Construction Management degrees in the USA

Construction management is the area of building and construction that deals with planning, design, and ensuring that projects are delivered on time and in a safe manner. Your knowledge of all areas of construction will be developed, making you aware of how your designs and plans affect the surrounding environment, as well as how to work with people from all backgrounds and in different countries.

An undergraduate degree in construction management will focus on building a foundation of knowledge in the main areas of the subject. You will develop your knowledge of the construction process, construction materials, procurement, contracts, civil engineering, the built environment, and the construction industry.

Depending on where you choose to study, you may be able to specialise towards the end of your degree. This specialisation can influence the area in which you choose to work after you have graduated. Common specialisations include:

• Construction Technology
• Quantity Surveying
• Construction CAD
• Construction Economics
• Project Planning and Development
• Health and Safety

If your degree requires you to write a dissertation, this will give you a further opportunity to research a favoured area of construction management.

The accreditation of your degree will depend on your institution and the country in which you choose to study. Different countries have different accreditation systems. You can typically expect to be awarded a Bachelor of Science (BSc).

Some degree courses may also be accredited by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and/or the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineers (CICES).

Generally an undergraduate degree will last three to four years. Foundation degrees, diplomas and certificates usually last up to two years when studied full-time.

On completion of your urban planning degree, you will either be able to look for a job in your chosen field, or continue your studies. Continuation of your studies could be in the form of a postgraduate degree, such as a masters, a PhD, or a graduate diploma or certificate. If you do choose to further your studies, you will be given the opportunity to focus on a more specific area of Construction Management.

Graduates of construction management will find that there are many career opportunities available to them. Whilst your skills will be focused on the construction industry, they will also be applicable to other industries that require planning, project management and people management abilities. If you choose to work in a role directly related to your degree, jobs could include building surveyor, estates manager, CAD technician, management consultant, site engineer, or sustainability consultant.

An undergraduate degree in construction management will focus on building a foundation of knowledge in the main areas of the subject. You will develop your knowledge of the construction process, construction materials, procurement, contracts, civil engineering, the built environment, and the construction industry.

Your course will be delivered through a mixture of modes. These will include lectures and seminars, as well as incorporating practical sessions and site visits. You may be presented with the opportunity to take part in a work placement module or year, which will allow you to apply your knowledge to real life situations.