Construction Management
College of Engineering and Architecture
- Offered as:
- Major
- Minor
Overview
The construction management program prepares students to become construction managers or work in a management capacity in the construction industry. This program covers the wide variety of structures that make up the built environment, offering a focus on the properties of materials and construction systems, how materials are fabricated to produce buildings and other structures, and the business aspects of the construction industry.
[+] Strengths of the program
- Strong, broad-based instruction in business, construction, architecture, and engineering through the specific expertise of several WSU departments.
- This well-established program has developed a strong tradition in teaching about structures, technology, and problem-solving inherent to construction since its start at WSU more than 50 years ago.
- The program encourages you to develop an inquisitive and inventive mind to address complex construction methods and management techniques.
- WSU’s School of Architecture and Construction Management is a member of the Associated Schools of Construction, a national organization of universities with construction-oriented curricula.
- Accredited by the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE).
[+] Requirements and featured courses
The curriculum is organized into two parts. Pre-construction management occurs during the first year and is followed by a professional construction management curriculum in the last three years.
After fulfilling the requirements of the first year, all students must then apply for admission into the construction management program. Due to limitations of space and facilities, certification as a major in construction management can only be granted to a limited number of the most qualified students. Selection is based upon satisfaction of minimum requirements and overall grade point average.
Among the construction management courses you could take:
Structures I & II
Materials I & II
Substructures
Superstructures
Estimating
Surveying
Delivery Systems
Cost Estimation
Human Productivity in Construction
Find out more about the construction management program at the department's web page.
Note: See the WSU Catalog for degree requirements and talk with your academic advisor about planning and scheduling your courses. All students must meet requirements as outlined in the catalog in order to graduate.
[+] Scholarships and financial aid
For construction management majors
The College of Engineering and Architecture offers a limited number of scholarships to entering freshmen and transfer students in the School of Architecture and Construction Management. Once certified into the program, the school offers scholarships to students who are high academic achievers.
For all students
A variety of state, federal, and university-sponsored programs are available to help students with educational costs. Washington State University awards millions of dollars in financial aid and scholarships to students every year based on financial need, academic merit, or a combination of the two.
Students should complete the Washington State University general scholarship application and the FAFSA to ensure their eligibility for the widest range of scholarships and need-based financial aid.
For information or to apply for financial aid and scholarships from WSU, see the Scholarships and Finances section of the WSU website.
[+] Department facilities and technology
Carpenter Hall contains an architectural gallery, exceptional slide collections, and an architecture/construction management library.
The School of Architecture and Construction Management provides computer labs with state-of-the-art design and construction software.
[+] Campus organizations and activities
The Associated Students of Construction Management, which includes student chapters of the Associated General Contractors of America, the National Association of Home Builders, and the Design Build Institute of America, provides a link with professional associates. Teams often engage in regional competition, sponsor career fairs, and enjoy social activities.
The University also has a chapter of Sigma Lambda Chi, the construction honorary society.
[+] Suggested strengths, interests, and preparation
Curiosity about how structures are designed and built
An affinity for design, engineering, and management
Good math preparation
[+] Careers in construction management
The need for professionally educated construction managers has increased in recent years. The Associated General Contractors of America, the American Institute of Constructors, the Associated Builders and Contractors, the National Association of Home Builders, and various other national associations have urged universities to educate people at the university level for management positions in the large and rapidly expanding construction industry. WSU has responded to this need by continually expanding and strengthening its construction management program.
Many WSU graduates are recruited to positions in building construction or heavy engineering construction as project managers or field engineers. Others opt for positions with employers in real estate development, residential home building, or product sales. They may also work with private or public owners.
The program is accredited by the Associated Schools of Construction Education (ACCE).