Diploma in Building, BTech in Quantity Surveying and Construction Management, and the Bachelor of Human Settlement Development (BHSD), which was launched in 2014 with sponsorship from the National Minister of Human Settlements. Since 2016, the BHSD program has received subsidy support from the National Department of Higher Education and Training, preparing graduates to tackle contemporary challenges in human settlements. Our vision is to be the department of choice for career-oriented education and research in the Built Environment. We conduct proactive, formative teaching and research programs grounded in academic principles, fostering analysis, creativity, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. The National Diploma Building and BTech Quantity Surveying programs are accredited by the South African Council for the Quantity Surveying Profession, and the BTech Construction Management is accredited by the South African Council for Project and Construction Management. For detailed information on career fields, admission requirements, and curriculum, please explore our official Online Prospectus [https://bhsd.mandela.ac.za/]. Join us in shaping the future of the building and human settlements industry through innovative education and dedicated research.