There are many different construction degree programs available, including coursework leading to associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees. Although most programs are offered at colleges and universities, some are also available online. Qualified graduates can choose from a variety of job opportunities depending on their degree level.
Construction degree programs that lead to an associate’s degree or a two-year certification typically prepare students for entry-level jobs. Project estimation and construction aides are two common career options; most associate level graduates must be supervised by experienced personnel to avoid using improper construction techniques that can result in a weak structure. Basic construction techniques, from building codes to reading a building schematic, are usually covered in class.
A bachelor’s degree in construction adds to the knowledge gained from a two-year certificate. The majority of the coursework focuses on quality assurance, financial fundamentals, and management theories. Construction degree programs that last four years prepare workers for management positions rather than the assistant or manual labor jobs that a two-year degree can provide.
Graduate or master’s degree programs in construction focus on more abstract aspects of the industry, such as project planning and cost analysis. Employers want to know about the legalities surrounding a project to avoid lawsuits and improve safety regulations, so this coursework includes construction law. These employees may visit job sites on occasion, but the majority of their time is spent in offices analyzing project data.
Within construction degree programs, doctoral coursework typically focuses on researching project parameters and costs associated with the entire plan. These workers are responsible for keeping a project on budget, or under budget, while maintaining the structure’s and surrounding employees’ safety. A less expensive floor joist material, for example, may be available for purchase, but the worker with the doctorate must determine whether the less expensive material will compromise or enhance the structure’s overall integrity.
Rather than attending a traditional classroom setting, many associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs are available online. Many people who don’t have access to a local college can still earn a degree online. Aspiring construction professionals should be aware that master’s and doctorate degrees are not usually available online; they must enroll in a physical college degree program at a local university. Despite the fact that all construction degree programs offer different courses, each one emphasizes safety, as employees must be aware of all regulations regarding material use and handling; failure to adhere to these safety guidelines can result in injury or death.