Your guide to the construction management major

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Key takeaways about a construction management major

A construction management major blends engineering, business, and leadership.
Typical courses cover project management, cost estimating, and building codes.
Internships and certifications are important for real-world prep.
Careers range from project manager to sustainability consultant.
Salaries are strong, especially with experience and licensing.

So, what is a construction management major?

Think of a construction management major as the business brain behind the building process. While architects design and engineers focus on the technical side, construction managers keep projects on track—budget, schedule, safety, and teamwork. As a major, it’s perfect for students who want to be leaders in shaping everything from skyscrapers to sports stadiums.

Scout College Search can help you explore schools offering this degree.

Construction management major vs. civil engineering

It’s easy to confuse construction management with civil engineering, but they’re different. Civil engineers design the infrastructure—bridges, roads, tunnels—using math-heavy analysis. Construction managers, on the other hand, oversee the actual building process. If you’re more into organizing teams, managing resources, and solving on-the-ground challenges, construction management might fit better.

Why choose construction management?

If you like the idea of blending problem-solving with people skills, this major hits the sweet spot. You’ll graduate with leadership skills that can apply in booming industries like renewable energy and urban development. Plus, the job outlook is strong—the demand for construction managers continues to grow as cities expand and rebuild.

Typical courses for a construction management major

Expect to take classes that give you both technical and business know-how. Some common courses include:

Project planning and scheduling
Construction methods and materials
Cost estimating and budgeting
Building codes and safety regulations
Contracts and construction law

These classes make sure you’re just as comfortable reading blueprints as negotiating with contractors.

Common double majors and minors to pair with construction management

Pairing your construction management major with another field can give you an edge. Popular options include:

Business administration: for students eyeing executive roles.
Architecture: for a creative-meets-practical combo.
Civil engineering: for deeper technical knowledge.
Environmental science: if you’re drawn to green building and sustainability.

Construction management internships and real-world experience

Construction is hands-on, and so is the major. Most programs require (or at least strongly recommend) internships. These can be with construction firms, design-build companies, or government projects. They help you test your skills, make connections, and sometimes land a full-time role after graduation.

You can also explore scholarships to support your degree. Check out scholarships for construction management majors and the Scholly Scholarship tool.

Certificates and licensing for construction management

While a bachelor’s degree is usually enough to start, certifications can boost your career. Examples include:

LEED accreditation: for sustainability-focused managers.
Certified Construction Manager (CCM): a respected industry credential.
OSHA safety certifications: showing you take safety seriously.

Some states may also require licensing if you’re running your own projects.

Popular careers for construction management majors

Graduates can land in roles such as:

Construction project manager
Cost estimator
Site engineer
Sustainability consultant
Facilities manager

Many eventually move into executive positions or start their own construction firms.

How much will I earn with a construction management degree?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for construction managers is about $107,000, with most earning between $65,000 and $177,000. Cost estimators, another common career path, earn a median of around $77,000. Your pay will depend on experience, location, and certifications, but many grads see strong earning potential as they advance.

Notable schools for construction management majors

Some universities are especially well known for strong construction management programs. Notable schools include:

Use Scout College Search to find programs that fit your goals and location.

Wrapping it up

A construction management major is for students who want to lead, organize, and build the spaces we live and work in. It’s practical, rewarding, and comes with plenty of career opportunities. And with resources like Scholly Scholarships, scholarships by major, and the $2,000 No Essay Scholarship, funding your degree is more within reach than you might think.