The construction industry is growing, and those with the bachelor’s or master’s degrees in construction management are highly sought-after. These specializations will give you the technical skills needed to work with professionals such as architects and engineers. They also equip you with the managerial skills needed to oversee the skilled tradesmen who do the actual construction work.
A typical course in construction starts with an exploration core and then moves onto more specific courses in construction to provide the necessary technical knowledge for building a structure from the ground up. It is also possible to study advanced engineering topics like structural analysis and modeling. A lot of programs offer opportunities to gain hands-on experience by working on real-world projects with local employers or taking part in a design contest for students.
In some programs the senior year of your program will involve collaborating with other students to plan, conceptualize and present your project to a panel. This is a fantastic way to expand your professional network and gain experience. It can also lead to the possibility of a job offer prior to graduation.
You can also opt to specialize in a certain area like civil engineering, green building and sustainability, or construction and materials technology. The specialized programs can prepare you for jobs in research and development, design, or estimating and cost control. Doctoral degrees in construction management usually last three to five years long and comprise a substantial amount of research to be included in your dissertation. Some programs provide teaching assistantships and graduate assistantships that aid in paying for your tuition.
