Forbes listed construction management among the ’15 Most Valuable College Majors’ as well as the ’20 Best Paying Jobs for People Persons’.
It’s a suitable career choice for you if you are generally interested in building and design. It’ll provide you with an opportunity to focus on a wide range of responsibilities; architectural planning, civil engineering, cost estimating and carpentry. Essentially you’ll be able to work through the various stages involved in a construction project.
In order to apply for a construction management role, you’ll be required to have formal education. As a very first step, you may consider enrolling in an associate degree in construction management.
What are the program objectives?
Associate degree in construction management provides a fundamental understanding of all the aspects involved in commercial and residential construction projects and equips the students with the managerial and leadership skills that may prove helpful in overseeing a construction project.
The program objectives may vary from one university to another. However you’ll generally learn:
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About the history of various forms of construction methods, project sequencing, documentation and communication and the use of data collection methods such as surveys in residential as well as commercial construction projects.
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Leadership and management skills essential for overseeing a construction project
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To take into account the safety measures in a construction project. This may include sudden accidents, emergency response plans, and environmental safety
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Basic computer skills and understanding of information systems
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Fundamental skills in mathematics, data analysis, as well as college level algebra
Take the first steps on the path to becoming a construction manager by getting an associate degree in construction management. 
What will I study?
There tend to be variations in the names and types of courses that are offered at different universities. However, in order to ensure that students develop a well rounded knowledge base, a combination of general education and construction management courses are offered. Look through the details of the following courses in order to get a general idea of what you’ll study:
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Introduction to Computers
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Principals of Public Speaking
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College Mathematics
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Introduction to Construction
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Safety Planning and International Development
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Drawings and Specifications
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Construction Materials and Methods
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Cost Estimating
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Project Scheduling
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Field Supervision
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Sustainability Management
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Project Management
Why should I pursue the degree online?
Online education has several benefits over conventional campus based programs. These include:
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You can study from virtually any location
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You’ll be able to cut down on travel expenses
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You can hold onto a job while you study
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There is a lot of flexibility and you can study at your own pace
Online programs are generally equally rigorous in terms of the curriculum and program structure. If you wish to score well, you’ll be required to remain consistent and make all submissions on time. Moreover, before you enroll in a distance learning program, you should check the accreditation status of the institute and program as well as the credentials of the faculty.
What are the admission requirements?
Admission eligibility criteria and process may vary across different universities. However the general requirements are:
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High School Diploma or GED
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Official Transcripts
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Letters of Recommendations
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Statement of Intent
What are some relevant career opportunities?
The associate program prepares students for entry level positions in construction management and other related organizations. You may seek employment in industries such as home building as well as commercial and heavy highway construction.
Job opportunities
Construction and Building Inspectors
These professionals rely on their engineering skills to assess structural soundness, and compliance with building standards and codes.
Median wages (2013): $54,450 annual
First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers
They plan, coordinate and oversee all activities of construction and extraction workers. Supervisors may have to deal with unforeseen situations and emergencies.
Median wages (2013): $60,380 annual
Cost Estimators
They rely on forecasting strategies to prepare cost estimates for construction projects. Cost estimators work in collaboration with the management and other concerned departments.
Median wages (2013): $59,460 annual
*All figures taken from O Net Online.
The exact level of compensation and eligibility criteria may vary from one employer to another. Therefore you should check the specific requirements of the companies that you wish to work for. Some employers also consider work experience and effective communication and analytical skills as a plus.
Alternatively some students go on to further their education in the field of construction management. The credits from an associate degree may be transferred towards a bachelor degree in construction management. A bachelor’s degree will qualify you for more advanced managerial positions.