Construction managers have diverse skill sets, which include project management, leadership aptitude, and sharp decision-making skills. They are in high demand, with job growth around 8% and an average annual salary of $98,890.
Construction management degrees are offered as both bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Bachelor’s degrees will take approximately four years, requiring 120 credit hours on average. Master’s degrees typically require 30-45 credits, which can take up to three years to complete for a full-time student.
As of 2021, the average yearly cost of a bachelor’s degree is $25,910 for public schools and $45,920 for private schools. A master’s degree costs approximately $12,394 per year at public schools and $26,621 per year at private schools.
How to Choose an Online Construction Management Program
Choose your area of study
Construction management covers a variety of disciplines ranging from business to construction methods to interpersonal skills. Students can focus on concentrations within the construction field, such as sustainability and real estate development, or they may decide to move into management careers outside of construction altogether. Some students become entrepreneurs, equipped with the education needed to navigate the many facets of self-employment.
Research schools and programs
Both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in construction management are typically offered as science degrees, except for the Master’s in Construction Management (MCM). Some Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) programs offer a concentration in construction management. All of these programs require coursework in statistics, finance, and economics.
To determine which educational path is best for you, take the time to visit each school’s website and look for information about online retention rates and job placement statistics. Also, be sure to contact admissions representatives from each program, as they have intimate knowledge about their respective schools and can help you compare your professional goals to their program’s offerings.
Prepare for tests and applications
Most bachelor’s degree programs will request high school transcripts or a GED for admission. Every school has different requirements, but be prepared to offer letters of recommendation and standardized test scores, such as the SAT. Some competitive schools may also ask for an essay or letter of intent with the application.
A master’s degree program in construction management often requires a bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, or a related degree. There is typically a minimum grade point average (GPA) threshold, and some schools might ask for standardized exam scores, such as the GRE or GMAT.
Select your program
Selecting your program will require careful consideration of many factors, including cost, delivery format, online student support, faculty specializations, access to necessary technology and software, and your personal preferences.
In addition, you may want to ask your admissions counselor the following questions:
- Is this program nationally or regionally accredited?
- Are online classes synchronous (live courses in real-time) or asynchronous (student-paced?)
- Do most students attend part-time or full-time?
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Many students begin planning for the cost of their education by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form helps determine whether a student qualifies for tuition assistance or affordable federal loans. Also, some students can set up work-study programs that allow them to make tuition payments with a portion of their earnings. Your school’s financial aid office can also inform you of any grants, scholarships, or payment plans available to assist with the cost of your education.
Best 50 Accredited Online Construction Management Programs
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How We Rank Schools
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 standards, retention and graduation rates, faculty, and reputation as well as the 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, including U.S. News & World Report, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
What Can You Expect from an Online Construction Management Program?
Bachelor’s degree programs are typically 120 credit hours, on average. These programs are designed to be completed in approximately four years for full-time students. Master’s degrees in construction management range from 30-45 credit hours or 10-15 courses. Full-time students can expect to complete their master’s level work in two to three years, while part-time students will likely take between three and five years.
Construction management students will spend much of their time learning about project management, facilities, design, construction methods, finance, risk management, budgeting, and leadership. Some schools might require fieldwork to gain hands-on, practical experience on construction sites.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online construction management degree program
- Construction Project Management. Students explore the latest technology trends in project planning and learn the fundamentals of construction management. This includes contract types, project delivery, and the role of the project manager.
- Construction Scheduling. Students learn how to develop and manage scheduling tools that organize construction activities from beginning to end.
- Cost Estimation and Control. Students examine the fundamentals of cost control methods and how to estimate cost in the design phase. This course also covers how to close out a project after final approval and turn it over to the client.
- Construction Finance. Students learn the basic economics of the essential components of every construction project, including interest rates and cash flow.
- Construction Graphics. Students are introduced to the graphical language of construction design. They will perform studio exercises that illustrate how to read and interpret graphics and use these graphics to accurately describe existing build conditions.
- Building Systems. Students examine building mechanical systems and how to perform basic design calculations. Students will review design documents, such as drawings and specifications, and learn how to draft subcontractor bid packages.
Online Construction Management Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online construction management degree program?
To start the application process, begin with your school’s website to learn more about its admissions requirements and contact an admissions counselor. Your counselor will be able to guide you through each step, but you’ll likely be asked to submit the following documents:
- Official transcripts. These inform the admissions team of your grade point average, the amount of coursework you’ve completed, and the academic rigor of your courses.
- Letters of recommendation. These should come from teachers or colleagues who can attest to your scholarship abilities.
- Standardized test scores. Your school may not require standardized test scores, such as the SAT for undergraduates or the GRE for graduate students, but some scholarships and fellowships may ask for them.
- Resume or curriculum vitae. Be sure to include any professional memberships, volunteer experience, educational research, or publications.
Remember that it can take a while to gather all the necessary materials, so make sure you allocate enough time in your planning to meet application deadlines.
How much does an online construction management degree cost?
According to U.S. News & World Report, the average cost of a bachelor’s degree is between $38,496-$60,593. EducationData.org reports the average cost of a master’s degree is $62,650.
To find the per-credit cost of your school’s program, search your school’s website or contact your financial aid advisor or admissions counselor. In addition to the per-credit cost, some schools charge additional student fees, library fees, and software or technology fees, which can add up to hundreds of dollars. Ask about these extra fees early in your financial planning process.
How long does it take to earn an online construction management degree?
Undergraduate students completing a four-year degree will generally need to complete 120 credits. However, some schools offer summer classes or night classes that can shorten this timeline. Similarly, some schools also provide dual-degree pathways where classes are condensed to allow students to finish their required courses more quickly.
Most online master’s in construction management degree programs are completed within two years for full-time students. Part-time students may need between three and five years to complete their coursework. Nonetheless, most students will complete between 30-45 credits on average, no matter their chosen pathway.
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