What You Should Know About This Degree
For most construction jobs, including construction managers, a bachelor’s degree is the minimum level of education needed to get hired. On-the-job training is highly valued in this field, and many employees will work their way up to management positions through experience alone. Before committing to the time and effort of a master’s degree, it’s important to consider your career goals and research what qualifications you need to attain the job you want.
Beyond having knowledge of construction and engineering principles, construction managers must be adept at customer relations, budgeting and planning, decision-making, and leadership. A master’s program will help you sharpen these skills, but it’s wise to reflect on your inherent abilities and determine if you have the qualities necessary to be a successful manager.
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 are valuable, as they demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to quality to clients and employers. Typically, the credentialing process involves paying a fee and passing an exam. Depending on the state you work in, you may also need to obtain a state-issued license.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when researching Online Master’s in Construction Management programs:
- Am I eligible for this program? Most master’s-level programs in construction management seek students who have an undergraduate degree in construction management or a related field like civil engineering, as well as some professional experience. Review the program’s eligibility requirements before applying to confirm that you have the minimum qualifications for admission.
- Are standardized tests required for admission? As part of the application process, programs may also require that you submit GRE or GMAT scores. If you have not yet taken these tests, or if your scores are out-of-date, you should make arrangements to take them as soon as possible, as test scores can take several weeks to process.
Now is a good time to start gathering your application materials as well as keeping track of application and interview deadlines. If you have questions about the admissions process, contact the program’s representatives or admissions counselors.
You should also consider how you will finance your graduate education. Options include student loans, assistantships, scholarships, and tuition assistance benefits from your employer if you are currently working.