There are many different paths you can take to have a successful career in construction management. But, which program is the best for you? This article will discuss the top 10 online construction management degree programs. We will provide information on each program, such as tuition costs and job prospects.
Whether you are just starting in your career or looking to switch gears, read on for the best program for you!
Article Navigation: What is Construction Management? | Why Pursue a Career in Construction Management? | 10 Careers in Construction Management with a Master’s Degree | What You Need Before Pursuing a Master’s in Construction Management | Choosing an Online Master’s Degree in Construction Management | Top 10 Programs for a Career in Construction Management | High Paying Careers in Construction Management Await You!
What is Construction Management?
Construction management is the process of planning, organizing, and managing construction projects from beginning to end.
Projects can include anything from small residential projects to significant commercial developments. Construction managers are responsible for ensuring that the undertaking is completed on time, within budget, and to the client’s specifications.
Why Pursue a Career in Construction Management?
There are several good reasons to pursue a career in construction management. Perhaps you love working with your hands and being creative. Maybe you enjoy solving problems and working under pressure.
Or maybe you appreciate the sense of satisfaction that comes from seeing a project through from start to finish. Whatever your motivation, a career in construction management can be both rewarding and challenging.
10 Careers in Construction Management with a Master’s Degree
You can pursue many careers with a Master’s in Construction Management. Some of these include construction managers, estimators, contractors, engineers, architects, and project managers.
With this degree, you will have the skill set necessary to handle construction projects’ planning, coordination, and execution from start to finish.
You will also manage teams of workers and contractors and oversee budgets and schedules. With that in mind, the following are job prospects available with a Master’s in Construction Management.
Facilities Manager
Salary: $102,708 per year
A facilities manager is responsible for the overall maintenance of a company’s physical property, including buildings, grounds, and equipment. They typically work for corporations, hospitals, schools, or government agencies.
Primary duties include:
- Developing and implementing policies, procedures, and maintenance of the facility
- Budgeting and forecasting for repairs, upgrades, and new construction
- Overseeing contractors and ensuring they meet the safety standards.
A Master’s in Construction Management can help you qualify for this role. You will need strong communication skills and experience in project management, engineering, architecture, or contracting.
Building Surveyor
Salary: $65,590 per year
A building surveyor is someone who inspects the condition of a property and produces a report on their findings. The surveyor’s role is to identify any defects or potential problems with the property.
Additionally, they make suggestions for repairs if necessary. Building surveyors typically work for construction companies, local authorities, or private clients.
The work of a building surveyor can be highly varied, as they may also be inspecting everything from new-build homes to historic buildings. As a building surveyor, you must have a detailed understanding of the construction process.
Lastly, knowing different materials and how they react to weathering and aging will also be beneficial. A career as a building surveyor offers good prospects for progression, with opportunities to move into senior positions such as project manager or site manager.
Building surveyors are also in demand for their expertise in risk assessment, which is becoming an increasingly important part of the construction industry.
Sustainability Consultant
Salary: $71,687 per year
A sustainability consultant works with clients to help them reduce their environmental impact. They may work with individual businesses or entire municipalities.
Some of the tasks a sustainability consultant might perform include:
- Developing green building standards
- Creating recycling programs, and
- Helping companies reduce their energy consumption.
If you are interested in construction management but want to focus on sustainable practices, this could be the perfect career. Sustainability consultants typically have a background in engineering or architecture.
Therefore, if you don’t have one of those degrees already, it might be worth considering pursuing one.
Site Engineer
Salary: $88,570 per year
As a site engineer, you will plan, execute, and coordinate construction projects. You may also be responsible for ensuring people follow all on-site health and safety regulations.
Some typical duties include:
- Coordinating with architects, engineers, and subcontractors
- Overseeing the work of contractors
- Supervising the installation of electrical and mechanical systems
- Inspecting the work to ensure it meets safety and quality standards
Site engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or construction management. Many employers also require experience in construction project management.
Building Services Engineer
Salary: $72,224 per year
The fifth job prospect for someone with a Master’s in Construction Management is working as a Building Services Engineer.
This position is responsible for designing and managing all building services, such as heating, cooling, ventilation, and electrical systems.
As with many construction management careers, experience is vital in this field, so it’s essential to start as an intern or assistant if possible.
CAD Technician
Salary: $47,004 per year
A CAD technician uses computer-aided design (CAD) software to create and modify construction drawings. They may also be responsible for creating models and simulations of proposed projects.
Becoming a CAD tech is an excellent career for those interested in architecture and engineering, as they will have the opportunity to work on various designs. CAD technicians typically need an associate’s degree in architecture or engineering.
Project Manager
Salary: $97,180 per year
A construction project manager oversees all aspects of an assignment, from planning to execution.
They must manage budgets and timelines and communicate with contractors and clients. Project management is an excellent career for good organization and strong leadership skills.
Project managers typically need a bachelor’s degree in engineering or construction management.
Related Resource: Masters in Project Management Online: Why Earn One?
Estimator
Salary: $66,610 per year
As explained earlier, being an estimator is another possibility with a Master’s in Construction Management. An estimator is in charge of figuring out how much a construction project will cost. Budgeting may include materials, workforce, and time required for the project.
Estimating is an important job, as it helps to ensure that the company does not go over budget on a project. It also means that the customer knows what they are paying for upfront.
Architectural Technologist
Salary: $136,500 per year
An architectural technologist uses technology to design buildings and other structures.
They usually have a degree in architecture or engineering and work under the guidance of an architect or engineer. Their responsibilities include preparing construction drawings, estimating material requirements, and overseeing construction projects.
Financial Manager
Salary: $134,180 per year
The construction industry is a multimillion-dollar enterprise, and someone has to keep track of all the money.
Financial managers are responsible for budgeting, forecasting, and tracking expenses to ensure a construction project stays on budget. They also work with bankers and investors to secure funding for projects.
Listed above are only the most common careers for those with a Master’s in Construction Management. There are many other possibilities, such as working in sales, marketing, or the law.
It only shows that having this degree can give you many opportunities in the construction industry. But only the best and accredited programs can provide you with the quality education you need to succeed in this field.
As for the salaries, they may vary depending on your position, experience, and company.
What You Need Before Pursuing a Master’s in Construction Management
Engineering management is ideal for individuals with experience who want to progress in the business world. The most popular online engineering management program is the master’s degree.
Most engineering management courses are for professional engineers who wish to continue their education while still working. Additionally, online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, for example, include project-based final projects rather than a research thesis.
Managers of engineering projects:
- Oversee the goals of a project
- Organize and manage various tasks in their field, and
- Develop, structure, and handle initiatives.
Engineers must have a thorough knowledge of complex engineering work and engage with many people from various backgrounds while still directing staff and overseeing project goals.
Projects might take engineers outside into the field or keep them in an office environment. Regardless, this degree teaches engineers how to operate in the engineering industry, covering management and budgeting subjects.
Engineers in management must have strong math, science, and analytical skills. These jobs necessitate excellent mathematic and scientific abilities critical for these professions.
Overall, an engineering management degree will provide students with the education and experience needed to become excellent managers in their field.
Related Resource: How to Become an Engineering Manager
Choosing an Online Master’s Degree in Construction Management
When looking for an online master’s in construction management, it is essential to consider a few factors.
Accreditation and Credibility
The program’s accreditation is important because you want to ensure that you get a quality education. The Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) accredits construction management programs.
When choosing an online program, it is also essential to look for one accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC). The DETC is the national accrediting agency for distance education.
These accreditations are necessary because they indicate that the program has been evaluated and meets specific standards. Employers will often look for graduates of accredited programs, so having this distinction can give you an edge in the job market.
Related Resource: Top Construction Management Online Schools with ACCE Accreditation
Faculty Support
One of the benefits of an online program is that you have access to faculty support. You want to be sure that the professors in the program have the required knowledge in the construction management field.
You should also check if the program has a career services department. This department can help you with your job search once you graduate.
The faculty and staff at the program should be available to help you with any questions or concerns. When choosing a master’s in construction management, it is crucial to consider the accreditation of the program and the available faculty support.
Consider the Price
The tuition price of a construction degree is an essential factor to consider. You should ultimately search for a program that fits your budget.
When considering the program’s cost, consider the available scholarships and financial aid. Plenty of scholarships and grants are accessible to students enrolled in online programs.
The cost of an online master’s in construction management can be a significant factor in your decision-making process. However, there are many scholarships and financial aid options available to students.
Is the Program Student-Centric?
It is essential to consider how student-centric the program is when seeking enrollment in a program. The best programs will focus on the students and provide them with the support they need to succeed.
The professors in the program should be available to help you with any questions or concerns that you have. The program should also have a career services department to help you with your job search.
Flexible Learning Options
Another benefit of an online program is that it offers flexible learning options. You can often choose the format that works best for you.
Some programs offer courses in both synchronous and asynchronous formats. Synchronous classes require students to log in simultaneously, while asynchronous studies allow students to access the course materials at their convenience.
Some programs also offer accelerated and self-paced options. Choose a degree that works best for you and your schedule. The flexibility of online learning is a significant benefit of pursuing a degree in this format.
Networking Resources
One of the benefits of an online program is having access to networking resources. You can connect with other students in the program and with professionals in the construction management field.
The best programs will offer various networking opportunities, including webinars, conference calls, and social media groups. These resources can help you build your professional network.
The networking opportunities available through an online program can significantly benefit students. You can connect with other students and professionals in the construction management field.
These six factors are important to consider when choosing a master’s in construction management. By considering these factors, you can find a program that fits your needs and allows you to achieve your career goals.
Top 10 Programs for Careers in Construction Management
As mentioned earlier, there are many paths you can take to a career in construction management. Perhaps the most crucial decision you’ll make is which program to attend. Here are our top 10 programs for aspiring construction managers:
1. Master of Business Administration / Engineering Management – Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University’s Master of Business Administration / Engineering Management program is perfect for those looking to make the jump into construction management.
The program provides students with well-rounded business education and engineering and management courses specifically tailored to the construction industry.
An MBA in engineering management is where business and engineering meet. If you’re looking for a degree integrating both disciplines while supporting your professional goals, this is the program for you.
The courses include:
- Introduction to Engineering for Engineering Managers
- Systems Thinking for Engineering Managers
- Systems Engineering and Business Practices, and
- Project Leadership for Engineering Managers.
As for the tuition fees, you get under $21,000 in tuition – total for the entire degree.
The Association also accredits Southern New Hampshire University to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), one of a school’s most prestigious business accreditations.
Therefore, Southern New Hampshire University is an excellent choice for those looking to pursue a career in construction management.
2. Master of Science in Engineering Management / Leadership – Liberty University
LU’s Master of Science in Engineering Management with a concentration in leadership is another excellent option. This program is for those interested in leading engineering and construction projects.
The curriculum includes courses like Construction Estimating, Contracts and Specifications, and Project Management.
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) has granted accreditation to Liberty University because it is the regional accrediting body for southern states.
This degree is entirely asynchronous, meaning it’s 100% online, and you can do it at your convenience.
3. Master of Science in Engineering Management / Project Management – Liberty University
Liberty University offers a Master of Science in Engineering Management with a concentration in Project Management.
The program provides students with the skills needed to manage projects from start to finish. Students will learn about risk management, cost estimation, scheduling, and contract negotiations. They will also gain experience working on team projects.
The Master of Science in Engineering Management is an online-only program that provides education in project management. Each course has an eight-week timetable, with eight different start dates throughout the year.
You may finish your degree on your timetable and at your own pace, allowing you to continue to devote time to your profession, family, and neighborhood.
4. Master of Engineering Management – Ohio University
Ohio University’s Master of Engineering Management degree is comprehensive and well-rounded. It provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in a career in construction management. The curriculum includes courses in engineering, business, and project management.
With these courses, students will have a strong foundation in all aspects of the construction process. The program assists students to:
- Develop their skills as engineering managers and leaders.
- Unlock the skills and confidence you’ll need to become an even more successful engineer and easily communicate.
- Improve the leadership capabilities required to do what you do better and efficiently.
Since it’s 100% online, the program is convenient and flexible, allowing students to continue working while enrolled in the program.
5. Master of Science in Quality Management – Florida Institute of Technology
The Master of Science in Quality Management program at the Florida Institute of Technology prepares students for successful careers managing quality in construction projects.
This program is perfect for students with an undergraduate degree in business, mathematics, science, or engineering who want to extend their professional development. However, all disciplines are welcome to apply.
Instructors will teach methods for establishing high-quality objectives, identifying client needs, measuring results, and enhancing performance in this course. Students will study basic arithmetic and cost-effective analysis and economic modeling using computers.
There are many courses accessible to students, including:
- Quality engineering
- Production and operations management
- Supply chain management
- Project and program risk management
- Productivity measurement and improvement
- Internships offering real-world experience
Because it’s entirely asynchronous, you have more control over your learning schedule.
6. Master of Engineering in Engineering Management – Iowa State University
The online Master of Engineering in Engineering Management program focuses on teaching engineering, science, and management skills to future engineers. The advanced courses help them thrive in a technology-driven culture.
The program develops leaders who can tackle both technical and managerial problems in developing modern complex engineered systems. It also develops students into future project managers who can lead multi-disciplinary design teams to address technical and business challenges.
Technical courses help engineers gain skills and backgrounds relevant to their work in highly specialized fields.
These fields include:
- IT systems
- Project Management
- System Requirements
- Operations
- Architecture Designation, and
- Quality & Ergonomics.
Offered 100% online, this program is perfect for working professionals and students who aspire to have a career in construction management.
7. Master of Science in Engineering Management – Kennesaw State University
The Master of Science in Engineering Management from Kennesaw State University is a highly respected program providing skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as a construction manager.
Whether you are a student or a working professional, this program will help you develop the skills needed to manage and lead construction projects. The program combines learned science skills with sound business leadership methodology.
This program guides students through a combination of technical and business topics to develop the skills necessary to tackle current industry issues using engineering, management, and commercial principles.
Some of the courses they offer include:
- Managing & Leading Work Behavior
- Total Quality
- Statistics for Quality Assurance
- Project Management Processes
You can learn entirely online, and many students choose to do so to accommodate their busy lives.
8. Master of Science in Engineering & Technology Management – Louisiana Tech University
The Master of Science in Engineering & Technology Management program at Louisiana Tech University is for students who want to manage the technical aspects of construction projects.
The curriculum covers systems design, engineering management, project management, and financial analysis. The program helps students succeed in business settings in technical, managerial, and leadership positions.
As a student, you can choose from two concentration areas:
- Engineering Management
- Management of Technology
The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, or ABET, has accredited this program. Therefore, you can be sure of the quality of the education you will receive.
9. Master of Science in Project Engineering & Management – Montana Tech of the University of Montana
Montana Tech of the University of Montana offers an online MS in Project Engineering & Management degree program wherein experienced professionals can enhance their technical and management skills while preparing them for project manager jobs.
Engineering principles, contract management, safety procedures, and more are some areas this program covers. The available courses to choose from includes topics such as:
- Legal Issues Related to Project Engineering & Management
- Systems Safety for Managers
- Application & Design of Industrial Experiments
- Sustainable Engineering for Managers
With a Master of Science in Project Engineering & Management from Montana Tech, you will pursue project management in various industries.
10. Master of Engineering in Industrial Engineering / Engineering Management – Oregon State University
The online Master of Engineering in Industrial Engineering specializing in Engineering Management is for individuals with STEM backgrounds who want to progress or start their professions as organizational leaders, technical managers, or project leaders.
The program helps to accommodate the specific demands of engineering talent wanting to advance into leadership and management jobs. It teaches management skills oriented toward engineering while also developing soft skills such as persuasion. These skills are essential for leading teams and gaining executive trust.
By enrolling in the program, learners learn finance, business, and managerial subjects related to industrial engineering. Along with this, they know how to lead teams of engineers effectively, make well-informed decisions, and manage projects from start to finish.
High Paying Careers in Construction Management Await You!
You can find the best construction management programs at universities with solid engineering and architecture programs.
No matter which school you choose, make sure the program has an accreditation by the National Association of Schools of Architecture and Construction Management. This Association sets high standards for construction management education programs.
With an accredited program under your belt, you’ll be ready to apply for these high paying careers in construction management!