America is a country under constant construction, which makes a career in construction management a perennial. When a person already has a bachelor’s in construction degree, he or she may wonder if it’s a good idea to further his or her education. Specifically, he or she may wonder is a master’s in construction management worth it. Fortunately, if a person is looking for the answer to is a masters degree in construction management worth it, he or she will find that jobs pay higher with this particular degree. The construction management salary in the United States with a masters degree is quite high. In fact, an individual can make anywhere between $95,000 to $126,000 or possibly more.
Moreover, when a person is questioning is a masters in construction management worth it, he or she should consider the job market for this particular profession. Fortunately, the construction industry will continue to grow throughout the years. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that careers in this field are expected to grow from 2019 to 2029 by eight percent, which is a growth rate that’s higher than average in comparison to other professions.
Featured Programs
Methodology: Ranking the Best Construction Management Master’s Programs
To rank the best master’s in construction management programs, Great Business Schools editors focused on respected, accredited colleges and universities offering construction management master’s. Programs are ranked according to their tuition, student reviews, and salary potential.
1. Columbia University in the City of New York
Topping the list of the best construction management masters programs is the MS in Construction Administration from Columbia University. This program prepares students for successful careers in project leadership and construction management. Graduates find work with prestigious construction, engineering, and architecture firms, where they work on projects that make an impact in their communities. The program takes 3-4 terms to complete full-time or 6-10 terms part-time. This is an on-campus program, but some classes may be available online.
The School of Professional Studies at Columbia University uses knowledge to advance markets, communities, and careers. The school provides a challenging curriculum that is designed to meet the needs of the market and support students’ goals. SPS strives to develop innovative teaching methods and interdisciplinary thought leadership. The school is responsive, responsible, relevant, and rigorous.
Highlight Companies that have hired construction administration graduates include Turner, Tishman, AECOM, MTA, and the Port Authority of NY & NJ.
Degree MS in Construction Administration
2. Georgetown University
Next on the list of the best masters in construction management is the Master’s in Real Estate with a concentration in construction management from Georgetown University’s School of Continuing Studies. The required courses for this program include real estate fundamentals, real estate law, real estate finance, real estate marketing, and real estate accounting. Students study real estate markets around the country and throughout the world. They will explore issues such as affordable housing and sustainability. The program consists of 33 credits and is available both on campus and online.
The Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies helps students broaden their perspectives. Students are exposed to peers from around the world with differing views on many issues. This diversity exposes students to new experiences, backgrounds, and insights. Studies incorporate real-world experiences to help students achieve success beyond the classroom.
Highlight This program focuses solely on real estate, so students are immersed in the industry.
Degree Master’s in Real Estate: Construction Management
3. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Another of the best construction management masters programs is the MS in Building Construction Science and Management from Virginia Tech. This program offers research and advanced study in construction, building design, and operations. Graduates are prepared to embark on their construction careers or enter a Ph.D. program. The curriculum includes courses in business, design, and construction. It culminates in a thesis or a final exit exam, whichever the student chooses.
Bishop-Favrao Hall serves as the central meeting place for the Myers-Lawson School of Construction and the Department of Building Construction. The building was completed in 2007 and serves as an example of how building construction works. Structural elements of the building are exposed and labeled for educational purposes.
Highlight The industry track is for students who want a career in construction, engineering, or architecture and the research track is for those who want to explore problems on a more detailed level.
Degree MS in Building Construction Science and Management
4. Texas A&M University
One of the best masters in construction management degrees is the MS in Construction Management from Texas A&M University. The program is classified as a STEM program and appeals to a wide variety of students. Some are experienced construction workers who want to pursue an advanced education, while others are hoping to break into the construction field. Students have backgrounds in everything from engineering to architecture and even business. There is a thesis option and a non-thesis option, both of which take around two years to complete.
Texas A&M was the first public higher learning institution in the state of Texas. It is committed to training students to be the leaders of tomorrow.
Highlight This program is one of just five graduate construction management programs in the US to be accredited by the American Council for Construction Education.
Degree MS in Construction Management
5. Washington University in St. Louis
Another of the best construction management masters programs is the Master of Construction Management at Washington University in St. Louis. This program prepares students for jobs in building design and construction. There is a dual degree program for students who want to earn both an MArch and an MCM. The MCM program consists of 30 units and prepares students to be leaders in construction management. Students learn about quality management, risk, time, and cost as well as law, ethics, finance, and business. There is also a graduate certificate in construction management available.
Washington University in St. Louis encourages students to maintain their individuality and achieve great things. The school is dedicated to impact, discovery, exploration, and learning. Washington University strives to address the world’s challenges through knowledge and exploration. The school is committed to diversity, racial equality, and justice.
Highlight Students gain hands-on experience in the lab.
Degree Master of Construction Management
6. Clemson University
Next on the list of the best masters in construction management is the Master’s in Construction Science and Management from Clemson University. This program offers a comprehensive program of research activities, service, and education that improves the quality of talent entering the construction industry. The program gives students the experience they need to excel in the construction industry while preparing them to pursue careers in teaching if they desire to do so. The curriculum is flexible, and there is a thesis option as well as a non-thesis option.
The Nieri Family Department of Construction Science and Management has an overall retention rate of 92% and an overall job placement rate of 90%. That means that most students are able to find employment following graduation. The department’s programs lead to rewarding careers for its students.
Highlight This program has assistantship activities and the school assists with job placement after graduation.
Degree Master’s in Construction Science and Management
7. Michigan State University
The MS in Construction Management from Michigan State University is also one of the best construction management masters programs. The program prepares students to be leaders in residential and commercial construction. The construction management program has been around since 1948 and offers bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. degrees. It covers both the technical aspects of construction and the management aspects. Students take courses in safety and materials, business law, building codes, accounting, structural design, real estate, project management, scheduling, estimating, finance, contracts, and management.
The School of Planning, Design, and Construction offers programs in urban and regional planning, landscape architecture, interior design, and construction management. The school strives to provide a high-quality educational experience that encourages innovation and creativity. Its core values are excellence, culture, collaboration, and diversity.
Highlight The average starting salaries and placement rates for the construction management program are among the highest within the university.
Degree MS in Construction Management
8. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
The MS in Construction Engineering & Management from South Dakota Mines is one of the best masters in construction management available in the US. The program is affordable, user-friendly, and flexible enough to allow students to continue working while they pursue their degrees. The curriculum was designed to give students the skills and knowledge employers are looking for in the workforce. Students can choose electives that meet their career goals. The classes are available face-to-face, via livestream, and as recorded webinars.
The South Dakota School of Mines & Technology is dedicated to excellence in engineering and science research and academics. The school strives to prepare the next generation of leaders. It was founded in 1885 and offers a variety of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. The school is known for its great value, outstanding internship opportunities, personal attention, and STEM academics.
Highlight This program does not require a thesis or final exam.
Degree MS in Construction Engineering & Management
9. George Mason University
George Mason University’s MS in Real Estate Development with an emphasis in project management is another good program for students seeking the best construction management masters programs. The program is designed for real estate professionals who want to move into leadership roles in the industry. The curriculum is multidisciplinary, incorporating classes from public policy, engineering, and business. It was designed with input from leading real estate development companies. Students gain the skills and knowledge they need to move up in the real estate industry.
George Mason University is the largest public research university in Virginia, with $149 million in research performed in 2018. There are over 37,000 students from 130 countries around the world. 80% of George Mason’s graduates are working within six months after graduation.
Highlight This program is designed for professionals who work in real estate law, property management, mortgage lending, real estate finance, construction management, development, and other areas of real estate.
Degree MS in Real Estate Development: Project Management
10. Stevens Institute of Technology
Another of the best masters in construction management is the Master’s in Construction Engineering and Management from Stevens Institute of Technology. This program prepares students to lead major engineering projects all over the world. Students gain business management skills as well as construction management skills. They study safety and quality controls and learn how to manage time and cost constraints effectively. The program includes experiential learning and industry engagement. Graduates have the leadership skills they need to succeed in construction management.
Stevens Institute of Technology bills itself as “The Innovation University.” The school’s founding family revolutionized the engineering field and the school continues to build on that legacy. Faculty and students at Stevens create innovative solutions and applications for nanotechnology, medicine, finance, computing, artificial intelligence, and more.
Highlight The program is flexible and students can network with industry leaders through the school’s co-op program.
Degree Master in construction engineering and management
11. Northeastern University
The MS in Project Management with a concentration in construction management from Northeastern University is another option for students who are looking for the best construction management masters programs. Project management is extremely important in the construction industry. It takes a lot of effort to plan and execute a big construction project. The construction management concentration consists of four courses: introduction to construction management; alternative project delivery methods and project controls; safety, project risk, and quality management; and construction law.
The College of Professional Studies at Northeastern University provides flexible options to accommodate students’ busy schedules. The school embraces hands-on learning and gives students credit for the experience they already have. Hands-on educational opportunities are integrated into every class. This allows students to build their skills while solving real business problems.
Highlight Students can participate in experiential learning through the Experiential Network or the co-op program.
Degree MS in Project Management
12. Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Another of the best masters in construction management is the MS in Construction Project Management from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. This interdisciplinary program prepares students to lead the construction of complex projects through every stage from resource planning to completion. The program is practical but rigorous and is offered both online and on campus. The curriculum incorporates system dynamics, business and economics, management science, project management, and civil engineering. Students work with advisors to align the program to their career goals.
At Worcester Polytechnic Institute, students find not just a school but a community. They explore new ideas and solve real-world problems as they gain the skills they need to succeed in the real world. WPI’s approach to engineering and science education balances practice with theory. The curriculum is project based and the school strives to provide a quality student experience while positively impacting the community.
Highlight Students work closely with faculty members who are experienced in construction project management.
Degree MS in Construction Project Management
13. University of Miami
The MS in Construction Management from the University of Miami is another of the best construction management masters programs. This hands-on program offers a combination of business management and construction courses. It is designed to convert students into managers and leaders, with the knowledge and skills they need to make good decisions, deliver projects on time, and incorporate sustainability into their designs. The program is interdisciplinary and opens up a wide range of employment opportunities for the graduate.
The University of Miami is a diverse and vibrant academic community with over 17,000 students from all over the world. The school is one of the top research universities in the U.S. There are over 180 programs and majors offered through 11 colleges and schools.
Highlight Graduates work for architectural engineering firms, construction management firms, sub-contractors, real estate developers, and general contractors.
Degree MS in Construction Management
Featured Programs
14. Colorado State University
Next on the list of the best construction management masters programs is the MS in Construction Management from Colorado State University. This program is closely tied to the architecture, engineering, and construction industries. Students have opportunities to participate in applied research in those areas. The program has a strong focus on theory and research but also emphasizes project management. The curriculum includes virtual design and construction, sustainability and resilience, project delivery and management, infrastructure systems, and construction education and workforce development.
The Graduate School at Colorado State University’s mission is to provide the highest possible academic standards while helping students achieve their personal and professional goals. The school is known for its excellence in teaching and learning, its transformational research, and for the public service it performs both in its local community and around the world.
Highlight Students can tailor the program to suit their needs.
Degree MS in Construction Management
15. George Washington University
George Washington University offers an MS in Project Management that helps prepare students to manage major construction projects. The school strives to offer a state-of-the-art education that gives students the knowledge and skills they need to be effective practitioners, educators, and leaders in project management. Students gain a foundation in project management principles and learn the core skills of team building, communication, systems thinking, critical thinking, and problem solving. Students learn how to make complex decisions as they manage their construction projects.
The George Washington School of Business offers all of the advantages of a large private university with the feel and personal attention of a smaller school. The classes are small, so students can get the attention they need to succeed academically. GWSB has a global presence that provides an international perspective for its students, and the campus is located in Washington, D.C., which is extremely diverse.
Highlight All courses are offered online and on campus.
Degree MS in Project management
16. Illinois State University
Illinois State University offers an MS in Technology with a focus on project management. This program teaches students how to manage a project step by step to completion. Project management is a general skill that is used in many areas of business, including construction. Every construction project needs to be managed by someone who understands how to plan and implement a project. To qualify for the project management program, student must have a bachelor’s degree and have a minimum GPA of 3.25 for the last 60 hours of undergraduate courses completed.
Illinois State University is a diverse community of students and faculty that is committed to maintaining a small college feel while offering the advantages of a large university.
Highlight Illinois State University offers graduate assistantships, which provide a 100% tuition waiver plus either a stipend or an hourly wage.
Degree MS in Technology: Project Management
17. Thomas Jefferson University
Next on the list of the best masters in construction management is the MS in Construction Management from Thomas Jefferson University. This STEM program provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to plan and manage every stage of a construction project, whether commercial, residential, or infrastructure. Students gain a practice-based understanding of engineering, architecture, business, and technology as they learn to manage a construction project from idea to completion. They gain experience in construction activities and software programs.
Thomas Jefferson University changes lives by encouraging student innovation. Recent innovations include 3D printing, a financial literacy club, healing headphones, and clothing that improves your posture. Thomas Jefferson’s curriculum enables students to dream bigger and create new and better ways of doing things.
Highlight Every class is offered both online and on campus to give students the flexibility to complete the program on their own terms.
Degree MS in Construction Management
18. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers an MS in Project Management that provides students with the knowledge and skills they need to manage complex construction projects. The program starts by giving students a solid foundation in business philosophies and practices and then moves into teaching students how to manage projects, from the defining stage, to implementing, and finally, to evaluation. The curriculum emphasizes goal setting, motivation and communication, managing project scope, and successfully completing a project on time and on budget.
At Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, student success is of the utmost importance. The school is committed to helping students connect with their peers and to providing hands-on learning experiences. The school’s faculty helps students at every step along the way as they strive to reach their academic and professional goals.
Highlight Graduates get a 12-month reduction in the amount of project management work experience needed to seek Project Management Professional certification.
Degree MS in Project Management
19. New York University
The MS in Construction Management from New York University is another of the best construction management masters programs. This program provides a foundation of knowledge in legal, business, finance, technology, and management principles. Students learn how to control a project’s scope, maximize budgets, and avoid costly delays. They gain the experience they need to become effective leaders in the construction industry. Students learn the importance of communication and learn to apply financial, planning, technological, and organization tools to their projects.
The Tandon School of Engineering has over 5,000 students, including more than 2,600 graduate students, from more than 90 countries around the world. 97% of the school’s bachelor’s students receive job offers or continue on to graduate school within six months and 29% of their starting salaries are higher than the national average for STEM graduates.
Highlight Students must complete 30 credits in order to complete the MS in Construction Management.
Degree MS in Construction Management
20. Kent State University
Another of the best masters in construction management is the MS in Construction Management from Kent State University. This program is designed for construction professionals who want to become leaders in the architecture-engineering-construction industry. It teaches students to manage construction projects from start to finish. Students have opportunities for hands-on learning while collaborating with design practitioners, construction professionals, and construction and design academics. There are networking events, team collaborations, and job site visits.
The College of Architecture and Environmental Design at Kent State University is committed to creating responsible professionals who will enhance the environment and improve the quality of life through sound design. Students learn the principles of environmental design as well as gaining knowledge of procedures and materials.
Highlight The program consists of 35 semester hours and has a thesis option as well as a non-thesis option.
Degree MS in Construction Management
21. Wentworth Institute of Technology
Next on the list of the best construction management masters programs is the MS in Construction Management from Wentworth Institute of Technology. This is the only MS in Construction Management in New England that is accredited by the American Council for Construction Education. The program prepares students for a lucrative career in construction management. Students benefit from hands-on learning experiences that allow them to learn by doing. They learn to manage the entire construction process, from pre-design to project close-out.
Wentworth Institute of Technology refers to itself as “the university of now.” The school believes that today’s actions determine tomorrow’s future, and it provides plenty of hands-on learning opportunities for its students. 96% of Wentworth’s 2019 graduates were able to find employment in their field with a median starting salary of $64,000.
Highlight 100% of Wentworth’s 2019 MS Construction Management graduates are employed full-time with a median salary of $65,000.
Degree MS in Construction Management
22. Manhattan College
Another of the best masters in construction management is the MS in Construction Management from Manhattan College. Students learn how to plan, budget, coordinate, and supervise construction projects from beginning to end. The program requires 33 credits and is designed for students who have bachelor’s degrees in business, science, or engineering with work experience in construction, whether they have been working in the field for many years or are just getting started. Graduates are ready to advance their careers in construction management or pursue a more advanced degree.
Manhattan College is a Catholic college located in The Bronx. The school has over 3,800 students and a 12:1 student-faculty ratio. The average class has just 23 students.
Highlight Due to its location in New York City, Manhattan College has a network of construction management experts who speak to students on a regular basis.
Degree MS in Construction Management
23. Roger Williams University
The MS in Construction Management from Roger Williams University is another of the best construction management masters programs. This program consists of 30 credits and can be completed in just one year. The program focuses on results. Students learn to plan and execute complex construction projects. They learn how to manage interdisciplinary teams and optimize change in the global marketplace. Students gain problem-solving and research skills that help them succeed in the real world. Required classes include fundamentals of construction management and sustainable construction.
Roger Williams University was named after a 17th-century leader who was devoted to social justice and freedom of conscience. The school pursues excellence in education, community service, and academic accomplishment. Roger Williams’ focus on innovation, inclusiveness, critical thinking, and intellectual exchange form the basis of the school’s core purpose.
Highlight This program can be completed full-time or part-time in a blended format with on-campus and online coursework.
Degree MS in Construction Management
24. Lasell College
Lasell College offers an MS in Project Management that teaches students how to manage large construction projects. The curriculum was developed with the input of industry leaders, focusing on the expected growth in utilities, oil and gas, manufacturing, information services, finance and insurance, construction, and business services. It prepares students to pursue certifications in RMP, PMP, and PMI. Students learn how to use tools such as Microsoft Project 2019. In addition to construction managers, graduates are qualified for careers as project managers, program managers, and project engineers.
Lasell College sets careers in motion. The school strives to provide the skills students need and enable them to make connections that will help them succeed. There are six start dates each year, and there is no GRE or GMAT required. The school provides career services for its graduate students.
Highlight Small classes are guaranteed. All classes are capped at 23 students.
Degree MS in Project management
25. Everglades University
Another of the best masters in construction management is the Master of Construction Management from Everglades University. This program is designed for students who want to land upper-level management positions in the construction industry. Students learn to apply theoretical knowledge and concepts and use an analytical decision-making process to solve complicated problems. The curriculum is challenging and includes courses such as legal aspects in construction, construction productivity, construction cost analysis and financial control, and construction claims.
Everglades University strives to provide a high-quality education to working professionals. It offers a collaborative learning environment that enables each student to grow as a person. The school keeps its class sizes small. It incorporates traditional academic values with innovative new programs to help students succeed. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs both online and on campus.
Highlight The program consists of 36 credits and can be completed in one year.
Degree Master of Construction Management
Is a Construction Management Master’s Better than a Certification?
Obviously, when a person compares a construction management certificate vs degree, a masters degree in construction management is better than a certificate because it’s a higher level of education. As a person compares a construction management certificate vs. degree, he or she should know that a construction management degree, a degree takes several years to obtain while a certification can be completed in a matter of months. A person will learn more and more varied information when he or she undergoes a master’s degree program. He or she will also be qualified for more positions and have an easier time getting a prospective employer, or even his or her current employer, to notice him or her.
However, a certificate is still beneficial because it gives a person additional knowledge and shows a current or prospective employer that he or she is serious about his or her education. Fortunately, a person can earn a construction management certificate online. When a person earns a construction management certificate online, he or she doesn’t have to worry about the commute. He or she doesn’t have to worry about sitting in class at a designated time with construction certifications online. In some cases, with construction certifications online, a person can earn the certification on his o her time. Plus, with a construction management certification online, a person can further his or her education and career in little time. A person can also choose to specialize with a construction management certification online, or he or she earn multiple certifications to really enhance his or her scope of practice.
What Can I Do with a Master’s in Construction Management?
As a person considers what jobs in construction management he or she can obtain, a job in construction management that sticks out is the construction project manager. A person could also find a job in construction management as a commercial project manager or subcontractor manager. Construction management jobs entry level are available in these types of fields, However, some of the positions aren’t available as construction management jobs entry level; it just depends on the company’s specific requirements. A person may be more likely to obtain construction management roles at their current role if they earn a masters degree in construction management.
Careers in construction management go beyond construction. For instance, one of the careers in construction management that a person could obtain is with a real estate company. For example, one of the careers in construction management that a person could take on is a real estate construction manager. A person could also become a district property manager or a real estate developer, as other options for construction management roles.
These aren’t the only construction manager degree jobs, though. In fact, another area of construction management degree jobs is cost estimators. These construction management roles allow a person to work alongside contractors, service providers, or manufacturers to estimate the cost of supplies. Construction management roles in this field are opportunities for a person to estimate costs of labor, materials, money, and time for projects.
Other construction management roles are in big businesses. For example, construction management roles can even include a person being the CEO of a company. Job titles in construction management could also include civil engineers. Every one of these job titles in construction management allows a person to play a vital role. However, a person should consider the construction job title hierarchy when thinking about job titles in construction management and what can I do with a master’s in construction management. Certain titles like CEO are at the top of the construction job title hierarchy, as a person investigates more into what can I do with a masters in construction management.
Carrie Morris
Author
Warren Dahl
Editor-in-Chief