A four-year college degree, as well as some construction industry experience, are required to begin a career in construction management. Two-year degrees are acceptable if they are combined with relevant work experience. A master’s degree is usually required for construction management positions on extremely large job sites, such as a shopping center. In addition, some future managers may choose to test for a United States certification in order to increase their attractiveness to employers.
From directing daily job site work to ensuring adequate supply levels, a construction management position entails a wide range of responsibilities. Because many of these positions require a four-year college degree in a construction-related field, you must have one. Civil engineering and building science are two common degrees earned. Those who earn these degrees should be familiar with construction laws and regulations, which will aid them in managing projects in a safe and productive manner.
A two-year degree in construction technology could be an alternative college course path. For future construction management applicants, construction basics are taught throughout this major; however, most students work and attend school at the same time to gain both textbook and hands-on experience. Although a two-year degree can lead to management positions, many large construction companies prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree.
Some of the most successful construction managers began their careers as laborers on the job. Getting hands-on experience is a practical way to become a manager; however, in today’s competitive construction industry, internal promotions may not be as readily available as they once were. An experienced job site worker, on the other hand, can earn a four-year college degree while working, ensuring that both education and work experience are noted on the resume.
Construction management jobs aren’t just for small-scale residential or commercial projects. In fact, some project managers are in charge of large construction sites or even multiple projects in a single location. A master’s degree in construction science or management is usually required for these professionals. To ensure daily safety and productivity, the large amount of work and specific details involved at large construction sites necessitate a highly educated individual as the leader.
Although certification as a construction management professional is not required in the United States, many people choose to take the test in order to gain more negotiating power during the hiring process. The written exam covers all aspects of job site management, from practical tool usage to regional structural regulations. Individual states do not require a separate certification for this certification to be accepted across the United States.