ATTENDING the launch of ATU's new quantidy surveying apprenticeship programme were (seated)Prof Graham Heaslip, ATU Dean of Faculty of Engineering & Computing, Frank Feighan TD, Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, Marian Harkin TD, Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President, Dr Ruth Quinn, Head of Civil Engineering and Construction Studies ATU and Dr Billy Bennett, ATU Registrar and Chief Academic Officer; (standing) Colin Birney, Barry Dempsey, Tomas Kelly, Alan Duffy, Clare Irwin, Trevor McSharry, James Lonergan, Gerard O'Toole, Ruth Comerford-Morris, Paul Sheridan and Con Ferry.

ATU launches new Quantity Surveying apprenticeship

The programmes are scheduled to commence in September 2026

Published: Tue 9 Jun 2026, 11:00 AM

ATLANTIC Technological University (ATU) has launched a new suite of quantity surveying apprenticeships.

Spanning levels six, seven and eight of the apprenticeship pathway, the programme will create a complete educational route for those seeking a career in one of Ireland’s most in-demand professions.

The new apprenticeships have been developed through a consortium-led approach, with strong collaboration between ATU, industry employers, professional bodies and public sector stakeholders.

This ensures that graduates are equipped with the skills, competencies and professional readiness required in a rapidly evolving construction sector.

“The development of a full quantity surveying apprenticeship pathway is a major step forward for both the profession and the wider built environment sector,” stated Dr Trevor McSharry, Head of the School of the Built Environment at ATU.

“It provides a structured and accessible route into a highly rewarding career, while ensuring that learning is directly aligned with industry needs.”

Innovative Delivery Model

The programme builds on the success of innovative apprenticeship delivery models already established within ATU, particularly in civil engineering, where blended and work-based learning approaches have proven highly effective in supporting both learners and employers.

Delivered through a flexible blended format, apprentices combine on-the-job experience with online lectures, practical learning and structured academic support. This “earn and learn” model allows participants to gain valuable industry experience while achieving recognised qualifications.

The programmes have been developed with direct input from employers and professional bodies, including the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI), who play a central role in supporting professional standards within the sector.

“This new apprenticeship pathway represents a significant opportunity to strengthen the talent pipeline for the profession,” commented James Lonergon, Director of Education with the SCSI and chair for the Quantity Surveying Consortium.

“It enables employers to develop skills from within their organisations while providing learners with meaningful, work-based experience from day one.”

The programmes were recently introduced at a national launch event at ATU Sligo, attended by Minister of State Marian Harkin, industry leaders and representatives from the SCSI, alongside academic staff and partners from across the construction industry.

Demand for qualified quantity surveyors continues to grow in Ireland, driven by increased activity in housing, infrastructure and commercial development. Recruitment is now underway for the first intake of apprentices, with programmes scheduled to commence in September 2026.