The cheapest online construction management degrees help students build the necessary skills to work as construction managers. They learn to manage budgets, expenses, and even workers on construction sites. The programs also teach them to handle delays, unmet deadlines, and safety concerns.
Since these programs are online, they are more affordable and convenient. Where can you find the most affordable online construction management degree? This article will discuss the cheapest online schools for Construction Management to help you make an informed decision.
Can I Get a Construction Management Degree Online?
Yes, you can get a construction management degree online. Lots of schools offer construction management degrees at both graduate and undergraduate levels. You have the option to choose between a synchronous or asynchronous learning method for your online program.
Why Should I Get a Construction Management Degree Online?
You should get a construction management degree online because it is quite convenient. It is suitable for students, working professionals, and even parents who want to focus on other things as well as studying. Online programs are flexible, so students can choose their study time. Assignments and exams happen online, so you do not need to be present in person.
Another reason to get a construction management degree online is the fact that it saves you money. College is expensive. You have to pay for tuition, accommodation, and other miscellaneous fees. An online degree reduces the cost of education significantly because you no longer need to pay for accommodation and other accompanying fees on campus.
What Are the Most Affordable Online Construction Management Degree Programs in the US?
The most affordable online construction management degree program is the Online Associate of Applied Science in Construction Management from Renton Technical College. No matter the program you choose, they offer the same curriculum as on-campus programs. This is why students receive the same degree regardless of the learning method chosen.
Cheapest Construction Management Degree Programs Online That Will Help You Stand Out
- Online Associate of Applied Science in Construction Management
- Online Associate of Applied Science in Construction Management
- Online Bachelor of Science in Construction Management
- Online Bachelor of Arts in Construction Management
- Online Master of Science in Construction Management
How Much Does an Online Construction Management Degree Cost?
Online construction management degrees cost anywhere from $119.13/credit to more than $900/credit, depending on the program. The cost of an online construction management degree can range from $6,000 to $28,000 per year. Public schools and associate degree programs are often cheaper. Private universities cost a lot more, even for online programs.
Most online construction management degrees require around 60 credits for associate degrees, 120 credits for bachelor’s degrees, and 30 credits for master’s degrees. The cost of the program also includes course materials, technology fees, application fees, and fees relating to standardized tests for the program.
Will Getting a Construction Management Degree Online Save Me Money?
Yes, getting a construction management degree online will save you money. The cost of getting an online degree is relatively cheaper than traditional degrees. This is mostly because students don’t need to pay for accommodation, transportation, and other costs associated with traditional degrees. You also don’t need to relocate to campus, which reduces expenses as well.
It can cost around $38,496 on average for an online degree as an in-state student, according to the Education Data Initiative, and out-of-state students spend an average of $54,183. Some schools offer flat-rate tuition for both residents of the state and others, so the cost is relatively lower.
Compared to a traditional degree, where the cost can be more than double this figure, an online construction management degree can save you money. You do not need to make trips to the school campus whenever there is a lecture, as you can simply turn on your computer from home and join remotely.
Online Construction Management Programs vs In-Person Construction Management Programs
Online construction management programs offer a lot of benefits, and this is the same for in-person programs. This section considers the benefits of both learning methods to help you make an informed decision.
Benefits of an Online Construction Management Degree
- Less stressful. With an online construction management degree, you do not need to go to campus for classes. While this reduces transportation costs, it also means you’ll have a relaxed mind ready to learn. This can be beneficial to students that are easily affected by stress.
- Reduced cost. While an online degree is not free, it greatly reduces your total expenditure for college. It does not include fees for accommodation, transportation, relocation, and other miscellaneous expenses that come from studying in person. What is left to pay can be covered by funds from working.
- An opportunity to transition. Online degrees meet the needs of working professionals. This allows them to continue to work while pursuing a degree. You do not need to quit your current job to go to school. All you need to do is work and study at your own pace. This can benefit professionals who want to avoid disrupting their schedules.
- Enhanced communication skills. An online degree can enhance your communication skills. Most of the programs offer live interactive sessions as well as asynchronous learning. Students work remotely in groups which accustoms them to a modern learning environment that could come in handy when they transition to their career.
- Flexibility. Flexibility is one of the best benefits of online programs. College often takes up a large part of a student’s schedule, and it can be difficult to focus on other ventures such as work or family. However, an online construction management degree offers the flexibility to maintain a healthy balance between work and school.
Benefits of In-Person Construction Management Degree Programs
- An opportunity to network. Networking is important for professionals at all levels. It helps them learn about new opportunities for career growth. In-person degree programs make it easier to connect with professionals and colleagues. You have the opportunity to meet leaders in the construction field one-on-one and share ideas with them as well.
- Less distractions. In-person construction management programs take place on campus in auditoriums and lecture halls. These halls reduce noise, so students are unlikely to be distracted by traffic noises or people talking. Also, members of your household cannot distract you during in-person classes.
- Extra support. While online students get support from their departments, it may not offer the kind of support that all students need. Online learning requires a lot of dedication to keep up with the class, and not all students can muster up this courage. Some need support from instructors in face-to-face classes.
- Enjoy college to the fullest. College is more than just attending classes and getting a degree. It involves taking part in social activities and college clubs, and developing important life skills such as interpersonal and leadership skills. Studying online may not make it possible for students to enjoy the full college experience.
- Social interaction. Social interaction is important for your mental health. While online learning includes some form of interaction, it may not offer students the full opportunity to interact with their peers on a daily basis. These social interactions help them form new bonds and make friendships that transcend the walls of the university.
Online Construction Management Degree Career Options
With an online degree in construction management, you have a lot of career options to pursue. Some of the most common career options for graduates in this field include field engineers, construction project managers, site engineers, general contractors, and construction project directors.
Construction Management Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), construction management jobs have a positive job outlook, with employment in this field expected to grow by 11 percent from 2020 to 2030. This is much faster than the national average for all occupations. Around 38,900 job openings are expected each year for the entire decade.
These new openings can be attributed to the demand for new workers to replace those that retire or transition to other fields. If you want to become a construction management expert, this is the best time because the outlook is great.
Construction Management Salary
The median annual wage for construction managers was $98,890 in 2021, according to BLS. This is far higher than the national average of all occupations. Some can earn more while others less, depending on different factors such as location, qualification, and experience. Also, those with construction certification increase their chances of earning more with their degree.
Can I Enroll in an Online Construction Management Program for Free?
Yes, you can enroll in an online construction management program for free if you have financial aid from the state or federal government. To qualify, you may need to meet requirements such as a high GPA, low-income status, or program acceptance.
Those who do not meet the criteria for scholarships and grants can consider taking free online courses. These courses can help you develop leadership skills in construction management. However, they cannot be used to get a degree. These courses simply prepare you for the program until you enroll in college.
Cheapest Online Construction Management Degree Programs
| School | Online Degree | Degree Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Renton Technical College | Online Associate of Applied Science in Construction Management | $119.13/credit (in state); $306.92/credit (out of state) |
| Dakota County Technical College | Online Associate of Science in Construction Management | $200.49/credit |
| Indiana State University | Online Bachelor of Science in Construction Management | $337/credit (in state); $727/credit (out of state) |
| Colorado State University-Pueblo | Online Bachelor of Science in Construction Management | $360/credit |
| University Of Southern Mississippi | Online Bachelor of Science in Construction Management | $389.59/credit |
| Florida International University | Online Master of Science in Construction Management | $441.49/credit (in state); $2,100/course (out of state) |
| Park University | Online Bachelor of Science in Construction Management | $453/credit |
| Rowan University | Online Bachelor of Arts in Construction Management | $506.58/credit |
| Purdue University | Online Master of Construction Management | $682/credit (in state); $906/credit (out of state) |
| The University of Texas at El Paso | Online Master of Science in Construction Management | $782/credit |
Construction Management Degrees Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Most Affordable Online Construction Management Programs
We chose the most affordable construction management degree programs based on tuition and general costs information from the schools’ official websites, the US Department of Education’s database of accredited schools, and the US Department of Education’s College Scorecard tool.
The Cheapest Online Construction Management Degree Programs: A Deep Dive
Common Online Construction Management Degree Courses
Construction management degrees are available at the associate degree, bachelor’s degree, and master’s degree levels. Some of the common courses include Introduction to Engineering Construction Technology, Plans Analysis, Mechanical and Electrical Systems for Construction Managers, Construction Project Management, and Project Management/Critical Path Analysis.
Introduction to Engineering Construction Technology
This course introduces students to engineering topics such as technical reporting and the presentation of data. It also covers the basic steps of construction design alongside safety protocols in engineering. The course emphasizes the identification, analysis, specification, and selection of construction materials.
Plans Analysis
This course introduces students to structural, architectural, and mechanical requirements in the construction field. The course emphasizes craft resources, blueprint interpretation, code compliance, material requirements, and work scheduling.
Mechanical and Electrical Systems for Construction Managers
This course introduces students to electrical and mechanical systems used by construction managers. Some topics in the course include the setup, installation, and maintenance of mechanical systems. It also covers the ventilation, heating, wiring, and cooling of domestic and commercial systems.
Construction Project Management
This course introduces students to project administration, project planning, and claims and disputes. It also explains proper documentation, responsibilities, labor relations, construction law, and negotiation basics. Students also cover topics like project closeout, CPM scheduling, quality assurance, and construction materials.
Project Management/Critical Path Analysis
The project management course emphasizes planning and control in construction. Students learn time cost analysis in this course and also master job shop scheduling, project management, and construction project-related problems.
Can I Apply for Federal Aid to Finance My Online Construction Management Degree?
Yes, you can apply for federal aid to finance your online construction management degree. There are a lot of options to consider, such as grants, loans, and even work-study programs. Most of them involve filling out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form after securing admission to a college or university.
Options to Help Pay for an Online Construction Management Degree
Many schools with online programs offer scholarships and grants to reduce the burden of payment. Scholarships may be partial or full, but they can nevertheless apply toward tuition and other school supplies. Here are some other popular options to pay for an online construction management degree.
Federal and State Grants
The federal government offers grants to students who demonstrate financial need. One common federal government grant is Pell Grant, which doesn’t need to be repaid. However, this particular grant can only be received once.
To get federal and state grants, you need to fill out a FAFSA form. FAFSA allows applicants to apply for grants after gaining admission into college. You can fill it out online as long as you sign up for an FSA ID.
Federal and Private Loans
Students who cannot secure federal grants and scholarships can opt for federal loans. These loans are offered at lower interest rates and can be repaid over a long period.
Private loans are also an option for students, but they can be quite expensive to repay. They are offered by private institutions such as banks and other private institutions. Private loans can attract additional fees as well as late fees, so be sure to read the fine print.
Work Study
Work study programs make it possible for students to work part-time and support themselves while in school. This is for students that demonstrate financial need, and both graduate and undergraduate students can apply for work-study programs. The kinds of available jobs for work-study include community service-related work or teaching assistants.
Cheapest Construction Management Degree Programs Online
To get the cheapest construction management degree programs online, you need to consider studying in the state you live in. Most colleges and universities offer lower rates to residents. In some cases, they offer a flat rate for both in-state and out-of-state students. Here are the top five cheapest construction management degree programs online at different educational levels.
Most Affordable Online Construction Management Associate Degrees
- Renton Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Construction Management. Renton Technical College has a small student population, hence a small student-to-faculty ratio. Despite being an online program, students get all the support they need from experienced faculty in the Associate of Applied Science in Construction Management program.
- Dakota County Technical College | Associate of Science in Construction Management. Dakota County Technical College offers support for its online students. Some of the support it offers includes tutoring and providing resources to help students navigate the online platform. It also has a small student population, so students get adequate support from their instructors.
- Casper College | Associate of Science in Construction Management. Casper College has a flexible program for online students, and it is suitable for working professionals. It is practical-based and prepares students for a Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management. The skills acquired in this program also prepare students to enter the workforce directly.
- Indian Hills Community College | Associate of Science in Construction Management. This program from Indian Hills Community College is flexible because students do not need to wait until the end of the semester to enroll. Many of the classes can be taken online, and it offers a dual-track curriculum. The main tracks include construction management and construction trades.
- Harrisburg Area Community College | Associate in Applied Science in Building Construction Management. Harrisburg Community College offers a building construction management program online. It prepares students to work as project contractors with plumbers, engineers, and painters and to handle the construction and design of complex construction projects. The HACC Foundation also provides scholarships.
Most Affordable Online Construction Management Bachelor’s Degrees
- Rowan University | Online Bachelor of Arts in Construction Management. Rowan offers support for its online construction management students. This ensures that they get all the help they need despite studying remotely. Since it is a liberal arts degree, students can customize their online degree program to follow other interests.
- Park University | Online Bachelor of Science in Construction Management. Park University offers one of the most affordable construction management degree programs online. Students in the program get support from department staff and can sort out any issues without having to visit the campus at all.
- Indiana State University | Bachelor of Science in Construction Management. Indiana State University stands out because it offers a hands-on program despite being 100 percent remote. It provides all the resources students need to meet their academic goals. The university also offers financial support to eligible students.
- University of Southern Mississippi | Bachelor of Science in Construction management. USM offers a fully asynchronous construction management degree program. This means that students can choose their study time. It is fully flexible, and this makes it ideal for working professionals and parents.
- Colorado State University-Pueblo | Bachelor of Science in Construction Management. While most of Colorado State University’s online programs are synchronous, there are also elements of asynchronous learning. The real-time engagement is set to flexible times to give working professionals the opportunity to attend and interact with their instructors.
Most Affordable Online Construction Management Master’s Degrees
- Purdue University | Master of Science in Construction Management. Purdue University offers both synchronous and asynchronous learning formats for its online programs. This gives students the flexibility they are looking for. The program also offers support for students without an undergraduate degree in construction management.
- Florida International University | Online Master of Science in Construction Management. FIU is known for its long list of online programs. It mainly uses an asynchronous learning format for its programs, and the university has an Asynchronous Learning Network dedicated to online programs. The network is part of a research effort to enhance online learning.
- University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus | Master of Science in Construction Business. This program at the University of Oklahoma prepares students for a career in construction management via hands-on experience in planning, construction, and design in the industry. It uses an asynchronous learning system.
- Norwich University | Online Master’s in Business Administration – Construction Management concentration. Norwich University was established in 1819. Its online master’s program in business administration with a concentration in construction management is flexible for working students. Students enrolled in the program get all the benefits of an MBA with an emphasis on construction management.
- The University of Texas at El Paso | Master of Science in Construction Management. This university also has an excellent online program. Students learn asynchronously and this gives them more flexibility to design their own study times. It provides advanced knowledge to help graduates become leaders in the construction industry.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Most In-Demand Construction Management Jobs With an Online Construction Management Degree
| Construction Management Job | Required Education | Job Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Construction Manager | Bachelor’s degree | 11% |
| Civil Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | 8% |
| Architectural and Engineering Manager | Bachelor’s degree | 4% |
| Cost Estimator | Bachelor’s degree | 1% |
| Landscape Architect | Bachelor’s degree | 0% |
Best Jobs With an Online Construction Management Degree Explained
Some of the best jobs you can get with an online construction management degree include construction managers, civil engineers, architectural and engineering managers, landscape architects, and cost estimators. This section highlights the average salary expectations for these roles using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Is an Online Construction Management Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online construction management degree is worth it because it gives you the option to enter a field with an excellent job outlook. Employment in construction management is expected to grow faster than the national average of employment growth across industries which makes it a good career to pursue in the United States.
Since the programs are online, you do not need to pause other aspects of your life to get a degree. It is flexible as well, so you can fit the learning schedule into your own and maintain a healthy balance. A construction management degree can usher you into several roles, and it offers a high median annual salary.
Additional Reading About Construction Management
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Cheapest Online Construction Management Degrees FAQ
Yes, you can get a construction management degree online. Lots of universities and colleges offer construction management degrees online at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree levels for students to choose from.
The best option between project management and construction management depends on your own interests. Construction managers oversee activities on a construction site, whereas the role of the project manager is to supervise the construction manager, essentially.
It is not hard to get a job as a construction manager because the construction field has a high job outlook. Employment for construction management professionals is expected to grow by 11% from 2020 to 2030. This means the demand for workers in the construction management field will continue to rise for the next decade.
To be a construction manager, you need to have a Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management or a construction-related field such as civil engineering, building engineering, construction engineering, or architectural studies.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
