Degree for Construction Manager: What to Study (2025)

Last Updated on October 3, 2025 by Admin

The construction management field is booming—and if you’re researching how to break in, you’re asking the right questions. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, construction managers earn a median salary of $106,980 and the field is growing 9% through 2034, much faster than average occupations. But here’s what really matters: the right degree can fast-track your career, increase your starting salary by 20-35%, and open doors at major construction firms that won’t budge without formal education.

The stakes are real. Choose the traditional four-year construction management degree and you’ll start earning $65,000-$75,000 right out of college. Skip the degree and rely on experience alone? You’re looking at 10-15 years of grinding through trades before reaching the same management level. This guide cuts through the noise with current data from federal labor statistics, insights from ACCE-accredited programs, and real experiences from construction professionals who’ve walked both paths. Whether you’re a high school senior, skilled tradesperson, military veteran using the GI Bill, or career changer, you’ll learn exactly which educational path fits your situation and maximizes your earning potential.

The construction industry offers multiple legitimate pathways to management—but some are significantly faster and more lucrative than others. Let’s break down what actually works in 2025.

What degree do you need to be a construction manager?

The short answer: a bachelor’s degree in construction management, civil engineering, or a related field has become the industry standard for large construction firms, though alternative pathways still exist.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics employment outlook reports that most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in construction science, construction management, architecture, or engineering. Here’s the reality from 2025 hiring data: major construction companies now list bachelor’s degrees as required or strongly preferred for project manager and construction manager positions.

But the picture is more nuanced than a simple yes-or-no. While a four-year degree opens doors faster, you don’t legally need a degree to become a construction manager—no state requires licensure for this role. The construction industry still values proven field experience, which means skilled tradespeople can advance to management through dedication and time.

Education paths that lead to construction management

Traditional four-year degrees:

• Bachelor of Science in Construction Management (most direct path)
• Civil Engineering degree
• Architecture degree
• Business Administration with a construction concentration

Accelerated options:

• Associate’s degree in Construction Management (2 years)
• Online bachelor’s programs for working professionals
• Master’s in Construction Management (for career changers with bachelor’s in other fields)

Experience-based pathways:

• Trade apprenticeship → foreman → superintendent → manager
• Military construction experience → civilian management roles
• Professional certifications (CCM, PMP) combined with field experience

The most successful construction managers often combine formal education with hands-on field experience. According to research on construction management careers, professionals who complete internships during their degree programs have 55-75% higher job placement rates with their internship employers.

Bachelor’s degree in construction management: curriculum and requirements

Accredited construction management programs provide comprehensive training that blends technical construction knowledge with business and management skills. 72 bachelor’s degree programs currently hold accreditation from the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE), the gold standard for CM education.

Core curriculum breakdown

ACCE-accredited programs must ensure graduates can demonstrate 20 specific competencies. Your four-year journey (typically 120-130 credit hours) covers:

Technical construction courses:

• Construction methods, materials, and equipment
• Blueprint reading and construction drawing
• Building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing)
• Surveying and site layout
• Building codes and regulations
• Sustainable construction and LEED principles

Management and business:

• Project scheduling using CPM, Primavera P6, and MS Project
• Cost estimating and quantity takeoffs
• Contract administration and construction law
• Construction accounting and finance
• Quality control and assurance
• Safety management and OSHA compliance

Technology applications:

• Building Information Modeling (BIM) with Revit and AutoCAD
• Construction management software platforms
• 4D simulation and clash detection
• Emerging construction technologies

Top-ranked accredited programs

Arizona State University offers both on-campus and online BS in Construction Management and Technology, holding both ACCE and ABET accreditation. The program features 100+ industry partnerships and includes a comprehensive capstone project. Graduates don’t receive diplomas marked “online,” making the remote option attractive for working adults.

Texas A&M University operates the largest construction science program nationally, with unique opportunities like the “Constructionarium” study abroad experience, where students build actual structures.

Purdue University stands out by requiring 800 hours of construction-related internship experience—significantly more than most programs—plus study abroad options in Ireland, China, England, and Australia.

Other consistently top-ranked programs include Virginia Tech, Auburn University, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, University of Florida, and Michigan State University. When evaluating programs, prioritize ACCE accreditation, internship requirements, and regional industry connections over simple rankings.

Admission requirements for CM programs

GPA expectations: Most programs require a 2.5-3.0 cumulative GPA for admission, with competitive programs like Colorado State University requiring a 2.75 Pre-CM GPA specifically in prerequisite courses.

Math preparation is critical: You’ll need college algebra or precalculus as a minimum, with many programs requiring calculus readiness. Physics with lab is commonly required. If you’re weak in math, start addressing that gap immediately—it’s the #1 stumbling block for aspiring construction managers.

Application materials typically include official transcripts, personal essay, 2-3 letters of recommendation, and increasingly optional SAT/ACT scores.

Internships and capstone requirements

Nearly all quality programs mandate 400-800 hours of internship experience. These aren’t optional add-ons—they’re often credit-bearing courses that provide the hands-on training bridging classroom theory to real-world practice.

You’ll work alongside project coordinators, assist with cost estimation and scheduling, organize project documentation, and participate in safety planning. According to forum discussions on ContractorTalk and ElectricalTalk, internships matter more for employment than your GPA—they’re your extended job interview with potential employers.

Senior capstone projects challenge you to apply your entire education to comprehensive real-world scenarios. Teams typically tackle actual permitted construction projects not yet built, creating full cost estimates, CPM schedules, safety plans, site logistics, BIM models, and risk assessments before presenting to panels of industry professionals.

Alternative degree paths to construction management

Civil engineering: the technical powerhouse

Civil engineering provides arguably the strongest technical foundation for construction management. The key question: Should you pursue civil engineering or construction management?

Civil engineering focuses on:

• Structural analysis and design
• Engineering mechanics and materials science
• Infrastructure systems (roads, bridges, water systems)
• Theoretical and math-intensive coursework
• Professional Engineer (PE) license pathway

Construction management emphasizes:

• Site management and coordination
• Contractor and subcontractor relations
• Scheduling and budget control
• Practical application over theory
• Business and management skills

Civil engineers can absolutely transition to construction management—it happens frequently. You’ll bring valuable technical credibility, understanding structural requirements and can bridge design and construction teams effectively. However, you’ll need to develop project management, contractor coordination, and business skills through experience or additional training.

The salary comparison: Civil engineers earn a median of $88,050-$102,320, while experienced construction managers reach $106,980-$153,851 depending on location and specialization. Both fields offer excellent prospects, but construction manager salaries in the USA typically surpass civil engineering compensation at senior levels.

Business degrees with a construction focus

Several universities offer Bachelor of Business Administration degrees with construction management concentrations, combining core business fundamentals (accounting, finance, economics, marketing) with construction-specific courses (estimating, scheduling, methods, materials).

This hybrid approach excels for students interested in eventually owning construction companies or reaching executive leadership. You’ll graduate with broader business skills applicable beyond construction while still gaining essential industry knowledge. Programs at Lamar University, Indiana Tech, and Liberty University follow this model.

Architecture degrees: design meets construction

Architects transitioning to construction management bring strong visualization skills, deep understanding of building systems, and expertise with design software. The five-year Bachelor of Architecture provides intensive training that creates value in specific construction roles:

• Design managers on design-build projects
• BIM managers and coordinators
• Pursuit and proposal managers
• Design-build liaison positions

The downside? You’re potentially over-educated for many entry-level construction management positions, and architecture programs require significantly more time and money than CM degrees. This path makes most sense if you’re already invested in architecture and want to pivot toward the construction side.

Project management degrees: the flexible option

Bachelor’s or master’s degrees in project management provide strong methodological foundations applicable to construction. You’ll master scheduling, risk management, stakeholder communication, and budget control—all critical for construction managers.

The gap? You’ll need to learn construction-specific knowledge through work experience or supplemental training: building codes, construction methods, trade coordination, and site safety requirements. Combining a project management degree with PMP certification positions you well for construction project management roles, especially if you can gain field experience quickly.

Associate’s degrees and online construction management programs

Two-year construction management pathways

ACCE accredits 14 associate’s degree programs nationwide, offering faster, more affordable entry to construction management. These 60-credit programs typically cost $10,000-$30,000 total and can be completed in two years.

Standout programs include:

• Aims Community College (Greeley, CO) – hands-on learning with state-of-the-art equipment and BIM focus
• Central Piedmont Community College (Charlotte, NC) – AAS in Construction Management Technology with industry scholarships
• Northampton Community College (Bethlehem, PA) – reports 80% of graduates employed in construction
• Portland Community College (Portland, OR) – evening program for working professionals

Many associate programs establish “2+2” articulation agreements with four-year institutions, allowing seamless transfer of credits. You can complete your associate’s degree, start working immediately at $65,000-$80,000 annually, then finish your bachelor’s later while your employer potentially covers tuition.

Online bachelor’s programs for working professionals

Online construction management degrees have matured significantly, with major universities now offering fully accredited programs indistinguishable from on-campus degrees.

Louisiana State University Online provides an ACCE-accredited BS in Construction Management (123-125 credit hours) established in 1972. The program includes OSHA certification opportunities and a business administration minor option.

Arizona State University Online delivers the same ACCE and ABET-accredited degree as their on-campus program. Diplomas don’t specify “online,” and students complete 120 credit hours over 40 classes at their own pace (7.5-15 weeks per class).

Rowan University Online designed their BA in Construction Management specifically for working adults, apprentices, and journeypersons. Through partnerships with North America’s Building Trades Unions, they provide credit for prior learning and union apprenticeships, allowing completion in as little as two years with transfer credits.

University of Oklahoma Online offers a 30-60 credit hour completion program requiring 60 hours of previous college credit and one year of commercial construction experience. At $515 per credit hour, total program costs range $15,450-$30,900.

Cost comparison: Making the numbers work

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average construction management bachelor’s degree costs $60,808 without financial aid but drops to $35,096 with financial aid—a 42% reduction. In-state public universities offer the best value:

Online programs through established universities typically cost similar to on-campus tuition but eliminate housing expenses and allow you to continue working.

Construction manager salary: how your degree impacts earnings

The financial case for a construction management degree is compelling: degree holders earn 20-35% more starting salary and reach six-figure incomes 5-7 years faster than experience-only professionals.

Current salary data (2025)

Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data (May 2024) and current salary platforms:

National median: $106,980 annually ($51.43/hour)

Salary range by experience:

• Entry-level (0-1 years): $60,000-$75,000
• Early career (1-4 years): $75,000-$90,000
• Mid-career (5-9 years): $90,000-$115,000
• Experienced (10-19 years): $110,000-$140,000
• Senior/Executive (20+ years): $140,000-$188,000+

Top-paying states:

• Alaska: $143,450
• New York Metro: $161,470
• California: $135,000-$145,000
• Massachusetts: $130,000-$140,000

Degree vs. no degree: lifetime earnings comparison

With bachelor’s degree: Starting at $65,000, reaching $90,000-$100,000 by year 5, $110,000-$130,000 by year 10. Estimated 40-year career earnings: $5.4 million.

Without degree (experience-only): Starting at $35,000-$45,000 in trades, reaching $55,000-$65,000 by year 5, $75,000-$90,000 by year 10. Estimated 40-year career earnings: $3.6 million.

Lifetime earnings gap: approximately $1.8 million—even accounting for four years of degree costs and delayed earnings.

Return on investment calculation

With the average financial aid package, your $35,096 degree investment breaks even in just 1.3 years after graduation based on the $27,500 average annual salary premium. Even without financial aid ($60,808 total cost), you break even in 2.2 years. Very few educational investments deliver comparable returns.

Certification salary boost

Professional certifications compound your degree’s value:

• CCM (Certified Construction Manager): 10% salary increase (~$10,000-$12,000 annually)
• PMP (Project Management Professional): 33% salary premium (~$25,000 annually over non-certified PMs)
• LEED AP: Growing premium for sustainable building projects

For detailed information about construction manager job responsibilities and comprehensive compensation data, explore the complete role breakdown, including day-to-day duties and career requirements.

Do you need a degree? Alternative pathways explained

The construction industry still rewards proven field expertise—you absolutely can become a construction manager without a formal degree, but expect a longer, more challenging path.

Trade to management progression

The typical trajectory requires 10-15 years of progressive experience:

1. Construction worker/laborer (years 1-2)
2. Skilled trade position (years 3-5)
3. Crew leader/foreman (years 6-8)
4. Assistant construction manager (years 9-11)
5. Construction manager (years 12-15)

This path works best for self-employed general contractors and smaller construction firms. Large national contractors increasingly require degrees for management positions, though exceptions exist for exceptional candidates with extensive experience.

Apprenticeship programs: earn while you learn

The U.S. Department of Labor actively supports 197,000+ registered construction apprentices—a 72% increase over eight years. These 2-4 year programs combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction, resulting in nationally recognized credentials.

You’ll earn progressively higher wages while learning carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, ironworking, or other trades. After completing your apprenticeship, you can advance toward supervision and management roles while earning income the entire time—no student debt required.

Resources include Apprenticeship.gov, local union programs, Building Pathways, and Helmets to Hardhats for veterans.

Essential certifications without degrees

CCM (Certified Construction Manager) from CMAA demonstrates professional competency even without a four-year degree. Alternative eligibility paths include:

• 2-year degree + 4 years field experience + 4 years responsible-in-charge experience
• 8 years field experience + 4 years responsible-in-charge experience
• CACM certification + appropriate experience

The comprehensive 400-question exam covers project management, cost control, scheduling, contracts, safety, and sustainability. CCM holders earn approximately 10% more than non-certified managers and the credential is increasingly required for major projects.

PMP (Project Management Professional) from PMI doesn’t require a construction-specific degree:

• With bachelor’s degree: 36 months project management experience + 35 hours PM education
• Without bachelor’s degree: 60 months project management experience + 35 hours PM education

PMP certification commands a 33% salary premium and applies across all industries including construction.

OSHA 30-Hour Construction provides essential safety credentials. While technically “completion cards” rather than certification, the 30-hour course is increasingly required or preferred for construction supervisors and managers. You’ll master fall protection, electrical hazards, scaffolding, excavations, and other critical safety topics.

For comprehensive details on advancing through construction management career levels, including education requirements at each stage, review the complete career progression framework.

Military veterans: leveraging GI Bill benefits

The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides exceptional value for veterans pursuing construction management degrees:

• Full tuition coverage at public in-state universities
• Monthly housing allowance based on BAH rates
• Books and supplies stipend
• Up to 48 months of benefits

You can apply GI Bill benefits to bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, certificate programs, or even construction apprenticeships where you’ll receive monthly housing allowances in addition to your apprenticeship wages.

Military construction experience transfers well: Seabees, Army Corps of Engineers, Air Force Civil Engineering, and military construction managers all bring valuable leadership, project management, and technical skills. Programs like Helmets to Hardhats and SkillBridge specifically connect transitioning service members with construction apprenticeships and careers.

Choosing the best degree for your construction management career

Decision framework by career stage

High school seniors: Traditional four-year CM degree provides the fastest path to management roles with lowest lifetime cost. Apply to ACCE-accredited programs with strong entry-level construction management job placement rates.

Community college students: Complete your associate’s degree in construction management, start working immediately at $65,000-$80,000, then finish your bachelor’s online while gaining experience. Many employers offer tuition assistance for degree completion.

Skilled tradespeople: If you have 7+ years field experience, consider online bachelor’s completion programs designed for working professionals (like Northern Michigan University or Rowan University). Alternatively, focus on CCM certification to validate your expertise.

Civil engineering students: Your degree opens construction management doors—supplement with construction management coursework, internships at construction firms, and PMP certification. Consider a construction management master’s degree to formalize the transition.

Military veterans: Maximize your GI Bill by choosing a quality ACCE-accredited program. Helmets to Hardhats can connect you with paid apprenticeships that work alongside degree programs.

Career changers: Master’s degree in construction management (1.5-2 years) provides faster entry than second bachelor’s degree. Alternatively, leverage transferable project management skills with PMP certification and target entry-level construction coordinator or assistant project manager roles.

Accreditation matters

Always prioritize ACCE or ABET accreditation. The American Council for Construction Education maintains rigorous standards ensuring programs deliver 20 specific student learning outcomes. Graduates from ACCE programs earn higher starting salaries ($62,000-$71,000 vs. $56,000 average), receive preference from major construction firms, and qualify more easily for professional certifications.

Check the official ACCE directory of accredited programs before committing to any program.

What really matters: Real-world insights

Forum discussions on Reddit, ContractorTalk, and ElectricalTalk reveal consistent themes from practicing construction managers:

“I did both—Construction Management and Apprenticeship. In the end, the apprenticeship taught me what I really needed to know. The college part can teach you different systems to run a project more efficiently and professionally. However, your day-to-day experience in the field will dictate how fast you advance.”

The consensus: Field experience is non-negotiable. The degree accelerates your timeline and opens doors to larger firms, but without hands-on construction knowledge, you’ll struggle. Prioritize programs with mandatory 400-800 hour internships and plan to work construction jobs during summers.

Internships matter more than GPA. The 55-75% of students accepting full-time offers from their internship companies aren’t accidents—treat your internship as an extended job interview.

Network aggressively. Construction remains a relationship-driven industry. Join student chapters of AGC (Associated General Contractors), CMAA (Construction Management Association of America), and attend industry events.

Your construction management education strategy

Construction management offers exceptional career prospects: 9% job growth through 2034, 46,800 annual job openings, a median salary of $106,980, and lifetime earnings approaching $5.4 million for degree holders. The industry faces persistent labor shortages and an aging workforce, creating strong demand for qualified managers.

Your optimal path depends on your current situation, but the data is clear: formal education combined with hands-on experience delivers the best outcomes. A bachelor’s degree in construction management from an ACCE-accredited program provides the fastest route to management roles, highest starting salaries, and greatest career flexibility. The 1.3-2.2 year return on investment makes it among the best educational investments available.

Alternative pathways remain viable—civil engineering, architecture, business degrees, military experience, trade progressions, and experience-based advancement all work. Success requires combining whatever educational foundation you choose with genuine field experience, professional certifications, strong networks, and commitment to continuous learning.

Start by researching ACCE-accredited programs in your target geography, calculating realistic costs with financial aid, and planning 2-3 summer internships. If you’re already working in construction, explore online completion programs or focus on CCM/PMP certifications to formalize your expertise. Veterans should maximize GI Bill benefits at quality programs.

The construction industry needs you—infrastructure investment, population growth, and energy efficiency retrofits ensure decades of robust demand. With the right education and determination, you can reach six-figure earnings within a decade while building the physical infrastructure society depends on.

Ready to start building your construction management career? Explore our comprehensive guide on how to become a construction manager for step-by-step guidance on education requirements, skill development, and certification pathways. The foundation you lay now determines the career you’ll build.

Related Posts:

• Introduction to Construction Careers
• Tips and Strategies to Excel in Your Construction Management Degree Program
• Your Complete Guide to Construction Business Management Degree
• A Comprehensive Guide to Civil Engineering Online Degrees and Courses

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)