The construction industry is growing, and those with an undergraduate or master’s degree in construction management are highly sought after. These degrees will give you the ability to communicate with design professionals like architects and engineers and also the managerial skills to oversee the skilled tradesmen who perform the actual building work.
A typical course in construction begins with an exploration course and then moves on to more specific courses in construction to provide the necessary technical knowledge to construct a building from scratch. You can also take classes in advanced engineering topics such as structural analysis and modeling. Many programs also offer the chance to gain practical experience by working on real projects with local employers or participating in a student design competition.
In some programs your senior year may involve working with other students to conceptualize, plan and present your project to the panel. This is a great opportunity to expand your professional network and gain experience. It could also lead to the possibility of a job offer prior to graduation.
You can also specialize in one specific area such as civil engineering or green building and sustainability. The specialized programs can prepare you for positions in research and development, design, or estimating and cost control. Doctorate degrees in construction management usually last three to five years long and include a significant amount of research to be included in your dissertation. Some programs offer teaching assistantships or graduate assistantships that can assist you in paying for your tuition.