Kent State University

What you'll study

The programme follows a broad, practice-oriented construction curriculum that blends core general-education coursework with specialised construction management subjects. Instruction emphasises applied skills in construction methods, cost estimating, scheduling, contract administration and site supervision alongside fundamentals of structural systems and building science.

• Core construction subjects: construction materials and methods, building systems, structural fundamentals, and site layout and surveying.
• Management and technical skills: construction estimating, scheduling and planning (including CPM techniques), cost control, project management principles, and construction safety management.
• Legal and financial topics: construction contracts, construction law and risk management, procurement methods and construction accounting.
• Digital technologies: building information modelling (BIM), construction project software, and technology for estimating and field management.
• Professional development: communication for the construction industry, leadership, ethics and teamwork; practical lab work and a capstone or senior project that integrates estimating, scheduling and project delivery.
• Experiential learning: opportunities for internships, cooperative education, industry projects and site visits to reinforce classroom learning.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Typical entry requirements include satisfactory performance in mathematics (algebra and geometry) and strong performance in science or technical subjects is advantageous. Admissions review commonly considers high school grades and the strength of the applicant's programme of study.

Standardised test scores may be considered where applicable by the university; applicants whose first language is not English must meet the university's English proficiency requirements (through recognised tests or other university-approved evidence). Mature applicants with relevant work experience or technical college qualifications are also considered through the university's admissions pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles across the construction industry. Common early-career positions include site superintendent, assistant project manager, project engineer, estimator and scheduler. With experience, alumni progress to project manager, construction manager, procurement manager, construction consultant, facilities manager or specialised roles such as BIM manager and cost control specialist.

The programme’s practical focus, combined with internships and industry engagement, supports transition into contractors, construction management firms, consulting practices, developers and public-sector agencies involved in infrastructure and building delivery.

Why study at Kent State University

Kent State offers a construction management education with a practical, industry-aligned emphasis, providing hands-on laboratory work and project-based learning to develop job-ready skills. The university’s location in northeastern Ohio gives students access to active regional construction markets for internships and employment, and students benefit from connections with local firms and professional organisations.

Students also have access to campus support services including career advising, internship placement assistance and student organisations that foster networking with practitioners and alumni. The combination of applied coursework, field experience and professional development helps graduates enter the construction industry well prepared for early responsibility and long-term career growth.