Construction managers have diverse skill sets, which include project management, leadership aptitude, and sharp decision-making. They are in high demand, with job growth around 5% and an average annual salary of $104,900.
Construction management degrees are offered as both bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Construction management bachelor’s degree programs 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.
The average annual tuition for an undergraduate degree is $7,998 at public schools and $34,923 at private schools. For a graduate degree, the average annual tuition is $12,596 at public schools and $28,017 at private schools.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best online Construction Management degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 50 Accredited Online Construction Management Programs
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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. Online students can focus on concentrations within the construction industry, 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.
If you already know what you want to do after you graduate, look for construction management programs that closely match these career goals.
Research schools and programs
You should only apply to institutions that have been approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.
Ideally, your online construction management program will also be accredited by the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE). This programmatic accrediting organization has particularly high standards for education in the construction industry.
To learn more about any schools that you’re interested in, you can visit the school’s website, contact an admissions counselor, follow the school on social media, or attend an in-person or virtual open house.
Prepare for tests and applications
Most construction management 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 personal statement with the application.
A master’s degree program in construction management often requires a bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, or a related field. 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.
Also, you should always contact an admissions counselor to ensure you have the most accurate information regarding program requirements and deadlines.
Select your program
Before making your final decision, review your needs and goals again.
Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Do you want your program to be as online as possible, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a fair amount of in-person requirements? Some construction management programs offer asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace, while others only offer synchronous courses, which involve remotely attending lectures and completing assignments at the same time as other students — which of these two online learning formats do you prefer? Your school should accommodate your scheduling needs and learning preferences.
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.
Contact your school’s financial aid office to learn more about any grants, scholarships, or work-study programs available to assist with the cost of your education. Those who already work in the field should see if their employer offers tuition assistance benefits as well.
What Can You Expect from an Online Construction Management Program?
Construction management bachelor’s degree programs are typically 120 credit hours, on average. These programs are designed to be completed in approximately four years by full-time students. Master’s degree programs in construction management range from 30-45 credit hours.
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.
These programs cover topics such as construction project management, facilities management, construction planning, construction materials, construction safety, and leadership skills in order to prepare students for work in the construction industry. Some schools might require fieldwork to gain hands-on, practical experience with construction companies.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online construction management degree program
Construction Project Management
Students explore the latest technology trends in construction planning and learn the fundamentals of construction project management. This includes contract types, project delivery, and the role of the construction manager.
Cost Estimation and Control
Students examine the fundamentals of cost control methods and how to estimate cost in the design phase of construction project management. This course also covers how to close out a project after final approval and turn it over to the client.
Construction Finance
Students learn about the basic financial concepts involved in construction project management, including interest rates and cash flow.
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.
What Can I Do With an Online Construction Management Degree?
Career outlook
A construction management degree is a specialized degree that equips students with the skills needed to become construction managers, including an understanding of construction planning, construction safety, construction materials, and leadership skills. Construction managers can work in residential or commercial construction, civil engineering construction, or specialty trades.
Another path construction managers may take is starting their own construction company. Individuals who are interested in this option may want to seek a construction management program that includes business courses or complete an MBA in entrepreneurship. This will help develop the business management skills needed to ensure a successful independent business venture in the construction industry.
Some of the most common jobs for workers with a construction management degree include:
- Construction manager — Coordinate and supervise a variety of projects, including building public, residential, commercial, and industrial structures, as well as roads and bridges.
- Median annual salary: $104,900
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 5%
- New jobs projected: 38,700 per year
- Civil engineer — Plan, design, and supervise the construction and maintenance of building and infrastructure projects, including facilities, bridges, roads, tunnels, and water and sewage systems.
- Median annual salary: $95,890
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 5%
- New jobs projected: 21,200 per year
- Construction and building inspector — Ensure the safety compliance of buildings, dams, bridges, and other structures and inspect electrical, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration, and plumbing systems.
- Median annual salary: $67,700
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): -2%
- New jobs projected: 15,700 per year
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 undergraduate degree students or the GRE for graduate degree 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 an online bachelor’s degree is between $40,926 to $63,405 in total tuition. EducationData.org reports that the average cost of a master’s degree is $59,684.
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 per semester. Ask about these extra fees early in your financial planning process.
How long does it take to earn an online construction management degree?
Bachelor’s degrees generally require 120 credits, which takes about four years to complete for full-time students. However, some schools offer summer classes or night classes that can shorten this timeline.
Most online master’s in construction management degree programs, which tend to require between 30-45 credits, are completed within two years by full-time students. Part-time students may need between three and five years to finish all their coursework.
Is an online construction management degree worth it?
While an online construction management degree has benefits, it’s not the only path to becoming a construction manager. Most entry-level construction jobs don’t require a degree, and individuals can work their way up to management positions based on experience.
However, having a construction management degree can give students an advantage, with formal training in areas like project management, design, cost estimation, business, communications, and more. Most programs include an internship component, which gives students hands-on experience.
From a financial perspective, individuals with a bachelor’s degree earn a median weekly salary of $1,493, compared to $899 for those with only a high school diploma.