Building a Future: Bachelor of Science in Construction Management

As the single-largest industry in the U.S., there's noconstruction supervisors and workers.
doubt that construction plays a pivotal role in theHeavy Equipment Operators. Construction
nation's economy. After all, without heavyequipment operators use machinery to move
equipment, construction equipment operators, andheavy materials such as earth and construction
building inspectors, we wouldn't have anyequipment. Typical responsibilities include operating
skyscrapers, freeways, apartment buildings, orequipment such as bulldozers, as well as using
bridges. So, when it comes to getting in on someroad graders and tamping equipment to build
of the hottest careers around, this industry willroads and other large structures. With relatively
always provide more than its share ofhigh hourly pay and a good job outlook, this could
employment opportunities. In fact, the U.S. Bureaube a great career option if you're interested in
of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts thatearning a Bachelor of Science in Construction
employment opportunities for constructionManagement.
managers will exceed the number of qualifiedShow Me the Money
candidates from now through 2014.So you may be wondering, "How much do these
That said - a construction management degreejobs actually pay?" Well, that depends on a lot of
may be the best way to break into this lucrativefactors. Pay for these positions will vary based on
field.the size and nature of the construction project,
Construction Management Degrees: Paving theits geographic location, and economic conditions.
Way to SuccessBut according to the BLS, median annual earnings
Many colleges, universities and technical schoolsof construction managers as of May 2004 were
are now offering a Bachelor of Science in$69,870. The middle 50 percent earned between
Construction Management. This type of$53,430 and $92,350. The lowest-paid 10 percent
construction management degree is designed toearned less than $42,120. And according to a July
provide a foundation in construction management,2005 salary survey by the National Association of
techniques, and legal issues relating to the field.Colleges and Employers, candidates with a
Areas of study can include building codes, siteBachelor of Science in Construction Management
construction and measurement, projectreceived job offers averaging $42,923 a year -
management, construction safety management,right out of school.
and more. Instruction on mechanical systems andSome of the courses you can expect to take
materials are also typically included in thesewhile getting your construction management
programs.degree include:
Here is a closer look at some of the jobs you can• Project Management • Statics
land with a Bachelor of Science in Constructionand Strength of Materials • Building
Management:Codes • Project Scheduling •
Building Inspectors. In this position, your priority willCost Estimating and Analysis • Legal
be keeping buildings safe and up to code. You'llIssues in Construction
double-check repairs, alterations, and constructionIf this sounds good to you, it's time to start
of buildings and other structures to make surefinding a place to get your degree. If you'd like to
they are in compliance with local, state, andget a Bachelor of Science in Construction
federal ordinances and zoning laws.Management but just don't have the time or
Construction Manager. If you enjoy planning andfreedom for traditional classes, keep in mind that
coordinating, this is the job for you. Frommany schools now let you get your entire
construction superintendent - to project engineer -construction management degree online. If this is
to general construction manager - you'll be thethe way you want to go, be sure and check out
glue that holds an entire project together. Youthe programs at each of the colleges you're
may plan and direct a single project, or manageinterested in.
pieces of a larger project. Basically, you'll oversee