Construction Practice & Management
Degrees Offered
Associate's in Applied Science. To learn more about this program visit our on line catalog.
Program Summary
Students in the Construction Practice and Management program prepare for career opportunities in the building industry, while receiving the academic instruction required for advancement in the field. Such careers are enormously satisfying to those who enjoy creative challenges and like to see the results of their work.
The program focuses on providing students with the technical knowledge and skills required to use new materials, new products, and new techniques. In addition, the curriculum develops business skills that are essential for managing complex construction projects in an increasingly competitive environment. Job outlook, according to the US Department of Labor, is good. The national average salary for Construction Management graduates is $42,000.
The program encourages enrollment among both recent high school graduates with limited experience in the construction field, and adults already employed in the building industry who want to prepare themselves for project management, estimation, and supervisory roles.
Areas of Study
The first year of the program focuses on the materials and methods of residential and commercial building construction. Students will also learn about:
- Drafting, print reading, CADD;
- Electrical and mechanical systems;
- Mathematics; and
- Physics.
"Nontraditional" students - primarily adults already working in the construction industry - may be able to receive credit for many of the first-year courses through satisfactory completion of equivalency examinations.
In the second year of the program, students acquire the management skills needed for supervisory positions in the building industry. Second-year students take courses in:
- Construction project management;
- Estimating;
- Surveying;
- Small business management and finance;
- Basic structural engineering; and
- Other related topics.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the program can qualify for a range of positions in the construction field including:
- Building materials representatives;
- Construction supervisors;
- Assistant project managers;
- Estimators;
- Entrepreneurs.
VTC graduates have continued their education in Business Technology and Management, Civil Engineering Technology, and other related areas. The Business Technology and Management program is a popular option for CPM students to complete their Bachelor's Degree.
Enrollment Options
The program encourages enrollment among both recent high school graduates with limited construction experience, and adults already employed in the building industry who are seeking the skills required for project management and supervisory rolls.
Prerequisites and Other Requirements
Students in this program are required to have their own hand tools and tool belt. Contact the program director or Admissions Office for details.
The minimum number of credits required for the associate's degree is 67.