Construction Management Master of Science Degree

Advance into leadership positions with this engaging construction management master’s degree.


100%

Outcome Rate of RIT Graduates from this degree

88K+

Annual Salary for these Jobs

11%

Employment Growth in this Field

40%

Demand Growth for Quality Control


Overview for Construction Management MS

Construction management jobs will grow 11% by 2030, double the overall labor market growth. Review our curriculum and you’ll find program fulfills the in-demand skills and expertise posted in job listings by employers in this fast-growing and high-demand field.

The master of science degree in construction management is specifically designed for experienced construction management professionals interested in advancing into leadership positions within the field. The program may also accommodate recent graduates of undergraduate programs in construction management or related disciplines. The program is offered entirely online.

Aging U.S. Infrastructure Creates High Demand for Construction Managers

America’s infrastructure is challenged. Clogged roads, unsafe pipes, aging bridges and railways, limited broadband access, and so much more.

But what you may not have thought or heard as much about is the enormous infrastructure workforce challenge facing the country. The Brookings Institute’s 2018 estimates show that nearly 17.2 million workers—or about 12 percent of all workers nationally—are employed in infrastructure jobs. And, they note, that just as our physical infrastructure systems are aging and in need of attention, so too are the workers who design, construct, operate, and manage these systems.

A Construction Management Degree Offered Exclusively Online 

The master of science in construction management provides a depth and breadth in the managerial, technological, economic, and environmental aspects of construction. With an emphasis on operations and company-level management, this advanced degree from RIT offers courses to enhance understanding in construction, facilities management, and related fields.

Designed for working professionals, this degree is offered 100% online. It’s a flexible degree that provides the requisite strategic skills to lead and advance in the industry. You will develop competencies in the context of the field in leadership, innovative technology, cost analysis and control, operations management and productivity, business development, and client relationship building. The curriculum includes core courses, professional electives, and a choice of a thesis, capstone project, or comprehensive exam.

In-demand areas include construction project management, facilities management, environmental health and safety management, and business management and leadership. The program focuses on developing the skills that are most in-demand for construction managers, and yield premium salaries, such as: 

Contract Management: Contract management skills yield a salary premium in the marketplace, and demand for contract preparation skills is growing by 60%.

Project Management: Project management skills are requested in 60% of postings for construction managers.

Facilities Management: Demand for occupational health and safety skills is growing by 19%.

Quality: Demand for quality assurance and control skills is growing by 40%.


Students are also interested in: Business Administration MBA, Architecture M.Arch.

This program is offered exclusively online.
Loading...

Careers and Cooperative Education

Cooperative Education

What makes an RIT education exceptional? It’s the ability to complete relevant, hands-on career experience. At the graduate level, and paired with an advanced degree, cooperative education and internships give you the unparalleled credentials that truly set you apart. Learn more about graduate co-op and how it provides you with the career experience employers look for in their next top hires.

Cooperative education is optional but strongly encouraged for graduate students in the construction management MS degree.

Curriculum for 2023-2024 for Construction Management MS

Current Students: See Curriculum Requirements

Construction Management (comprehensive exam completion path), MS degree, typical course sequence

Course Sem. Cr. Hrs.
First Year
CONM-650
Principles of Construction Leadership and Management
Introduction to leadership and management principles applicable to the construction industry including those associated with strategic planning, construction processes, communications, ethical behavior, human resources development, financial management, and risk management. There will be an emphasis on safety and loss prevention management, insurance and risk management, marketing construction services, and bonding requirements for construction companies. (This course is restricted to CONSMGT-MS students.) Lecture 3 (Fall).
3
CONM-690
Sustainable Building Design and Construction
Course material will focus on the design, engineering, and construction of sustainable buildings and how the construction manager guides the project team to meet the owner’s objectives of a sustainable facility. Students will explore the primary differences and similarities between the different green building rating systems. Students will critically assess and prepare written communications regarding the current and evolving practices, and potentials of sustainable building construction and design and prepare them with the skills to determine value-to-cost differences between “green” and conventional designs. Students may receive credit for this course or CVET-505, not both. Lecture 3 (Spring).
3
CONM-718
Construction Operations and Productivity
A study of construction operations with emphasis on productivity enhancement focusing on an integrated approach to planning, modeling, analysis, and design of construction operations. This includes productivity concepts; data collection; analysis of productivity data and factors affecting productivity; means for improving production and study of productivity improvement programs. (This course is restricted to CONSMGT-MS students.) Lecture 3 (Fall).
3
CONM-661
Construction Cost Analysis and Management
An introduction to direct cost estimating for construction projects. The estimating techniques covered include quantity take-off, labor productivity, and pricing (labor, material, and equipment). Drawings, sketches, and specifications are used as a basis for developing quantities involving site work, concrete, masonry, steel, carpentry, and finishes. Students also use software tools to aid in developing takeoff quantities. Different estimate structures and various types of estimates are examined. Direct and indirect construction costs are explored along with approaches for estimating overhead costs and profit. Topics include a logistical study of pre-construction cost analysis and construction management procedures, including conceptual estimating, project cost analysis and control, value engineering, life-cycle costing, feasibility studies, project financial and economic modeling, and quantitative risk analysis techniques. Students may receive credit for only this course or CVET-561, not both. Lecture 3 (Spring).
3
GRCS-701
Research Methods
This is an introductory graduate-level survey course on research design/methods and analysis. The course provides a broad overview of the process and practices of research in applied contexts. Content includes principles and techniques of research design, sampling, data collection, and analysis including the nature of evidence, types of research, defining research questions, sampling techniques, data collection, data analysis, issues concerning human subjects and research ethics, and challenges associated with conducting research in real-world contexts. The analysis component of the course provides an understanding of statistical methodology used to collect and interpret data found in research as well as how to read and interpret data collection instruments. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).
3
 
Professional Electives
6
Second Year
CONM-760
Construction Client Development
This course introduces and develops techniques for construction client development, including: the structured sales approach; the referral system; building upon successful projects; exploring how satisfied clients can contribute to winning future construction contracts; the cost and the value of keeping all stakeholders satisfied; the requisite skills for successful construction project sales and how they differ from other professions in the organization. Students will analyze case studies of successful and unsuccessful construction contracts. (Prerequisites: CONM-650 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall).
3
CONM-795
Comprehensive Exam
A written comprehensive exam is one of the non-thesis methodologies for completion of the MS degree. This course will provide a forum for independent review of the main concepts of the program core subject areas. The student will take a written examination at the conclusion of the course and must receive a passing grade of at least 80% to be successful. Students will have one additional opportunity to pass this examination if their initial attempt is unsuccessful. (Enrollment in this course requires permission from the department offering the course.) Comp Exam 3 (Fall).
0
 
Professional Electives
6
Total Semester Credit Hours
30

Construction Management (graduate capstone project completion path), MS degree, typical course sequence

Course Sem. Cr. Hrs.
First Year
CONM-650
Principles of Construction Leadership and Management
Introduction to leadership and management principles applicable to the construction industry including those associated with strategic planning, construction processes, communications, ethical behavior, human resources development, financial management, and risk management. There will be an emphasis on safety and loss prevention management, insurance and risk management, marketing construction services, and bonding requirements for construction companies. (This course is restricted to CONSMGT-MS students.) Lecture 3 (Fall).
3
CONM-690
Sustainable Building Design and Construction
Course material will focus on the design, engineering, and construction of sustainable buildings and how the construction manager guides the project team to meet the owner’s objectives of a sustainable facility. Students will explore the primary differences and similarities between the different green building rating systems. Students will critically assess and prepare written communications regarding the current and evolving practices, and potentials of sustainable building construction and design and prepare them with the skills to determine value-to-cost differences between “green” and conventional designs. Students may receive credit for this course or CVET-505, not both. Lecture 3 (Spring).
3
CONM-718
Construction Operations and Productivity
A study of construction operations with emphasis on productivity enhancement focusing on an integrated approach to planning, modeling, analysis, and design of construction operations. This includes productivity concepts; data collection; analysis of productivity data and factors affecting productivity; means for improving production and study of productivity improvement programs. (This course is restricted to CONSMGT-MS students.) Lecture 3 (Fall).
3
CONM-661
Construction Cost Analysis and Management
An introduction to direct cost estimating for construction projects. The estimating techniques covered include quantity take-off, labor productivity, and pricing (labor, material, and equipment). Drawings, sketches, and specifications are used as a basis for developing quantities involving site work, concrete, masonry, steel, carpentry, and finishes. Students also use software tools to aid in developing takeoff quantities. Different estimate structures and various types of estimates are examined. Direct and indirect construction costs are explored along with approaches for estimating overhead costs and profit. Topics include a logistical study of pre-construction cost analysis and construction management procedures, including conceptual estimating, project cost analysis and control, value engineering, life-cycle costing, feasibility studies, project financial and economic modeling, and quantitative risk analysis techniques. Students may receive credit for only this course or CVET-561, not both. Lecture 3 (Spring).
3
GRCS-701
Research Methods
This is an introductory graduate-level survey course on research design/methods and analysis. The course provides a broad overview of the process and practices of research in applied contexts. Content includes principles and techniques of research design, sampling, data collection, and analysis including the nature of evidence, types of research, defining research questions, sampling techniques, data collection, data analysis, issues concerning human subjects and research ethics, and challenges associated with conducting research in real-world contexts. The analysis component of the course provides an understanding of statistical methodology used to collect and interpret data found in research as well as how to read and interpret data collection instruments. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).
3
 
Professional Electives
6
Second Year
CONM-760
Construction Client Development
This course introduces and develops techniques for construction client development, including: the structured sales approach; the referral system; building upon successful projects; exploring how satisfied clients can contribute to winning future construction contracts; the cost and the value of keeping all stakeholders satisfied; the requisite skills for successful construction project sales and how they differ from other professions in the organization. Students will analyze case studies of successful and unsuccessful construction contracts. (Prerequisites: CONM-650 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall).
3
CONM-797
Graduate Project
This course provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate their capabilities developed through their course of study to design, develop and/or evaluate a construction management related project culminating in a written report or manuscript and presentation. (Prerequisite: GRCS-701 or equivalent course.) Project 3 (Biannual).
3
 
Professional Elective
3
Total Semester Credit Hours
30

Construction Management (thesis completion path), MS degree, typical course sequence

Course Sem. Cr. Hrs.
First Year
CONM-650
Principles of Construction Leadership and Management
Introduction to leadership and management principles applicable to the construction industry including those associated with strategic planning, construction processes, communications, ethical behavior, human resources development, financial management, and risk management. There will be an emphasis on safety and loss prevention management, insurance and risk management, marketing construction services, and bonding requirements for construction companies. (This course is restricted to CONSMGT-MS students.) Lecture 3 (Fall).
3
CONM-690
Sustainable Building Design and Construction
Course material will focus on the design, engineering, and construction of sustainable buildings and how the construction manager guides the project team to meet the owner’s objectives of a sustainable facility. Students will explore the primary differences and similarities between the different green building rating systems. Students will critically assess and prepare written communications regarding the current and evolving practices, and potentials of sustainable building construction and design and prepare them with the skills to determine value-to-cost differences between “green” and conventional designs. Students may receive credit for this course or CVET-505, not both. Lecture 3 (Spring).
3
CONM-718
Construction Operations and Productivity
A study of construction operations with emphasis on productivity enhancement focusing on an integrated approach to planning, modeling, analysis, and design of construction operations. This includes productivity concepts; data collection; analysis of productivity data and factors affecting productivity; means for improving production and study of productivity improvement programs. (This course is restricted to CONSMGT-MS students.) Lecture 3 (Fall).
3
CONM-661
Construction Cost Analysis and Management
An introduction to direct cost estimating for construction projects. The estimating techniques covered include quantity take-off, labor productivity, and pricing (labor, material, and equipment). Drawings, sketches, and specifications are used as a basis for developing quantities involving site work, concrete, masonry, steel, carpentry, and finishes. Students also use software tools to aid in developing takeoff quantities. Different estimate structures and various types of estimates are examined. Direct and indirect construction costs are explored along with approaches for estimating overhead costs and profit. Topics include a logistical study of pre-construction cost analysis and construction management procedures, including conceptual estimating, project cost analysis and control, value engineering, life-cycle costing, feasibility studies, project financial and economic modeling, and quantitative risk analysis techniques. Students may receive credit for only this course or CVET-561, not both. Lecture 3 (Spring).
3
CONM-788
Thesis Planning
Students will rigorously develop their thesis research ideas, conduct literature reviews, identify and plan methodologies, prepare schedules, and gain a clear understanding of the expectations of the faculty and the discipline. Each student will be required to prepare a committee approved thesis research proposal and may begin work on their thesis. (Prerequisite: GRCS-701 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring).
3
GRCS-701
Research Methods
This is an introductory graduate-level survey course on research design/methods and analysis. The course provides a broad overview of the process and practices of research in applied contexts. Content includes principles and techniques of research design, sampling, data collection, and analysis including the nature of evidence, types of research, defining research questions, sampling techniques, data collection, data analysis, issues concerning human subjects and research ethics, and challenges associated with conducting research in real-world contexts. The analysis component of the course provides an understanding of statistical methodology used to collect and interpret data found in research as well as how to read and interpret data collection instruments. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).
3
 
Professional Elective
3
Second Year
CONM-760
Construction Client Development
This course introduces and develops techniques for construction client development, including: the structured sales approach; the referral system; building upon successful projects; exploring how satisfied clients can contribute to winning future construction contracts; the cost and the value of keeping all stakeholders satisfied; the requisite skills for successful construction project sales and how they differ from other professions in the organization. Students will analyze case studies of successful and unsuccessful construction contracts. (Prerequisites: CONM-650 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall).
3
CONM-790
Thesis
The graduate thesis is a formal research document that empirically relates theory with practice. A formal written thesis and oral defense are required. (Prerequisites: CONM-788 or equivalent course.) Thesis 3 (Spring).
3
 
Professional Elective
3
Total Semester Credit Hours
30

Note for online students

The frequency of required and elective course offerings in the online program will vary, semester by semester, and will not always match the information presented here. Online students are advised to seek guidance from the listed program contact when developing their individual program course schedule.

Admissions and Financial Aid

This program is available exclusively online.

Offered Admit Term(s) Application Deadline STEM Designated
Full‑time Fall or Spring Rolling No
Part‑time Fall or Spring Rolling No

Full-time study is 9+ semester credit hours. Part-time study is 1‑8 semester credit hours. RIT will not issue a student visa for programs offered exclusively online.

Application Details

To be considered for admission to the Construction Management MS program, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:

  • Complete an online graduate application
  • Submit copies of official transcript(s) (in English) of all previously completed undergraduate and graduate course work, including any transfer credit earned.
  • Hold a baccalaureate degree (or US equivalent) from an accredited university or college.
  • A recommended minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent) in construction management, civil engineering, civil engineering technology, or a related program that includes at least 15 semester hours of college-level math and science. Applicants holding other bachelor's degrees with appropriate, related work experience will be considered for admission on an individual basis.
  • Submit a current resume or curriculum vitae.
  • Submit a personal statement of educational objectives.
  • Submit two letters of recommendation.
  • Entrance exam requirements: None
  • Writing samples are optional.
  • Submit English language test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic), if required. Details are below.

English Language Test Scores

International applicants whose native language is not English must submit one of the following official English language test scores. Some international applicants may be considered for an English test requirement waiver.

TOEFL IELTS PTE Academic
79 6.5 60

International students below the minimum requirement may be considered for conditional admission. Each program requires balanced sub-scores when determining an applicant’s need for additional English language courses.

How to Apply Start or Manage Your Application

Cost and Financial Aid

An RIT graduate degree is an investment with lifelong returns. Graduate tuition varies by degree, the number of credits taken per semester, and delivery method. View the general cost of attendance or estimate the cost of your graduate degree.

A combination of sources can help fund your graduate degree. Learn how to fund your degree

Additional Information

Additional English Language Test Score Accepted

TOEFL, IELTS, or CET-4 is accepted. For CET-4, an overall score of 530 is required (Reading ≥ 180, Writing ≥ 160, Listening ≥190).

Bridge Courses

If academic and/or work preparation is needed before being admitted and beginning graduate studies, applicants are encouraged to develop a plan with the program chair. Preparatory course(s) may be completed at RIT, or with pre-approval may be completed at other universities. Each course must be completed with a grade of B or higher.

Online Degree Information

Courses are a blend of synchronous and asynchronous, depending on the preference of the instructor. Synchronous courses are offered in the evening, between 5-8 pm, ET. For students who are unable to attend courses during this time due to their work schedule and/or time zone, sessions will be recorded and shared by request and faculty will work with students to be sure material is not missed. Full-time students can take 3 or 4 courses each semester, allowing them to graduate in 1.5 years. Part-time students usually take two courses each semester and can graduate in 2.5 years. Students need to take 6 required courses and 2 to 4 professional electives depending on the exit strategy they choose. For specific details about the delivery format and learning experience, contact the Program Contact listed on this page. The program offers three exit strategies: exam, capstone project, or thesis. RIT does not offer student visas for online study.

Online Tuition Eligibility
The online Construction Management MS is a designated online degree program that is billed at a 43% discount from our on campus rate. View the current online tuition rate.

Online Study Restrictions for Some International Students

Certain countries are subject to comprehensive embargoes under US Export Controls, which prohibit virtually ALL exports, imports, and other transactions without a license or other US Government authorization. Learners from the Crimea region of the Ukraine, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and Syria may not register for RIT online courses. Nor may individuals on the United States Treasury Department’s list of Specially Designated Nationals or the United States Commerce Department’s table of Deny Orders. By registering for RIT online courses, you represent and warrant that you are not located in, under the control of, or a national or resident of any such country or on any such list.