A bachelor’s degree in construction management prepares students to work in management or supervisory positions for construction projects. They learn the technical, interpersonal, and practical skills needed to manage and guide construction projects from start to finish. Graduates are hired for positions such as construction manager, construction estimator, land planner, facilities manager, and site engineer.
The national median annual wage for construction managers is $101,480. Wages depend largely on the industry, location, and the applicant’s education and experience. Heavy and civil engineering construction has the highest annual median wage ($104,600), while residential building construction has the lowest annual median wage ($82,860).
Earning a bachelor’s degree in construction management takes students between three and four years of full-time study, with required credits ranging from 120 to 187, depending on the institution. The cost of a program will vary based on the school and program, housing requirements, and supplies needed. The average annual cost for a bachelor’s degree is $16,618. Students who require room and board can expect to pay an average of $12,415 more annually.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best 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 45 Construction Management Degree Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
California Polytechnic State University
Intelligent Score: 99.92In-state: $33,522
Out-of-state: $53,706
In-state: $40,608
Out-of-state: $40,608
SAT: 1240-1470
ACT: 22-33
California Polytechnic State University offers a degree in Construction Management with a significant focus on protecting the environment. Students develop a strong skill set in construction techniques while building knowledge of materials, equipment, job planning, and cost control. Taught through an environmental lens, this curriculum helps prepare students for their future careers in organizing and managing the construction phase of any small- or large-scale project. Freshman applicants are evaluated on high school coursework, GPA, extracurricular activities, and work experience. Transfer students must have a minimum of 60 completed credit hours to be eligible for admission, with a grade of C- or better on courses in Critical Thinking, Math Concepts/Quantitative Reasoning, Oral Communication, and Written Communication. A GPA of 2.0 or higher is required.
Resident: $1,110
Non-Resident: $1,374
On-Campus
American Council for Construction Education
126
Brigham Young University
Intelligent Score: 99.63In-state: $5,970
Out-of-state: $5,970
In-state: $7,510
Out-of-state: $7,510
SAT: 1200-1410
ACT: 26-32
Brigham Young University - Provo offers a Construction Management program grounded in efficiency and practicality. Students receive a well-rounded education with individualized, theory-based instruction taught alongside hands-on experiences. The undergraduate program prepares students for careers in project-level management and opportunities for international study. Those seeking a master's degree will benefit from BYU's graduate program, which can be completed in just one year and focuses on construction company management. The Construction Management program is an open-enrollment program. To apply, students must submit an online application along with any relevant transcripts.
$342
On-Campus
Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
121
Missouri State University
Intelligent Score: 98.56In-state: $6,840
Out-of-state: $15,510
In-state: $5,436
Out-of-state: $5,436
SAT: 1020-1220
ACT: 21-27
As one of the only Construction Management programs that is a part of a business school, Missouri State University provides students with an innovative curriculum designed to build skills in business leadership. Coursework is rigorous, with additional opportunities to participate in internships, gain professional affiliations, and compete in student competitions. Students also have access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities for hands-on learning so they can put their technical skills to the test. The curriculum is known for producing well-rounded graduates who are often regarded as competitive hires. Many earn higher-than-average salaries upon graduation. Students attending this program must be students of Missouri State. The major can only be declared after 75 credit hours have been completed - including successful completion of Analytic Geometry and Calculus or Computational Calculus with Analytic Geometry classes.
Resident: $279
Non-Resident: $572
On-Campus
American Council for Construction Education
120
SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry
Intelligent Score: 97.62In-state: $7,070
Out-of-state: $16,980
In-state: $11,310
Out-of-state: $11,310
SAT: 860-1060
ACT: N/A
In-State: $295
Out-of-State: $788
On-Campus
American Council for Construction Education
124
Brigham Young University - Idaho
Intelligent Score: 97.53In-state: $5,970
Out-of-state: $5,970
In-state: $7,510
Out-of-state: $7,510
SAT: 1200-1410
ACT: 26-32
Students earning a Construction Management degree at Brigham Young University - Idaho benefit from a comprehensive curriculum with ample opportunities to gain field experience. Focusing on both individual knowledge and collaboration with fellow students, graduates are well-versed in specialized project management techniques. Courses teach building modeling, virtual design, accounting, and business principles to give students the knowledge they need to be successful in their future careers. New applicants to the University should submit an online application and all relevant transcripts to be considered for admission. BYU Idaho recommends that current students take one of two major-specific courses - Framing Systems or Survey of Architecture and Construction - to see if Construction Management is the right field for them.
$194
On-Campus
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
120
Wentworth Institute of Technology
Intelligent Score: 96.94In-state: $35,970
Out-of-state: $35,970
In-state: $38,600
Out-of-state: $38,600
SAT: 1090-1280
ACT: 23-28
$1,265
On-Campus
American Council for Construction Education
133
Virginia Tech
Intelligent Score: 96.81In-state: $32,274
Out-of-state: $36,090
In-state: $44,444
Out-of-state: $44,444
SAT: 1210-1410
ACT: 26-32
Resident: $529
Non-Resident: $1,388
On-Campus
Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
124
Louisiana State University
Intelligent Score: 96.1In-state: $8,038
Out-of-state: $8,038
In-state: $9,132
Out-of-state: $9,132
SAT: 1090-1300
ACT: 23-28
Students earning a degree in Construction Management from Louisiana State University can choose from six different areas of specialization to complete degree requirements: Industrial, Heavy Highway and Civil, Commercial, Residential, General Contracting, and Military Leadership. By building knowledge in a specific area, students may be more competitive hires for certain jobs. LSU encourages all Construction Management students to pursue additional certification as a Distinguished Communicator. Because communication is a foundational skill that successful construction managers do well, this additional certification may give graduates a competitive edge in hiring processes. LSU has a test-optional admissions process. Prospective students must submit an online application, all relevant transcripts, and one letter of recommendation to be considered for admission.
Resident: $873
Non-Resident: $1,655
On-Campus, Online
American Council for Construction Education
122
Kent State University
Intelligent Score: 93.92In-state: $10,810
Out-of-state: $19,686
In-state: $11,766
Out-of-state: $11,766
SAT: 1020-1210
ACT: 20-26
Resident: $575
Non-Resident: $970
On-Campus
American Council for Construction Education
120
Pittsburg State University
Intelligent Score: 93.33In-state: $5,836
Out-of-state: $17,180
In-state: $6,820
Out-of-state: $6,820
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
In-State: $299
Out-of-State: $677
On-Campus
Applied and Natural Science Accreditation Commission of ABET
124
Appalachian State University
Intelligent Score: 92.37In-state: $4,242
Out-of-state: $19,049
In-state: $4,839
Out-of-state: $4,839
SAT: 1070-1240
ACT: 22-27
Resident: $176
Non-Resident: $884
On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120
University of Minnesota
Intelligent Score: 91.74In-state: $13,318
Out-of-state: $31,616
In-state: $17,580
Out-of-state: $17,580
SAT: 1240-1460
ACT: 25-31
Resident: $557
Non-Resident: $1,323
Hybrid
Applied and Natural Science Accreditation Commission of ABET
120
Everglades University
Intelligent Score: 91.45In-state: $17,520
Out-of-state: $17,520
In-state: $19,200
Out-of-state: $19,200
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$832
On-Campus, Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
123
Ohio Northern University
Intelligent Score: 91.23In-state: $33,470
Out-of-state: $33,470
In-state: $29,250
Out-of-state: $29,250
SAT: 1100-1320
ACT: 22-28
$1,595
On-Campus
Association of Technology, Management and Applied Engineering
120
University of Northern Iowa
Intelligent Score: 90.63In-state: $7,665
Out-of-state: $19,949
In-state: $9,159
Out-of-state: $9,159
SAT: 1030-1230
ACT: 20-26
Resident: $350
Non-Resident: $832
On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
120
Minnesota State University, Mankato
Intelligent Score: 90.55In-state: $7,504
Out-of-state: $15,922
In-state: $7,994
Out-of-state: $7,994
SAT: N/A
ACT: 19-24
Resident: $326
Non-Resident: $702
On-Campus
American Council for Construction Education
120
University of Wisconsin at Platteville
Intelligent Score: 89.88In-state: $9,273
Out-of-state: $37,161
In-state: $10,728
Out-of-state: $10,728
SAT: 1260-1460
ACT: 27-32
WI Resident: $274 - $322
Non-Resident: $647
On-Campus
Association of Technology, Management and Applied Engineering
120
SUNY College of Technology at Delhi
Intelligent Score: 89.65In-state: $7,070
Out-of-state: $16,980
In-state: $11,310
Out-of-state: $11,310
SAT: 860-1060
ACT: N/A
In-State: $295
Out-of-State: $708
On-Campus
American Council for Construction Education
126
How to Choose a Construction Management Program
Choose your area of study
When choosing your area of study, consider your career and educational goals. A bachelor’s degree in construction management lays the groundwork for entering the workforce or continuing your studies with a master’s degree in construction management. Take into account the industry you’d like to work in, any specializations you feel drawn to, and whether you’d like to continue your studies once you’ve earned your bachelor’s degree.
Nearly all construction management degrees are offered as a Bachelor of Science, which delves into the logical, quantitative, research-based, and mathematical skills students will need in their future careers. Students can enter specializations like project management, construction technology, sustainable building, and urban development. If you need help determining what area of study is best suited to your career goals, speak with an academic advisor to help narrow down your choices and find the best fit.
Research schools and programs
When researching schools and programs, only consider accredited institutions. Attending a regionally accredited institution provides better opportunities for transferring credits, applying for financial aid, and earning government grants. Many employers and licensing programs won’t accept applicants with a degree from an unaccredited university, as they don’t meet the quality standards required for accreditation.
Look for construction management programs accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET or the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE). This accreditation verifies that the program curriculum meets the quality standards that will allow you to succeed in your profession.
Plan for your lifestyle and logistical needs when choosing a school and program. Consider the following when making your choice:
- Will you be studying in-person or online?
- Are you applying as a full-time or part-time student?
- Do you prefer synchronous or asynchronous courses?
- What’s the school culture like?
- What extracurriculars are available?
- How strong is the alumni association?
- Does the school offer job placement assistance?
Visit the school in person, browse the school and program websites, and speak with a representative to help you decide whether a program is right for you.
Prepare for tests and applications
Application requirements for a bachelor’s degree in construction management typically include your most recent transcripts, a personal essay, and letters of recommendation. Depending on the institution, you may also be required to submit test scores, such as your SAT or ACT results. International students, or those with English as a second language, must also complete an English language proficiency test.
The application process and requirements vary by school, so it’s important to speak with an admission counselor to confirm that you’ve gathered the correct documents. Keep an eye on the admission deadline, and submit it before the cut-off date.
Select your program
If you’ve been accepted to multiple programs, decide which option is best for your career goals, lifestyle, and logistical needs. Consider the program length, costs, housing options, specialization options, and extracurriculars offered. Choose the program that you feel will help you achieve your future goals and set you up for success.
If you need assistance in narrowing down your options, speak with an academic advisor. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option and guide you toward the best fit.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
To determine whether you’ll need financial assistance to pay for your degree, create a budget that outlines all of the costs you’ll incur with your program. Include tuition, fees, supplies, housing, transportation, and living expenses.
Submit the Free Application for Financial Aid (FAFSA) to determine the amount of federal financial aid you’re eligible to receive. Talk to your chosen school’s financial aid officer to learn about other financial aid options, such as grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study funds. Talk to your employer about any tuition assistance programs the company offers.
What Can You Expect From a Construction Management Program?
A construction management degree equips students with the practical tools and knowledge they need to manage construction projects from conception to completion. Coursework delves into the on-site facets of construction projects, including how to manage teams, organize projects, implement methods, create cost plans, and understand codes, blueprints, and legal issues.
As a full-time student, you can complete the program in four years, during which you will take both required and elective courses that cover the fundamentals and advanced topics you’ll need to succeed in the industry. During your degree program, you’ll engage in a variety of learning methods, including readings, laboratory exercises, 3D models, and site visits.
Potential courses you’ll take in a construction management degree program
- Construction Safety. This course introduces students to the OSHA-certified safety practices of the construction industry and how to implement them. They will learn the role of these practices, the procedures used, and the theories behind them.
- Construction Financial Management. Students will learn to utilize accounting and financial principles in the construction industry, including calculating the financial needs of projects and how accounting systems work. Topics include cash flow, budgeting, and labor costs.
- IT Project Management. This course covers the resources and tools used to schedule, track, and measure productivity. Students will learn to plan, organize, and manage information systems to guide the success of a project.
- Construction Management Integrated Laboratory. Students will complete the construction of a mockup building, including the fabrication, assembly, documentation, team organization, and quality control of a building project.
Construction Management Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to a construction management degree program?
To begin your application process, visit the school’s website and locate the application page for your chosen program. Through this link, you’ll be able to fill out an application form and submit all the required documents. These may include your most recent transcriptions, letters of recommendation, test scores, and personal statement or essay. Before submitting your application, speak with an admissions counselor to ensure you meet the requirements and submit the correct documents.
How much does a construction management degree cost?
The average tuition and fees for a bachelor’s degree is $16,618 per year. The total cost of your construction management degree will depend on the institution you choose, the degree requirements, whether you’re an in-state or out-of-state student, and whether you attend classes in person or online. When budgeting for your program, consider the additional costs you’ll incur, including housing, food, transportation, supplies, and extracurriculars. A financial aid counselor at your chosen school can provide a more detailed cost breakdown for your program.
How long does it take to earn a construction management degree?
A degree in construction management generally takes four years of full-time study to complete. Programs may vary in length depending on the institution, but most programs require between 120 and 187 credits. Online programs are available in both synchronous and asynchronous styles, meaning you can choose a structured class schedule or work toward your degree at your own speed. Most in-person students will follow a synchronous schedule, but you can ask an advisor about any asynchronous options available.