Master of Science in Construction Management
Purdue University's online Master of Science in Construction Management merges construction project execution with executive management skills. Led by industry-experienced faculty, the program prepares students to excel in general and executive construction management. Tailored for the construction sector, it mirrors an MBA while providing sector-specific skills. Ideal for those with a relevant bachelor's degree and two years of related experience, this flexible online program helps professionals achieve career growth in a 24-month timeline.
Master of Science in Construction Management
Purdue University’s online Master of Science in Construction Management merges construction project execution with executive management skills. Led by industry-experienced faculty, the program prepares students to excel in general and executive construction management. Tailored for the construction sector, it mirrors an MBA while providing sector-specific skills. Ideal for those with a relevant bachelor’s degree and two years of related experience, this flexible online program helps professionals achieve career growth in a 24-month timeline.
Master of Science in Construction Management Overview
Purdue University’s 100% online Master of Science in Construction Management (MSCM) is designed to prepare professionals for leadership roles in the construction industry. This program offers a unique blend of advanced technical knowledge and executive-level management skills, equipping students to oversee complex projects, streamline operations and drive innovation within their organizations. With a curriculum focused on leading construction projects and company-level strategy, the MSCM program emphasizes critical topics like risk management, cost analysis, project delivery methods and sustainability in construction.
Courses are taught by experienced faculty and industry practitioners, ensuring that students gain both academic and real-world expertise. In addition, the program includes the option to earn a 12-credit Executive Construction Management Graduate Certificate, which can serve as a stand-alone credential or be applied toward the master’s degree, providing a streamlined pathway for career advancement.
Advanced Construction Management Expertise
Students will develop a deep understanding of construction management at the executive level, focusing on project planning, cost control, risk management, and company operations. The program emphasizes strategic thinking and equips professionals to manage complex construction projects and lead organizations effectively.
Real-World Application through Industry Projects
Engage in practical, industry-focused coursework that mirrors real-world scenarios. Students will tackle challenges in areas like project delivery methods, sustainability and advanced construction techniques. These experiences provide the skills needed to solve current industry issues and drive innovation in the construction field.
Expand Your Expertise with a Graduate Certificate
Students can also pursue Purdue University’s Executive Construction Management Graduate Certificate alongside the master’s degree. This credential focuses on advanced management practices and can be applied toward the full master’s degree. By earning both the certificate and the master’s, professionals can enhance their expertise and position themselves for leadership roles within the construction industry, particularly in executive management.
For many professionals, earning a master’s degree can provide a big return-on-investment. In addition to financial benefits like salary increases and promotions, master’s degrees also help professionals learn in-demand skills, which can improve their job prospects, help them pivot to a new industry, or help them stay competitive in a rapidly changing market.
Many employers value the advanced skills that master’s programs teach, and research shows that job candidates with master’s degrees have average salary increases from 25% to more than 75% in select fields. Ask your enrollment counselor for details on Purdue’s online master’s programs or learn more about the benefits of earning a master’s here.
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The cost of attending Purdue varies depending on where you choose to live, enrollment in a specific program or college, food and travel expenses, and other variables. The Office of the Bursar website shows estimated costs for the current aid year for students by semester and academic year. These amounts are used in determining a student’s estimated eligibility for financial aid. You can also use our tuition calculator to estimate tuition costs.
More information on courses and faculty can be found at the program website.
Degree Required Courses
- CM 55000 – Risk Management in Construction
- CM 52500 – Managing Construction Quality and Production
- CM 53000 – Construction Operations and Strategic Management
- CM 58100 – Sustainable Site Development
- CM 54500 – Construction Management Training and Development
- CM 55500 – Construction Leadership and Marketing
- CM 53500 – Construction Accounting and Financial Management
- CM 54000 – Law for Construction Managers
- CM 52000 – Preconstruction Project Management
- CM 58100 – Real Estate Development Process
- CM 58100 – Value Engineering & Visualization for Sustainability
- CM 58100 – Advanced Study of Facilities Systems
- CM 58100 – Advanced Facilities Management
The admissions process selects highly qualified applicants into the MS program by considering each of the following criteria in judging the overall strength of the applicant. Typically, no single criterion is used as a sole determinant for admission.
- A bachelor’s degree in construction management, civil engineering, or a closely related field is recommended.
- An undergraduate grade point average of 3.00 or better (on a 4.00 scale) from an accredited institution is required for unconditional admission.
- Minimum of two years of experience in the construction industry is required.
- English Proficiency is required, please see here for more information.
Source: LightcastTM (2025). Unique job postings for July 2024-25. Projected growth for years 2019-2029.
Top Job Titles
Construction management supports a wide range of leadership and technical roles that ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards. These include Engineering Managers, Project Engineers, and Project Managers, each overseeing critical aspects of planning, coordination, and execution. Additionally, Directors of Engineering and Engineers play essential roles in guiding project strategy, managing teams, and delivering structurally sound and compliant construction outcomes.
Top Industries
Several major industries offer meaningful career opportunities for professionals in construction management. These include Engineering Services, Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing, each relying on skilled managers to support complex projects and ensure efficient operations. Additionally, Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools provide pathways for those involved in training, education, and the development of future construction and engineering professionals.
From stay-at-home mom to director of preconstruction
Carlyn McClelland knows that success does not follow a predictable path. After all, her own career journey has had more than its fair share of twists and turns. From going to trade school as a stay-at-home mom to pivoting her construction career and earning her master’s degree in construction management online after a life-altering injury, McClelland’s unlikely journey has made her a voice for change within the construction industry.
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