collageConstruction projects are large undertakings with numerous moving parts, and for this reason a whole area of study has been dedicated to the process. Construction project management, combining business and engineering principles, typically focuses on the areas of budget, time management, and quality assurance.
The USA remains the world’s most popular destination for international students. Universities in the US dominate the world rankings and the country also offers a wide variety of exciting study locations. State university systems are partially subsidized by state governments, and may have many campuses spread around the state, with hundreds of thousands of students.
A master’s degree could be the transition a student makes to obtain terminal education, or it could be the final step in an academic career following undergraduate studies. These courses tend to take somewhere between one to six years, most often two to four.
What is a Master in Construction Project Management? These degrees are usually targeted towards individuals who wish to pursue a career as a construction manager, and as such, often contain a mixture of theoretical and practical coursework. Example classes might include risk management, real estate, financial management, sustainable design and project management practicum courses. Due to the professional nature of many of these programs, students might also find their classmates are able to provide a wealth of experiential knowledge that may be put into practice immediately upon graduation.
Organizational skills essential to a manager’s success are often sharpened during the course of a master’s program. Knowledge of finance and design might also help existing construction professionals streamline their businesses and contribute to the success of their organizations.
The cost of a program is an important concern when considering your options. Contact your chosen schools directly to confirm you are getting the most accurate tuition figures.
The management of construction sites and projects often includes many complicated concerns. For large endeavors, these duties are usually divided between several management professionals. Risk managers, for example, might work to develop safety protocols, employee policies and insurance schemes to minimize the potential for loss and mitigate its unlikely occurrence. A graduate of a Master in Construction Project Management program might also find work as a consultant, helping investors or groups determine the feasibility of various construction efforts through a data-focused approach and knowledge of financial markets.
Furthering an education could be the key to unlocking the potential of your construction experience. Search for your program below and contact directly the admission office of the school of your choice by filling in the lead form.
There are many Construction Management programs to choose from as well as modes of delivery. Traditionally when we think of going to college we think of a brick and mortar campus. But today there are many options for those whose life commitments don’t allow them to pursue a traditional on-campus degree program.
Online programs have come a long way from their early days of dubious respectability. You can now complete many academic programs either on campus, online, or through a hybrid of both. You will achieve the same degree online as your campus-based counterparts—sometimes at a significantly lower tuition. If you’re interested, check out our list of the Best Online Colleges and Universities.
How much money do people make with a Construction Management degree?
The income outlook for Construction Managers is looking promising. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Construction Managers make a median salary of $89,300 per year. [1] Education and experience will, of course, dramatically influence your pay— in 2015, the highest-paid individuals in the profession made $155,200. So there’s a lot of room for growth. And salaries are on the rise.
Not surprisingly, where you live also makes a significant difference. U.S. News and World Report list the top-paying metropolitan areas for Construction Management as Atlantic City, New Jersey; Winchester, Virginia; and Newark, New Jersey. [2]
What can you do with a degree in Construction Management?
Construction management is a complex job which encompasses multiple overlapping roles. As a construction manager, you’ll need to be familiar with all aspects of construction—from financing and construction methods to legal requirements. Generally speaking, it’s not a nine to five job. And while you may have a main office, you’ll spend a lot of time in the field.
Just a few jobs you’ll be responsible for as a Construction Manager include:
- Cost estimating and project financing
- Construction techniques
- Human and material resources
- Construction law
- Conflict resolution
- Environmental safety and conservation
Whatever program you choose, make sure it covers the bases!
What are the requirements for a degree in Construction Management ?
Admission requirements vary widely from program to program, but there are a few constants that you will notice. Here are some common requirements:
- You’ll need an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution. Many programs are open to candidates with degrees in any area, but there may be bridging requirements (extra courses) to ensure readiness for the program.
- Many, but not all, schools require good GRE or GMAT scores.
- Most programs want their students to have professional experience. This can be either from a full- or part-time job in the industry or relevant internship(s).
If you are missing or lacking in a component, it is always worth getting in touch with the school to see if there is some way you can compensate. Many schools take a holistic approach to admissions, and you may be able to make up in one area what you lack in another.
What are the best Construction Management degrees?
At College Choice, we’ve done extensive research to find the best Construction Management degrees. Below you’ll find the best 25 master’s programs, laid out for you in an easy-to-read ranking. Our methodology takes into account the academic trifecta: institutional reputation, return on investment, and student satisfaction.
We weigh criteria like reputation scores, tuition costs, early career earnings, and peer assessments from a variety of sources to come up with a composite score that reflects academic excellence and the return on your tuition dollar.
We hope this ranking will help you find the perfect Construction Management program!
Best Master’s Programs in Construction Management
See our rankings methodology page.
1
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY IN THE CITY OF NEW YORK
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 100
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $22,973
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
One of the nine colonial colleges founded before the Declaration of Independence, Columbia University is an elite private research university in New York City. The school consistently ranks among the top ten national universities in the U.S. and now offers high-quality professional and interdisciplinary education through its School of Professional Studies.
Program Features
The School of Professional Studies at Columbia University offers a Master of Science in Construction Administration which will equip you with a broad understanding of the complexities of the industry. The program features a focus on commercial and residential building sectors, equipping students with essential skills for bringing projects to completion safely and within budget. Key topics include:
- Cost estimating and project financing
- Construction techniques
- Human and material resources
- Construction law
Notables
Columbia’s M.S. in Construction Administration is available both part-time and full-time and is geared to individuals with two to three years of industry experience. The program is comprised of 36 credits of coursework and a capstone project. You’ll be able to complete Columbia’s program in 3-4 terms of full-time study or 6-10 terms of part-time study.
2
CLEMSON UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 98.87
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $17,797
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Situated in the foothills of South Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Clemson University is a large public research university that ranks among the top 100 national universities in the country. The school stresses interdisciplinary learning and, in addition to their many undergraduate programs, offers high quality and top-ranked graduate and professional degree programs.
Program Features
Clemson University’s Graduate School offers a Master of Construction Science and Management (MCSM) that has received accolades since its inception in 1986. Clemson’s MCSM program has received wide recognition and is promoted by the Associated General Contractors of America as a means to attain a graduate-level education and to teach in the discipline. Courses include:
- Construction Management Research
- Financial Planning and Analysis
- Construction Control Systems
Notables
Clemson’s MCSM program aims to be uniquely flexible for students. The program is comprised of a minimum of 36 credit hours, 21 of which are dedicated to core coursework. Students then have the option of choosing a thesis or a non-thesis option, a directed study option, as well as the option of distance learning.
3
NEW YORK UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 97.12
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $35,147
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
A private research university located in the Greenwich Village neighborhood of New York City, New York University ranks among the top national universities in the country. The school is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities and is the largest private university in the country. The School of Professional studies continues the tradition of excellence, offering a range of highly lauded professionally oriented degrees and certificates.
Program Features
The School of Professional Studies at NYU offers a Master of Science in Construction Management that will equip you with the expertise to lead a construction project or business. The curriculum provides technical proficiency, financial knowledge, entrepreneurial skills, and business acumen for success in the construction industry. Courses include:
- Construction Methods and Technology
- Construction Financial and Cost Control
- Legal Principles and Practice
Notables
NYU’s M.S. in Construction Management is a 36-credit program comprised of three tiers of core coursework, electives, and a capstone project. Students can complete this program in one year of full-time study, or in up to five years of part-time study. You’ll need some professional experience in the industry to be admitted to NYU’s program.
4
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 95.50
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $32,932
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Located in Los Angeles, the University of Southern California is the oldest private research university in California. Historically, the school has educated a large percentage of the region’s business and professional leaders. And the top-ranked Viterbi School of Engineering—which provides the school’s Construction Management programs—is one of the best Engineering Schools in the country.
Program Features
The Viterbi School of Engineering offers a Master of Construction Management geared for young professionals with diverse undergraduate degrees. The program covers most of the current theories and practice in construction management, with special attention to the function of the constructor in real estate development. Students choose from one of three tracks:
- Finance Track
- Real Estate Development Track
- Architecture, Engineering and Construction Technology Track
Notables
USC’s M.S. in Construction Management is a 33-credit program comprised of core courses, required track courses, and electives. This interdisciplinary program combines courses from five different schools: Viterbi School of Engineering, School of Architecture, Marshall School of Business, Gould School of Law, and School of Policy, Planning and Development. Most students complete the program in three semesters.
5
STEVENS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 95.41
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $37,168
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Located just minutes from downtown Manhattan, the Stevens Institute of Technology is a highly-ranked, private research university and one of the oldest technological universities in the country. Originally dedicated to Mechanical Engineering, the Schaefer School of Engineering and Science ranks among the top 100 in the country.
Program Features
The Schaefer School of Engineering offers a Master of Science in Construction Management that will prepare you for an executive-track career within a major construction corporation. The program focuses on mega projects, equipping students with the latest knowledge, skills, and technology to lead the largest projects in the world. Core courses include:
- Computer Applications in the Construction Process
- Advanced Project Controls in the Built Environment
- Construction Safety Management
Notables
SIT’s M.S. in Construction Management is a 30-credit program comprised of three core courses and 21 credits of electives. The program has been designed to be uniquely flexible so that students can tailor the curriculum to their own professional interests. As a student, you’ll also be encouraged to complement your studies with full- or part-time work in the industry.
6
ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY-TEMPE
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 94.71
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $13,007
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Arizona State University’s Tempe campus—located just east of downtown Phoenix—is the largest of ASU’s four campuses. ASU Tempe ranks at #129 among national universities (US News and World Report), and their School of Engineering and the Built Environment (SSEBE) offers some of the top-ranked engineering programs in the country.
Program Features
ASU’s Del E. Webb School of Construction (part of the SSEBE) offers a Master of Science in Construction Management that will prepare you to organize, lead and manage the building process. The curriculum combines knowledge of innovative technologies, construction principles, and business management, equipping students to lead a wide variety of construction projects. Courses include:
- Construction Productivity
- Advanced Procurement Systems
- Construction Company Financial Control
Notables
ASU’s M.S. in Construction Management is a 30-credit program comprised of core coursework, electives, or research and a culminating experience (either a thesis or applied project). Graduates from ASU’s Construction Management program have a wide variety of careers in construction companies such as project managers, estimators, planners, schedulers and project engineers. They also work for owners and developers such as facility or project managers.
7
BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY-PROVO
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 94.55
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $12,864
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Located in Provo, Utah, Brigham Young University is a private research university that ranks among the top 100 national universities in the U.S. BYU is home to the Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering and Technology (not to be confused with ASU’s Fulton School of Engineering) which ranks at #102 among engineering schools nationally. The school is owned and operated by the LDS Church, but students do not have to be a member of the church to attend BYU.
Program Features
BYU’s Fulton College of Engineering and Technology offers a Master of Science in Technology specializing in Construction Management. The program is designed for experienced construction managers (or CM graduates) who want to expand their opportunities in the industry. It is equally applicable to those who want to work at the academic level (in research and teaching). Courses include:
- Construction Company Financial Management
- Trends and Issues in Managing Construction
- Construction Company Human Resources
Notables
BYU’s Construction Management program is comprised of 30 credits total—24 credits of coursework and a six-credit thesis. Full-time students can complete this degree in as little as one calendar year (3 semesters); however, part-time students must complete the program in three years from enrollment.
8
LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY AND AGRICULTURAL & MECHANICAL COLLEGE
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 93.52
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $15,095
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Situated on the banks of the Mississippi in Baton Rouge, LA, Louisiana State University is a nationally-ranked, public research university. The school is the flagship of the Louisiana State University System and its Professional M.S. in Construction Management program was recently ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the best online engineering programs in the country.
Program Features
LSU’s College of Engineering offers a Master of Science in Construction Management which blends engineering, business, and construction management concepts together. The program equips students to manage construction processes effectively while also providing a pathway for those interested in research and academic careers. Courses include:
- Project Delivery
- Decision-Making Tools for Construction Management
- Special Topics in Construction Management
Notables
Students in LSU’s M.S. in Construction Management choose from three degree pathways. The Professional pathway is a 36 credit program with several integrated projects, but no thesis. The Executive pathway is a 36-credit, non-thesis master’s with a major project. The Research pathway is a 30-credit program which includes a thesis. Students also have the option to complete this program online.
9
DREXEL UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 92.79
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $39,021
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Located in in Philadelphia, PA, Drexel University is a highly innovative, private technological university. The first university to have a completely wireless campus, Drexel is home to one of the largest and oldest cooperative education programs in the country, which allows students to graduate with extensive work experience. Drexel’s School of Engineering ranks at #75 nationally (U.S. News and World Report).
Program Features
Drexel University’s College of Engineering offers a Master of Science in Construction Management that provides the technical competence and business acumen essential for success in the industry. The curriculum develops multidisciplinary skills that effective construction managers must master. Drexel’s program offers three concentrations:
- Construction Project Management
- Real Estate
- Sustainability and Green Construction
Notables
Drexel’s M.S. in Construction Management is a 45-credit degree program consisting of a required five-course core curriculum, eight courses in an area of concentration, and a capstone course. Graduates work in a variety of construction organizations such as construction management, general and specialty contractors, architectural and real estate firms, and as project owners, suppliers, regulators, and lenders.
10
CENTRAL CONNECTICUT STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 89.14
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $14,852
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Founded in 1849 in the city of New Britain, Connecticut, Central Connecticut State University is a public regional university. The school ranks among the top 100 regional universities in the North and is home to the Manufacturing and Construction Management Department. The MCMD offers programs designed to prepare students for technology-oriented management positions.
Program Features
CCSU’s School of Engineering, Science, and Technology offers a Master of Science in Construction Management that will deliver the skills to run construction and construction-related companies. The curriculum covers all essential facets of the job including financial operations, construction law, risk management and the different methods of project delivery. Courses include:
- Construction Project Development
- Construction Law
- Construction Risk Management
Notables
CCSU’s M.S. in Construction Management is a 33-credit program comprised of core courses (15 credits), electives (15-18 credits), and a capstone project. Students can choose between a comprehensive final exam or a special project for their capstone—and the number of electives makes the program highly customizable. The program stresses student and industry interaction, experiential learning and industry-related research.
11
WENTWORTH INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 86.03
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $36,579
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Located in the heart of Boston, MA, the Wentworth Institute of Technology (WIT) is a private, technical design and engineering university. The school ranks among top regional universities in the North and offers programs in Architecture, Computer Science, Design, Engineering, and Management. As a student, you can expect high-quality classroom instruction and the practical application of technology.
Program Features
WIT’s College of Professional and Continuing Education offers a Master of Science in Construction Management that will make you a leader in the construction industry. The program is designed to be manageable for working professionals and is accredited by the ACCE (the American Council for Construction Education). Courses take you from pre-design through closeout and include:
- Business Relations and HR Management
- Business Finance and Investments
- Advanced Project Controls
Notables
WIT’s M.S. in Construction Management is a 30-credit program which is comprised of ten required courses and includes a capstone project. Because the program is designed for working professionals, all students study part-time, completing the degree in two years. And, if you prefer to study from home, WIT offers all Construction Management courses both online or on-campus.
12
VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE AND STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 85.85
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $17,190
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Colloquially known as “Virginia Tech”, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University is a public research university situated in Blacksburg, Virginia. The school’s has a mission to transform knowledge into practice through technological leadership, and their Department of Engineering ranks in the top 30 nationally (U.S. News and World Report).
Program Features
Virginia Tech’s Charles E. Via, Jr. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering offers a Master of Science in Civil Engineering with an emphasis in Construction Engineering and Management. This unique program is offered through the Vecellio Construction Engineering and Management Program to develop skills in written and oral communication—as well as independent and creative thought. Courses include:
- Dynamic Things in Engineering
- Design of Things in Engineering
- Design of Steel Engineering Materials
Notables
Students in Virginia Tech’s Civil Engineering: Construction Engineering and Management program will complete 33 credits of coursework. Depending on your professional goals, you will choose between two degree pathways. The research pathway includes the preparation of a thesis while students in the non-thesis option complete more extensive coursework as well as a project or report.
13
SUNY COLLEGE OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND FORESTRY
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 83.78
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $18,079
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Located in Syracuse, NY, the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF) is a public, doctoral-granting university and America’s top-ranked environmental college. Students study a range of disciplines—from their nationally ranked Engineering programs to natural resources management, and landscape architecture.
Program Features
ESF’s Department of Forest and Natural Resources Management offers two Master’s degrees in Construction Management. Students in both programs look at the broad environmental implications of the construction process. The program emphasis is on becoming efficient and environmentally responsible in your use of materials and integrating current technology to a practicum or thesis. Students choose from:
- Master of Science in Construction Management (research emphasis)
- Master of Practical Science in Construction Management (non-thesis)
Notables
ESF’s M.S. program is a 30-credit program which requires 18 credits of coursework and a 6-credit thesis on the student’s choice of study area. The M.P.S. is also a 30-credit program but is designed for practitioners that want to update professional skills (rather than pursue an academic career). Students in the M.P.S. program complete a practicum or synthesis project rather than a thesis.
14
UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA-NORMAN CAMPUS
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 81.67
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $17,966
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Located in the city of Norman, Oklahoma, the University of Oklahoma is a public research university that ranks among the top 50 public schools nationally (U.S. News and World Report). The school is home to many highly lauded colleges, including their College of Architecture which houses the Lemon Construction Science Division.
Program Features
The Haskell and Irene Lemon Construction Science Division at OU offers a Master of Science in Construction Management for students from diverse backgrounds. The curriculum emphasizes emerging construction trends, project delivery methods, products, management practices, and technologies. As a student, you can expect a variety of learning methods including team projects and case studies. Courses include:
- Construction Fundamentals
- Research Methods in Planning, Design, and Construction
- Legal Issues in Construction
Notables
OU’s M.S. in Construction Management is a 32-credit program which includes required and elective coursework and a research component. Most students complete the program in two years (four semesters). The school places high emphasis on diversity in their class makeup, with students coming from a wide range of construction-related backgrounds (like engineering, architecture, interior design, planning, etc.).
15
PHILADELPHIA UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 81.22
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $28,596
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Located in Philadelphia, PA, Philadelphia University is a top-ranked, regional public research university. The school’s College of Architecture and the Built Environment provides innovative programs that emphasize transdisciplinary learning. Philadelphia University recently merged with Thomas Jefferson University and will in the future be known by Jefferson’s name.
Program Features
The College of Architecture and the Built Environment at Philadelphia University (now Thomas Jefferson University) offers a Master of Science in Construction Management. The program will take you through each phase of planning and managing the construction process as applied to complex commercial, infrastructure, and residential building projects. You’ll gain a practice-oriented understanding of construction technology, business, architecture, and engineering. Courses include:
- Construction Estimating and Scheduling
- Construction Information Modeling
- Construction Law
Notables
The Master of Science in Construction Management is a 36-credit program comprised of nine required courses, two electives, and a Master’s Project. You do not need a background in a built environment field for admission to the program. Students come from a wide variety of undergraduate and work experience backgrounds and no GRE score is required.
16
MILWAUKEE SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 80.95
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $23,998
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Located on the shores of Lake Michigan in Milwaukee, WI, the Milwaukee School of Engineering has an outsized reputation for a small private university. The school is small in both enrollment and campus size, but ranks among the top 11 regional schools in the midwest, and is home to a top-ranked, non-doctoral Engineering program.
Program Features
The Milwaukee School of Engineering offers a Master of Science in Civil Engineering with a specialization in Construction Engineering. The program addresses the American Society of Civil Engineers Body of Knowledge requirements and is tailored to students with an undergraduate degree from an ABET-accredited civil engineering program. Construction Management courses include:
- Applied Organizational Behaviour
- Project Acquisitions and Business Development
- Marketing Management
Notables
MSOE’s MSCE program is a civil engineering degree, but the bulk of the coursework is in the Construction Management area. The total program requirements are 45 credits, with 36 credits within the CM specialty. Students also complete either a research project or a capstone project depending on your professional goals. And courses take place in the evening so that you can continue to work full-time if necessary.
17
NORTH DAKOTA STATE UNIVERSITY-MAIN CAMPUS
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 80.70
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $14,581
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Located in the Northern city of Fargo, ND, North Dakota State University is a nationally ranked, public research university that provides affordable access to high quality, student-centered programs. The school houses the Department of Construction Management and Engineering which combines teaching and research in a rich learning environment.
Program Features
The Department of Construction Management and Engineering (CM&E) at NDSU offers a Master of Science in Construction Management. This is a research-focused degree rather than a professional program, and students will work with advisors to develop and present a scholarly work of research as a major part of the program. Courses include:
- Scheduling and Project Control
- Construction Support Operations
- Construction Technology and Equipment
Notables
NDSU’s Master of Science in Construction Management requires a total of 31 credits (24 credits of coursework, 6 credits of research/thesis, and 1 credit of seminar). For admission to the program, you’ll need to take the GRE and have an undergraduate degree in construction, engineering, architecture, or another related discipline. If you’re looking for a practice-based program, NDSU also offers an online CM Master’s degree that has a professional rather than a research focus.
18
LAWRENCE TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 75.00
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $27,504
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Located in Southfield, MI, Lawrence Technological University is a private, STEM-focussed university. The school ranks among the top 50 Regional Universities in the North, and students in Lawrence Tech’s College of Engineering (which houses the Construction Management program) benefit from high-quality academics, applied research, and close industry partnerships.
Program Features
The College of Engineering together with the College of Management at Lawrence Tech offers a Master of Construction Engineering Management program. The program addresses the necessary problem-solving skills for planning, designing, and constructing modern infrastructures—from highways to airports and power plants. Blending construction engineering with business management, courses include:
- Sustainable Construction Practices
- Construction Law
- Techniques of Project Planning and Control
Notables
Lawrence Tech’s Construction Engineering Management degree is a 30-credit program divided between 15 credits of core courses and 15 credits of electives. The number of electives makes this a highly customizable degree program. Because this is an engineering program, you’ll need a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering (or other technical field) from an ABET-accredited program for admission.
19
KENNESAW STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 74.59
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $17,441
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Located in the small city of Kennesaw, Georgia, Kennesaw State University is a large public research university and a member of the University System of Georgia. The school is home to both a vibrant and diverse campus culture and nationally ranked programs. And the location of Metro Atlanta provides ample internship and applied learning opportunities for students in the Department of Construction Management .
Program Features
The Department of Construction Management at Kennesaw State offers a Master of Science in Construction Management that is accredited by the American Council of Construction Education. The program focuses on how to apply knowledge and use technology for solving real-world construction problems. Local construction projects, combined with strong industry support, provide vast laboratory opportunities and educational resources for students. Courses include:
- Construction Law: Contracts and Claims
- Strategic Bidding and Estimating
- Construction Risk Analysis and Control
Notables
Kennesaw State’s M.S. in Construction Management is a 36-credit program. All students complete 16 credits of core courses then—depending on your career goals—you’ll choose between an elective option, a thesis option, or a project option. For admission, you’ll need an undergraduate degree in a related discipline, and preference is given to those with professional experience in a construction work environment.
20
KENT STATE UNIVERSITY AT KENT
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 74.09
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $18,180
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Located near the Cuyahoga River in the city of Kent, OH, Kent State University is a large, nationally ranked, public research university. The school has seven regional campuses across the state, and is home to a College of Aeronautics and Engineering that offers students high-tech facilities and rigorous academics blended with practical experiences.
Program Features
The College of Aeronautics and Engineering at Kent State offers a Master of Technology (MTECH) degree with a specialization in Construction Management. The program prepares students with the skills and knowledge to manage complex construction-related projects. It is directly aimed at those currently working in the construction industry who want to enhance their careers or start their own business. Courses include:
- Construction Estimating
- Construction Contracts and Law
- Applied Construction Management
Notables
Kent State’s MTECH in Construction Management degree is a 33-credit program. All MTECH students take the same four core courses (12 credits), with 15 credits in the Construction Management specialization. You’ll be able to choose between a thesis or a non-thesis option, depending on whether you want to dive deeply into a more narrow area of study or study from a more broad-based curriculum.
21
WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 73.51
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $17,815
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Founded in 1890, Washington State University (WSU) is a public research university located in Pullman, WA with regional campuses throughout the state. With a high commitment to research and public service, students receive a strong educational foundation in a highly engaged learning environment. WSU’s exceptional College of Engineering ranks in the top 100 nationally (U.S. News and World Report).
Program Features
WSU’s Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture offers a Master’s in Engineering and Technology Management with a Construction Management Specialization. If you’re already working in the industry, this program is for you. The program is aimed directly at industry professionals who want to become more effective managers of projects and facilities. Owners, Designers, and Constructors will encounter a unique mix of courses, including:
- Program Facilities Management
- Project Delivery Methods
- Sustainable Construction Materials, Methods, Processes
Notables
WSU’s Construction Management program is comprised of 30-credits of coursework in six core areas as well as a final non-thesis project or comprehensive exam. For admission, students need a bachelor’s degree (in any area). The strictest admission requirement is that you are working in and have significant industry or engineering experience as well as math through at least college algebra, although calculus is preferred.
22
EASTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 71.64
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $14,268
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Located in the small Michigan city of Ypsilanti (between Detroit and Ann Arbor), Eastern Michigan University is a public institution with a commitment to excellence in teaching and applied research. The applied research piece is especially true for the school’s College of Technology, which emphasizes collaborative, project-focused education.
Program Features
The College of Technology at EMU offers a Master of Science in Construction Management which will enhance your understanding of the whole construction process. The curriculum explores state-of-the-art processes, production techniques, design functions, research applications, as well as management and leadership skills. And the MSCM program is accredited by the Project Management Institute’s Global Accreditation Center for Program and Project Management. Courses include:
- Project and Program Management
- Construction Project Planning and Estimating
- Analysis of Commercial Structures
Notables
EMU’s M.S. in Construction Management is a 36-38 credit program divided between 18 credits of core courses and 14 credits of Construction Management and Project Management electives. You’ll also complete a capstone project or thesis. And the school provides bridging courses (or a Graduate Certificate in Construction) for students who do not have a degree or work experience in a construction related discipline.
23
EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 70.97
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $12,255
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Located in Richmond, Kentucky, Eastern Kentucky University is a public institution that ranks among the top public regional universities in the South. EKU’s College of Business and Technology is one of only a few universities in the country with an academic college housing both AACSB-accredited business programs and an array of accredited applied sciences programs.
Program Features
EKU’s College of Business and Technology offers a Master of Science in Applied Engineering and Technology Management with a concentration in Construction Management. You’ll learn from leading industry professionals with expertise in government, commercial, residential and industrial construction projects, as well as practical experience as owners, designers, and contractors. Courses include:
- Economics for Lean Operations
- LEED Principles and Procedures
- Construction Portfolio Management
Notables
EKU’s Construction Management program is s a versatile, business-based program designed for current industry professionals. The program is comprised of 30 credit hours, with 18 credits of core coursework, six credits of supporting electives, and a synthesis experience. The program is accredited by the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE).
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PITTSBURG STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 70.03
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $12,967
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Located in the small city of Pittsburg, Kansas, Pittsburg State University is a public institution that ranks among the top 100 regional universities in the Midwest. Historically, the school has had a strong manual and industrial arts program. Today, the College of Technology continues this tradition with hands-on learning at the Kansas Technology Center.
Program Features
The College of Technology at Pittsburg State University offers a Master of Science with a Major in Technology and an emphasis in Construction Management. If you’re working in a technical or management position in the industry, this program is tailored for you—it provides advanced instruction in technical, scientific, managerial and supervisory areas. Courses in the Construction Management emphasis include:
- Estimating and Bidding Strategy
- Advanced Construction Management
- Virtual Design and Construction
Notables
Students in Pittsburg State’s Construction Management program can choose between a 30-credit thesis option or a 33-35 credit non-thesis option. All students take the same 15 credits of core coursework (which covers topics in research, statistics, quality, global issues, and leadership) and 9 credits in the Construction Management specialization. You’ll need an undergraduate degree in technology or a related discipline to be admitted to the program.
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SOUTH DAKOTA SCHOOL OF MINES AND TECHNOLOGY
COLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 69.96
AVERAGE NET PRICE: $19,311
SCHOOL WEBSITE
Overview
Located in Rapid City, in South Dakota’s Black Hills, the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology (SD Mines) is a public institution that was originally founded to support the region’s mining industry. Today SD Mines has evolved into one of the leading science and engineering universities in the region, providing students with rigorous academics and small class sizes.
Program Features
SD Mines’ Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering offers a Master of Science in Construction Engineering and Management that blends technical and management skills to advance your career. To ensure relevancy, SD Mines built this program in partnership with the construction industry. The curriculum covers key topics like sustainability—and hones skills in financial management and project delivery, among many others. Courses include:
- Construction Contracts
- Construction Project Management
- Engineering & Construction Ethics
Notables
SD Mines’ M.S. in Construction Engineering and Management is a flexible, 33-credit program divided between 15 credits of core coursework and 18 credits of electives. The program is intended to be manageable for working students. So you can enter the program at any one of the three semesters during the year and take classes face-to-face, streamed live, or watch the recorded class when it works with your schedule. Classwork is completed and submitted online.
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