An increase in new housing construction and emphasis on retro-fitting buildings to be more energy efficient are two contributing factors to an increasing demand for construction managers in the next decade.
The median annual wage for construction managers, who typically need at least a bachelor’s degree, is $98,890, compared to $37,520 for construction laborers, who do not need a degree.
Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows that this is an excellent career option for those who enjoy the freedom of working for themselves.
This list features some of the best online construction management degree programs at top colleges across the country. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions. The programs on our list have been accredited by reputable organizations, such as the Higher Learning Commission and Middle States Commission on Higher Education, that assess the objectives, quality, and overall effectiveness of colleges and universities.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, and reputation as well as the student resources provided for online students. Then we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared this comprehensive list of online construction management degree programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like the U.S. News & World Report among others to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
Construction managers inhabit a complex role on projects that includes budgeting, scheduling, communicating with clients and contractors, and complying with building and construction codes. They need a range of aptitudes, including leadership, decision-making, customer service, business, and time management.
A degree or certificate program will help you develop these skills, but on-the-job training is also valuable. Some programs at the graduate level seek students who have professional experience and an understanding of how construction or engineering projects work.
At the post-baccalaureate level, students can earn a graduate certificate or a master’s degree in construction management. Graduate certificate programs are typically more focused and take less time to complete than a full master’s program, but may not lead to the same job opportunities or professional recognition that a master’s will. Consider your career goals and timeline when deciding whether to seek a graduate certificate or master’s.
A number of professional certifications exist for construction managers, including the Certified Construction Manager (CCM) from the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) and the Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) from the American Institute of Constructors (AIC). These credentials signify expertise and professionalism to clients and employers, and the credentialing process usually involves passing an exam. Depending on the state, construction managers may also need a state-issued license.
Here are some questions to ask when researching Construction Management programs:
Be sure to review the program’s admissions requirements and deadlines during your research process as well. Prepare your application materials well in advance of the due date to help facilitate a smooth admissions process. You should also research funding resources for your degree, including scholarships offered by the school and private sources, financial aid, and tuition assistance benefits from your employer, if applicable.