Are you interested in building and creating new structures? Do you see yourself as a leader? If so, consider majoring in construction management in college. Construction management majors study the skills need to manage, coordinate and supervise entire construction projects.
Education
According to the College Board, construction management majors have the option of earning either an associate’s or a bachelor’s degree. High school courses including computer assisted drafting, business and AP Physics will help you prepare for your college education. This will include classes like blueprint reading, construction materials and systems, principles of management and labor law.
What to know before you apply
Before you decide on a school, find out whether you would prefer to go for your associate’s or bachelor’s degree. Not all colleges offer both options. Also, you should do some research about prospective professors. Have they had real-world, professional experience in the field? Will they understand how to teach theory and apply it to your career? Finally, you should know whether the program offers internship or job-shadowing opportunities. This will affect your post-grad life and your resumé.
Colleges offering this field of study
• Alfred State College: Alfred, N.Y.
• Lawrence Technological University: Southfield, Mich.
Salary
A degree in construction management will prepare your careers in architecture, civil engineering and construction management. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, architects earned an average of $79,300 per year in 2011, while civil engineers earned $82,710. Construction managers earned a yearly average of $93,900.
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