The Certified Quantity Surveying Specialist (CQSS) certification is a prestigious professional credential designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills required to excel in the field of quantity surveying and construction cost management. As global construction activities expand and projects become increasingly complex, the need for qualified professionals who can manage costs, contracts, and commercial risks has never been more critical. The CQSS program is meticulously structured to provide comprehensive training in cost planning, procurement strategies, contract administration, and legal compliance, ensuring participants are well-equipped to support successful project delivery across the construction lifecycle.

Quantity surveying plays a vital role in balancing financial efficiency with quality and compliance in construction. From the early stages of cost estimation and feasibility analysis to the final phases of project delivery and settlement, quantity surveyors are central to ensuring projects are delivered within budget and according to contractual obligations. The CQSS program delves into core surveying methodologies, practical techniques for value engineering, and strategies to optimize resources while minimizing risks. Participants will gain a deep understanding of how to manage commercial functions across varying scales of construction, infrastructure, and property development projects.

Certification Program Objectives:

Upon completing the Certified Quantity Surveying Specialist (CQSS) program, participants will be able to:

• Apply Quantity Surveying Principles: Understand the fundamental principles, standards, and roles of quantity surveyors within the construction industry.
• Estimate Costs and Budgets Accurately: Learn to perform detailed cost estimations, develop budgets, and conduct financial forecasting for construction projects.
• Manage Procurement and Contracts: Gain expertise in selecting procurement strategies, drafting and administering contracts, and resolving contractual disputes effectively.
• Plan and Control Projects: Acquire tools to support construction planning, scheduling, and progress monitoring to maintain cost and time control.
• Implement Value Engineering Techniques: Apply systematic approaches to maximize project value through cost reduction and function enhancement without compromising quality.
• Ensure Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Understand the construction law, contract law, health and safety legislation, and other regulatory requirements relevant to the industry.

Certification Eligibility Criteria:

To apply for certification from The American Institute of Business and Management (AIBM) and its allied institutions, candidates must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution

And/or

• 2 to 5 years of relevant work experience in the related professional field.

Note: Applicants who do not hold a Bachelor’s degree but possess exceptional professional experience and hold significant positions within their organizations in a relevant field may also be considered for certification on a case-by-case basis, subject to the approval of the AIBM evaluation committee.

Certifying Examination:

• To be certified as CQSS, student should take up a 1.5 hours online exam conducted by AIBM.
• The qualifying exam would consist of 50 multiple choice questions, testing core certification modules.
• Professionals with relevant experience and other qualifying criteria may be exempted from the examination.

Certification Modules:

• Module 1: Quantity Surveying Principles and Practices
• Module 2: Cost Estimation and Budgeting
• Module 3: Procurement and Contract Management
• Module 4: Project Planning and Control
• Module 5: Value Engineering and Cost Optimization
• Module 6: Legal and Regulatory Frameworks in Construction

* The modules of the certification are constantly updated and are subject to change.

Who Should Do This Certification:

The CQSS certification is ideal for professionals involved in construction cost control, contract management, and financial planning of projects. It is particularly beneficial for:

• Quantity Surveyors: Practicing quantity surveyors seeking to formalize their knowledge or advance their qualifications will benefit from up-to-date methodologies and globally relevant frameworks.
• Cost Engineers and Estimators: Professionals responsible for developing cost estimates and budgets will gain deeper analytical and technical skills to enhance cost predictability and control.
• Project and Construction Managers: Individuals overseeing the full project lifecycle can enhance their commercial and contractual capabilities to ensure projects are delivered within scope, budget, and time constraints.
• Procurement Specialists and Contract Administrators: Those managing tenders, supplier negotiations, and contract documentation will benefit from practical knowledge of procurement methods and legal considerations.
• Civil Engineers and Site Managers: Engineering professionals involved in project implementation can use this certification to understand the financial implications of design and execution choices.
• Developers and Real Estate Professionals: Stakeholders in property and infrastructure development can use the CQSS program to improve their decision-making and risk management in project financing and delivery.
• Consultants and Advisors: Independent professionals providing quantity surveying or project advisory services can leverage the CQSS credential to build trust and deliver higher-value outcomes for clients.
• Regulatory and Government Officers: Public sector personnel responsible for oversight, compliance, or funding approvals of infrastructure projects can benefit from an in-depth understanding of cost and contract frameworks.

The CQSS certification is designed for professionals across the construction, engineering, and real estate sectors who aspire to lead in cost management, contractual excellence, and value-driven project delivery. It supports career advancement, enhances professional credibility, and contributes to stronger, more sustainable construction outcomes.