Overview of Construction Management?

Construction management is the planning, coordinating, and building of a project from conception to completion. It is a professional field requiring individuals to manage and supervise building projects such as roads, bridges, airports, power plants, and buildings. Construction managers are responsible for budgeting, scheduling, cost estimation, risk management, safety, and much more.

What are the career opportunities associated with Construction Management?

Construction managers serve as liaisons between architects, engineers, and client entities. Their duties include hiring and supervising subcontractors, approving bids from potential subcontractors, and ensuring that construction projects meet all legal and budgetary requirements. Construction managers can find employment in a variety of fields, including engineering, management, and construction, and may even find themselves working in government agencies or nonprofit organizations. Some managers may specialize in a particular type of constructionlike residential or commercial buildings, prefabricated structures, or infrastructure.

Are there internship or co-op opportunities related to Construction Management?

Yes, students can gain experience in Construction Management through internships or co-ops. Internships are normally part-time and are completed while completing academic studies. They help students acquire and develop skills in the practice of Construction Management, while also exposing them to the different aspects of the profession. Co-ops offer students the opportunity to work full-time and acquire even more in-depth knowledge of the Construction Management field while applying their academic studies.

Are there specialized tracks or concentrations within Construction Management?

Yes, there are several concentrations within Construction Management, including project management, construction technology, and engineering management. Project management involves overseeing the budget, timeline, and resources of a construction project, while construction technology focuses on building materials, safety protocols, and construction methods. Engineering management gives students the skills to make project decisions related to design and technical specifications.

How Construction Management prepares students for graduate school or further education?

Construction Management provides students with the skills and experience needed to pursue further education in related fields. An advanced degree, such as an MBA in Construction Management, provides students with the opportunity to specialize in a particular area, like environmental management or project contracting. This degree also provides important experience in budgeting, finance, and construction law that can be applied to any job in the field. Additionally, a degree in Construction Management provides the expertise needed for a career in business, engineering, architecture, or public administration.

Impact of artificial intelligence on Construction Management?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is having a profound impact on construction management and the industry as a whole. AI is being used to increase the efficiency and accuracy of cost estimates, enabling managers to forecast and adjust budgets accordingly. AI can also be used for predictive analytics to help projects identify potential delays and other factors that may affect the overall timeline. Furthermore, AI can automate repetitive or labor-intensive tasks, allowing for more efficient use of resources.

The career outlook for Construction Management?

The field of Construction Management is growing, as it is an increasingly competitive and in-demand area of study. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment of construction managers is projected to grow 8% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. Despite the technological advances in the industry, construction managers will always be needed to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.

Here are the top reported starting salaries for graduates in Construction Management:

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo, Salary: $83,616

University of Alaska Anchorage, Salary: $80,711

California State University-East Bay, Salary: $80,056

California State University-Chico, Salary: $78,190

Central Washington University, Salary: $73,538

Wentworth Institute of Technology, Salary: $72,808

Washington State University, Salary: $72,092

Milwaukee School of Engineering, Salary: $72,024

Arizona State University Campus Immersion, Salary: $70,195

Drexel University, Salary: $69,427

For privacy reasons, not all schools report the first year salaries for students who earned their bachelor’s degree in Construction Management.