construction management
Construction Management an industry-recognised qualification that provides you with the academic preparation you need for a career as a chartered builder. (Photo by Karen Ducey / Getty Images via AFP)

Construction management is not just about building sites: it’s about the bigger picture. If your ambition is to gain a senior site management role within the construction industry, a degree in Construction Management will set you on the right path. The programme covers it all — from project management, to quantity surveying, estimating, contract management, scheduling, facilities management, property development and certification. 

The degree provides knowledge of developments in urban cities, the increasing need for residential and commercial properties, and the renovation of elements of the built environment. Here, students learn about the effective procurement of built facilities and the growing imperative for sustainable development. 

Rapid urbanisation and population growth has seen the demand for construction professionals continue to expand globally. Here’s all you need to know about a degree in construction management. 

construction management

Construction management is not just about building sites: it’s about the bigger picture. Source: William West / AFP

What will I study?

You will learn about the immediate and long-lasting effect which construction activities have on the environment, and discover sustainable and environmentally sound construction methods and innovative management practices. Professionals in this field undertake a wide range of tasks, including: defining the scope, budget and schedule for a project; setting performance requirements and selecting project participants; and employing procurement methods to maximise the efficient use of resources (labour, materials, and equipment). 

The course provides the ideal balance of academic study with the application of professional skills and competencies. Major topic areas in Construction Management include: Project management; Procurement processes; Risk management; Cost estimation; Management of labour, materials, and equipment; and Infrastructure asset management. 

This is an industry-recognised qualification that provides you with the academic preparation you need for a career as a chartered builder. Most universities have strong industry links which mean you’ll learn from construction professionals and gain a practical understanding of the latest industry trends. Students graduate with a broader range of knowledge of the legal, technical, managerial, economic, social and environmental aspects of construction projects.

Between your second and final year, some universities may require you to carry out a paid industrial training placement, lasting a year or a shorter period. This experience not only provides you with an insight into industry, but is also a valuable opportunity to get to know a range of industry professionals.

construction management

Rapid urbanisation and population growth has seen the demand for construction professionals continue to expand globally. Source: Armend Nimani / AFP

What are the entry requirements? 

An undergraduate degree is generally completed between two to four years, depending on the pattern of study and any recognition of prior learning you may have. Most universities offer this degree as a three-year full-time programme. 

Depending on each institution, entry requirements vary. However, students must hold satisfactory results from either A-levels, IGCSE, GCSE, ILC Higher, IB Diploma or BTEC examinations. If English is not your first language, you must demonstrate proficiency in English. An IELTS score of 6.0, with no band below 5.5, should suffice. 

What are my career options?

As a graduate, you’ll be prepared for a rewarding career as a construction professional. Your industry knowledge combined with strong skills in problem-solving, decision-making, communication and technology, will prepare you for leadership roles across the full spectrum of construction projects.

Graduates of construction management go on to find employment in a wide range of areas, including commercial, industrial, residential, project management and contract administration. Studying Construction Management can prepare you for roles such as a site manager, construction manager, quantity surveyor, contract managers, property managers, building contractors and more.