A SHORTAGE of quantity surveyors, coupled with future Government house-building targets, presents graduate surveyors with more career opportunities than ever before, according to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

The institute estimates 4,000 extra quantity surveyors are needed to meet the Government's proposed housing targets.

The institution is advising graduates to look to the construction sector for a successful and rewarding career.

RICS claims surveyors are the best paid graduate professionals, earning an average income of £24,000 per annum three years after leaving university.

As well as opportunities arising from Government demands for new-build housing, RICS predicts the London Olympics will also create a surge in surveying projects.

The lack of quantity surveyors is blamed on the recession in the early 90s.

In recent years applications for quantity surveying courses have shot up by 69 per cent and RICS reports an increase in its accredited courses.

For more information on becoming a chartered surveyor, visit the website rics.org