Construction managers ensure project success by hiring and supervising workers and communicating with clients. They also set and adhere to budgets.
Managers on construction sites oversee personnel and materials, and they act as the point of contact for clients. A manager’s expertise impacts a project’s success. Job titles for these professionals can include foreman, superintendent, and project manager. A degree in construction management provides the essential knowledge and skills these managers need.
Students with no previous college experience usually complete their construction management bachelor’s program in four years. Associate degree-holders typically graduate within two years. Admission requirements generally include a high school diploma or the equivalent and standardized test scores.
Figuring out where to apply? These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online degrees. Consider one of these accredited programs, and discover their value today.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment for construction managers to increase 8% from 2019 to 2029, about double the average projected growth for all occupations. According to the BLS, construction managers earn a median annual salary of $95,260.
Rank | School | |
---|---|---|
1 | Drexel University | Philadelphia, PA |
2 | University of Washington | Seattle, WA |
3 | Ohio Northern University | Ada, OH |
4 | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | Blacksburg, VA |
5 | University of Denver | Denver, CO |
6 | University of Minnesota-Twin Cities | Minneapolis, MN |
7 | Brigham Young University | Provo, UT |
8 | Michigan Technological University | Houghton, MI |
9 | Clemson University | Clemson, SC |
10 | Milwaukee School of Engineering | Milwaukee, WI |
Construction managers order materials, hire subcontractors, and oversee worksites. These professionals also create work schedules and act as an intermediary between onsite workers and clients. Construction managers often travel and work both outdoors and in office settings.
Successful construction managers possess skills in accounting, communication, and project and time management. Academic programs in the field often require cooperative education or internship experiences to help learners develop abilities in these areas. While working at a job site under a trained construction manager, degree-seekers gain practical experience and receive feedback.
Students should research education requirements for construction management careers. Certain positions require specific courses or professional experience. To prepare for specialized roles, learners in construction management programs can concentrate in an area such as land development, heavy construction, or residential construction. Students can work with career counselors to choose a concentration that aligns with their goals.
Students researching construction management programs should ensure that each prospective institution holds accreditation. The U.S. Department of Education charters six regional accreditation agencies to evaluate postsecondary schools. Regional accreditation is the oldest and most prestigious type of institutional accreditation. Many employers and graduate programs only recognize degrees from regionally accredited schools.
Schools that offer online programs should also possess national accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). DEAC compares a school’s online and on-campus programs to ensure that both types of learners receive the same high-quality education. DEAC accreditation demonstrates that an institution’s online programs offer the same rigor and learning outcomes as its on-campus options.
Students can also look for construction management programs with field-specific accreditation. Private programmatic accreditation agencies each focus on a certain field or academic subject. Programmatic accreditation signifies that the program prepares learners to succeed in the discipline. The American Council for Construction Education (ACCE) awards programmatic accreditation to the top construction management programs.
Construction managers ensure project success by hiring and supervising workers and communicating with clients. They also set and adhere to budgets.
Learners typically complete construction management bachelor’s programs in four years. Associate degree-holders usually need two years. Degree completion time depends on learners’ enrollment status.
Construction managers need a college degree and professional experience. Job applicants should also possess communication, interpersonal, and accounting skills.
Construction managers earn a median salary that is higher than the national median for all occupations. Many managers work as independent contractors, who typically enjoy significant scheduling flexibility.
Admission requirements for construction management bachelor’s programs typically include a high school diploma or the equivalent. Applicants may need to submit FAFSA results to determine their eligibility for institutional financial aid.
Construction management students must typically maintain a minimum undergraduate GPA and meet their professors’ expectations. Undergraduate learners in the field must usually complete an internship or cooperative education experience during their junior or senior year.
Although curricula vary by construction management program, coursework helps learners develop skills necessary to succeed in the field. Students prepare to lead others on job sites, communicate with clients and stakeholders, and set short-term and long-term goals. Programs typically require major coursework and an internship experience. General education courses provide transferable skills and knowledge.
Many construction management programs include the five courses below. Since course titles and requirements vary by school, learners should contact their prospective institution for information about its construction management curriculum.
Construction managers may need a state-issued license to practice, especially if they manage projects on public land. Additionally, managers can increase their employability and salary potential by earning a professional certification from a private organization. Certification requirements typically include a degree, professional experience, and passing exam scores.
Recent college graduates with a degree in construction management can pursue this certification from the American Institute of Constructors (AIC). Candidates can purchase an exam study course from the AIC. The exam consists of 300 multiple-choice questions, which candidates complete during two four-hour sessions. Individuals with professional experience can qualify for an advanced certification from the AIC.
The Construction Management Association of America awards this credential to professionals with at least four years of experience. Candidates must pass an exam. Association members pay reduced certification and exam retake fees. Professionals must complete professional development requirements to qualify for recertification.
Construction managers in some states need a license to practice. Licensure requirements also depend on each construction project’s type and total cost. Aspiring construction managers should research their state’s licensure requirements and fees. Students can contact their school’s career advisors for help determining whether they should pursue licensure.
Undergraduate students can join professional organizations for construction management majors. Student members can often access scholarship opportunities, mentorship programs, and career resources. Learners may also receive industry publications detailing the latest job trends and management best practices.
College students can minimize debt by taking advantage of their school’s financial aid resources. Learners can also apply for private scholarships from nonprofits and businesses. Unlike loans, recipients do not repay scholarships. The list below includes a few of the scholarships available to construction management students. Learners should research each award’s requirements and deadlines.
Who Can Apply: CACP awards this scholarship to Chinese American undergraduate learners who are studying architecture or a construction-related field. Applicants need a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA and must submit two recommendation letters. Recipients must attend at least two CACP events, and students should apply by July 15.
Amount: $1,000-$3,000
Who Can Apply: Women in their freshman, sophomore, or junior year can apply. Candidates must be full-time students with a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Candidates must apply by mail by February 28. Scholarship recipients can reapply the following year as long as they still meet all requirements.
Amount: $500-$2,500
Who Can Apply: The American Galvanizers Association awards two scholarships each year to college students preparing for careers related to construction management. Applicants must submit an essay of 1,000-2,000 words. Candidates select from two prompts, both of which involve proposing a solution to a real-world construction problem.
Amount: $2,500
Philadelphia, PA
$$$$$
Drexel offers a rigorous bachelor's in construction management program. The interdisciplinary curriculum emphasizes structural behavior, written and verbal communication, and construction methods. Students can optionally complete an 18-credit concentration in real estate.
Online learners who need academic assistance can turn to the Center for Learning & Academic Success Services (CLASS) to sign up for virtual tutoring sessions. Specialized CLASS resources for students include downloadable time management, motivation, and learning plan guides. Degree-seekers can also review an in-depth guide detailing remote and hybrid learning tips.
The Drexel College of Engineering recommends that prospective students complete high school prerequisites in precalculus, physics, and chemistry. Transfer credit should reflect a minimum C grade. Full-time undergraduates pay a flat per-semester tuition rate.
Seattle, WA
$$$$$
UW's bachelor's degree in construction management provides learners with technical and managerial skills through courses that include construction accounting, electrical systems, and construction surveying. Degree-seekers develop these skills further during an internship the summer before their senior year.
Construction management students who need help maintaining their GPA can enroll in an academic support program to improve their grades and prepare for career success. The Career and Internship Center (CIC) hosts workshops covering interview preparation tips and life skills. The CIC also features jobs and internships on its website.
UW uses a separate application for enrolled students interested in construction management. Requirements include a strong undergraduate GPA and a personal statement. The College of Built Environments also considers degree-seekers' professional experience. UW awards numerous scholarships to incoming learners.
Ada, OH
$$$$$
Located in Ada, ONU features a bachelor's in construction management program with many experiential learning opportunities. The four-year curriculum features coursework on topics like principles of management, human resource management, and materials science. Degree-seekers also complete a senior-year capstone and internship experience.
The Student Success Center (SSC) helps students find tutors, research study-abroad opportunities, and access disability services. SSC also offers alumni networking events and posts career videos on its website. ONU's career resources help over 95% of graduates find a job soon after graduating.
ONU accepts the Common Application and became a test-optional school in late 2020. The university does not charge a higher tuition rate to out-of-state students. New learners who excelled in high school can earn up to $48,000 in automatic scholarships.
Blacksburg, VA
$$$$$
Virginia Tech's bachelor's in construction engineering and management program emphasizes calculus, geotechnical engineering, and construction estimating and scheduling. Degree-seekers can customize their education by selecting engineering and business electives. Learners stay in good academic standing by earning a minimum C- grade in all courses and maintaining a 2.0 or higher GPA.
New degree-seekers can visit Student Affairs to enroll in the resiliency workshop series and complete orientation. Upperclassmen can research and apply for construction management jobs by attending the annual Myers-Lawson School of Construction career fair in the fall.
Prospective students must submit recommendation letters and unofficial transcripts. Learners who live outside of Virginia pay more than double the in-state tuition rate. Construction management degree-seekers may qualify for one of more than a dozen departmental awards. Students must apply for scholarships by March 22.
Denver, CO
$$$$$
DU's bachelor's in construction management program emphasizes real estate and product management. Courses include real estate finance, construction building systems, and legal issues and risk management. The program features a concentration in construction project management.
The Daniels College of Business offers networking opportunities, a mentorship program, and over 130 webinars. The Pioneer Careers job board features local internship opportunities, allowing degree-seekers to enhance their resume before graduation.
Applicants must submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores, and recommendation letters. DU uses a minimum C- grade cutoff for transfer credit. Merit-based scholarships for incoming freshmen award up to $27,000 in tuition assistance, and all recipients enjoy a $3,000 discount on room and board.
Minneapolis, MN
$$$$$
UMN's bachelor's in construction management program features core courses in construction engineering, construction safety and loss control, and sustainability for construction management. The degree offers five concentrations, including facility management and residential construction. Students stay in good academic standing by maintaining a minimum 2.5 undergraduate GPA.
Graduates can work in roles such as field engineer, field project manager, and test shop technician. Learners can explore these and other opportunities through the Office of Career Services' (OCS) website. OCS also provides students with career assessments and tools.
Prospective students can apply for the fall or spring semester, but learners cannot start the construction management major until they complete 30 undergraduate credits. UMN charges a higher per-credit tuition rate to out-of-state degree-seekers than in-state students. New students may qualify for one or more institutional or departmental scholarships.
Provo, UT
$$$$$
Located approximately an hour south of Salt Lake City, BYU offers a bachelor's degree in construction management. Learners complete core courses in the principles of accounting, real estate principles and development, and sustainability and regulatory building solutions. Graduates can seamlessly transfer into BYU's master's in construction management program.
Construction management students can meet with advisors to discuss graduation pathways and potential careers. Learners can network with peers by joining the on-campus Construction Management Student Association. Other resources for learners include engineering and technology internships exclusive to BYU students.
Admission requirements include high school transcripts, standardized test scores, and recommendation letters. Applicants with at least 24 undergraduate credits need not submit ACT or SAT scores. BYU helps learners with financial need avoid debt by excusing tuition that Pell Grants do not cover.
Houghton, MI
$$$$$
MTU's bachelor's in construction management program covers topics like building materials and methods, construction cost estimating, and construction equipment management. The program concludes with a construction project simulation and an independent study project. Students can present these projects to potential employers as part of an application portfolio.
MTU's undergraduate academic advisors assist students with selecting a major, keeping on track for graduation, and exploring relevant career paths. These advisors specialize in 1-2 academic fields, meaning they provide learners with expert advice. Students who complete a minor receive services from a second academic advisor, as well.
Applicants must submit high school transcripts. Optional application materials include standardized test scores and a counselor recommendation. MTU's transfer guides help prospective students determine which courses will transfer. Some scholarships require standardized test scores and essays. The university awards up to $5,500 per year in institutional aid.
Clemson, SC
$$$$$
Clemson's bachelor's in construction management degree includes courses in public speaking, materials and methods of construction, and construction scheduling. During their senior year, students complete a construction internship at a local job site and a capstone course. All students must also select a minor in a different academic subject.
The Center for Career and Professional Development offers a job board, career assessments, and resume and cover letter critiques. These and other resources help graduates start a fulfilling job soon after earning their degree.
Applicants must submit transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. Clemson uses a minimum 2.5 GPA cutoff for transfer credit. South Carolina residents save over 50% in tuition compared to out-of-state students. Competitive institutional scholarships award full tuition.
Milwaukee, WI
$$$$$
MSOE's bachelor's in construction management program covers topics like construction materials and methods, project management, and estimating. The program possesses programmatic accreditation from the American Council for Construction Education.
The Raider Center for Academic Success features tutors, success coaches, and the Career Academy. The Career Center (CC) offers other job-hunting resources, such as resume critiques and career fair preparation guides. Students can also research job openings through CC by creating a Handshake account or exploring links to top private job-search websites.
Undergraduate admission requirements include high school prerequisites in English, mathematics, and science. Applicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA. MSOE uses the same GPA cutoff for transfer credit. The university charges the same per-credit tuition rate to all learners regardless of residency.
Tempe, AZ
$$$$$
Located in Tempe, ASU offers a bachelor's in construction management program that features five concentrations, including commercial building, heavy construction, and residential. Although thousands of students enroll in ASU each year, the university features small class sizes.
ASU extends free tutoring services at each of its campuses. Learners also benefit from success coaches knowledgeable about graduation requirements and internships. Career Services advisors provide degree-seekers with interest inventories, skills assessments, and postgraduation planning.
Prospective students must meet one of four criteria, such as a minimum 3.0 high school GPA, 22 ACT score, or 1120 SAT score. ASU uses higher score cutoffs for nonresidents. The university awards numerous scholarships each year to freshman and transfer degree-seekers, and most awards require a separate application.
Bristol, RI
$$$$$
RWU's bachelor's degree in construction management features courses in construction project control, the fundamentals of contract law, and mechanical and electrical design for buildings. During a senior capstone, students work alongside an experienced construction manager to develop a project proposal. Students can also create a custom concentration with an advisor's help.
Students who join the RMU Construction Management Club can access community outreach projects, internships, and exclusive professional development workshops. RMU also hosts chapters of Women in Construction and the Associated General Contractors of America Student Chapter.
Applicants must submit one recommendation letter and standardized test scores. Institutional scholarships do not require a separate application, and typical awards range from $8,500-$22,500 per year.
Norman, OK
$$$$$
OU's construction management program confers a bachelor's in construction science. Students complete coursework on topics like emerging construction trends, products, and project delivery methods. Coursework gives learners hands-on experience with construction industry software and contact with practicing construction management professionals.
The Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture supports construction management students with scholarships, on-campus events, and academic advisors. OU also offers numerous architecture and construction-themed study-abroad experiences.
OU undergraduates interested in construction management must complete general education coursework with a minimum 2.5 GPA. The program accepts only 40 learners each year based on work experience and instructor feedback. Out-of-state degree-seekers pay approximately 300% more in tuition than Oklahoma residents. OU's multiple financial aid opportunities include the Award of Excellence, a $16,000 merit-based scholarship.
San Luis Obispo, CA
$$$$$
Cal Poly's undergraduate construction management program includes core courses in construction law, building information modeling, and residential construction management. Students must maintain a minimum 2.0 undergraduate GPA to stay in the program. They culminate the degree with a two-part senior project.
Cal Poly students can explore different construction management careers by signing up for paid micro-internships, viewing career resources videos, and attending online events. Career Services also offers virtual advising appointments and free job-hunting suites, such as Portfolium, MustangJOBS, Big Interview, and GoinGlobal.
Applicants must submit transcripts. Admission counselors consider transfer applicants' work experience and involvement in extracurricular activities when making admission decisions. The College of Architecture and Environmental Design awards numerous scholarships each year.
Southfield, MI
$$$$$
LTU's bachelor's in construction management program covers topics like architectural graphics, specifications and regulations, and introduction to business law. The senior project involves working with other learners to design a construction proposal. Industry leaders critique degree-seekers' final presentations and provide feedback that students can use in their career.
The First Year Ignite program helps new freshmen excel by fostering their leadership skills, introducing them to student success resources, and encouraging networking with peers. Application requirements for freshmen include high school transcripts and a 500-word essay. LTU recommends but does not require standardized test scores. Transfer credit should reflect a minimum C grade in each course. Incoming students do not submit a separate scholarship application. Some scholarships award up to $12,000 per year.
Pullman, WA
$$$$$
WSU's bachelor's in construction management program educates future construction leaders on the university's Pullman campus. Students can enter the program after completing at least 31 general education credits with a minimum 3.3 GPA. Major courses cover topics like materials, estimating, and planning and scheduling.
Student clubs, such as the Associated Students of Construction Management and the Mechanical Constructors Association of America, allow degree-seekers to network with each other and potential employers. WSU's on-campus resources include peer tutors and academic success coaches. Career Services offers free resume and cover letter critiques.
Applicants must submit high school transcripts. Out-of-state students pay more than double the in-state tuition rate. The School of Design and Construction awards departmental scholarships to eligible learners.
Minneapolis, MN
$$$$$
Dunwoody's bachelor's degree in construction management appeals specifically to learners enrolled in the university's construction project management associate program and transfer degree-seekers. Students can earn the bachelor's in approximately two years, taking courses on topics like field engineering, marketing, and green construction. Graduation requirements include competing in a national competition judged by industry leaders.
All students gain access to tutoring, workshops, and supplemental instruction. The Math and Writing Center helps students remediate academic deficiencies. Degree-seekers approaching graduation can take advantage of the Career Services Center's resume and LinkedIn resources to prepare for a successful job hunt.
Transfer students submit high school and college transcripts. They must also complete an interview with an admissions counselor. Institutional scholarships range from $500-$12,500 per year.
Siloam Springs, AR
$$$$$
Located in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, JBU offers a bachelor's in construction management program that emphasizes construction techniques, surveying, and estimating. Graduation requirements include a 10-week, 400-hour internship with a local construction firm that students complete over the summer. Degree-seekers also take a capstone course wherein they simulate a construction project from start to finish.
Construction management degree-seekers who need help with coursework can make an appointment with a Student Support Services (SSS) tutor. SSS also provides one-on-one assistance for learners with disabilities. Students who need assistance with resumes, job applications, or networking can make an appointment with a Career Development Center advisor.
Freshman applicants need a minimum 2.5 high school GPA and a 20 ACT or 1020 SAT score. JBU uses a minimum C grade cutoff for transfer credit. Transfer degree-seekers with fewer than 24 credits must submit standardized test scores. Automatic merit-based scholarships award $5,000-$12,000 per year, and some learners qualify for additional aid based on financial need.
Brooklyn, NY
$$$$$
Pratt offers two construction management degrees: a bachelor of science (BS) in construction management and bachelor of professional studies (BPS) in construction management. Both tracks use a 121-credit curriculum with coursework in construction graphics, safety management, and writing for the professional. The BS differs from the BPS in that it offers greater academic flexibility through electives.
The Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD) allows students to research construction management careers on its job-search website. Students can also use the website to access professional development events, how-to guides, and CCPD social media accounts.
Applicants must submit transcripts and an academic portfolio. Pratt awards several institutional scholarships. Learners apply by submitting FAFSA results.
Syracuse, NY
$$$$$
The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry offers a bachelor's in construction management program that emphasizes sustainable resources management. Upper-division courses include apple structures, surveying for engineers, and composite materials for sustainable construction. Students complete a two-part capstone experience that focuses on renewable energy and sustainable energy management.
The Academic Success Center (ASC) provides learners with workshops covering time management skills, study skills, and test prep. ASC also offers peer tutoring and a course in public speaking. Students nearing graduation can access career development courses and job fairs to research prospective employers.
Undergraduate admission requirements include high school transcripts and an essay. The program accepts some promising high school students in their junior year. The college uses a minimum C grade cutoff for transfer credit.
Northfield, VT
$$$$$
Norwich's bachelor's in construction management program includes courses such as introduction to engineering, passive environmental systems, and surveying. The degree requires 132-134 credits and requires general education courses in literature and leadership. The senior design project involves students working with a mentor to design and implement a research study.
The Academic Achievement Center and Writing Center provide one-on-one assistance. Students can use Handshake to access the Career and Internship Center's job board, career coaches, and a four-year graduation plan.
Norwich recommends but does not require applicants to submit a resume, essays, and recommendation letters. Institutional scholarships award up to $28,600 per year based on incoming learners' high school GPA.
Baton Rouge, LA
$$$$$
LSU's bachelor's degree in construction management features courses on topics like construction plan reading, structural principles and practices, and applied structural design. Students complete a capstone in their senior year. Enrollees must maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA to remain in the program.
The Center for Academic Success (CAS) offers online supplemental instruction and tutoring. CAS also runs the university's academic coaching and counseling program. Learners can log on to Handshake to research jobs, sign up for virtual career advising appointments, and apply for grants covering professional attire.
Applicants must submit high school transcripts, ACT or SAT scores, and at least one recommendation letter. Scholarships do not require a separate application, and awards range from $500 to full tuition and fees.
Boston, MA
$$$$$
Wentworth's 134-credit bachelor's in construction management program features courses on topics like chemistry of the built environment, heavy construction equipment, and managing and leading organizations. Students complete a cooperative-education experience during their junior year. Other graduation requirements include a senior project and an oral presentation.
Construction management students train for career success by taking a 30-hour course in construction safety. Learners can visit Wentworth's Career Center (CC) to learn about internship opportunities, craft a resume and cover letter, and hone interviewing skills. CC also runs multiple social media accounts to inform degree-seekers of the latest events and resources.
Applicants must submit high school transcripts, recommendation letters, and a personal statement. All students pay a flat per-year tuition rate. Wentworth does not require a separate application for merit-based scholarships.
Sioux Center, IA
$$$$$
Dordt's construction management degree-seekers can choose from a bachelor's in business administration or a bachelor's in engineering science. These degrees both feature a construction management concentration and require coursework in construction materials, general physics, and faith and calling.
The Academic Enrichment Center (AEC) provides students with skills-building courses, academic tutoring, and writing support. AEC's Aspire Program supports incoming freshmen who need remedial education before starting a program.
Applicants must submit high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. Dordt uses high school GPA and standardized test score cutoffs. Academic scholarships for freshmen award up to $13,500 per year. The college considers learners' high school GPA and standardized test scores when making award determinations.
Boone, NC
$$$$$
Appalachian's bachelor's in construction management program offers students academic flexibility with its two optional minors in general business and community and regional planning. Advanced coursework includes surveying methods, materials and structures, and construction administration. Students gain hands-on experience by completing an internship (3-12 credits) and developing an internship portfolio.
The school's Early Intervention Team identifies learners struggling academically and provides them with a remediation plan. Degree-seekers can visit Career Development Center to receive resume critiques and learn professional networking skills.
Applicants must submit high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. Appalachian waives the standardized test score requirement for prospective students age 23 and older. North Carolina residents pay the most affordable tuition rate. Institutional scholarships award $1,000-$10,000 to qualified learners.
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