Prerequisites and cut-off scores for entry to university courses vary. Common prerequisites include mathematics and physics. Subjects like information technology, environmental studies, or law provide useful background.

Tertiary institutions in all states of Australia (excepting the ACT and the Northern Territory) offer degrees in surveying or geomatics. The courses normally takes four years, although some institutions also offer a Bachelor of Technology degree (3 years), and several offer five-year double-degree options, which may include science, engineering, information technology, commerce or arts.