Boise State University

What you'll study

The programme blends technical construction science with business, management and legal aspects of the industry. Core subject areas include construction materials and methods, estimating and cost control, construction scheduling and project management, construction safety and risk management, contracts and construction law, and construction surveying and site layout. Students gain practical skills in building information modelling (BIM), computer applications for construction, and construction quality control.

Typical modules and topics you can expect:

• Introduction to Construction Management and Industry Practices
• Construction Materials and Methods
• Construction Estimating and Cost Management
• Construction Scheduling and CPM/PERT Techniques
• Construction Law, Contracts and Ethics
• Construction Safety Management and OSHA‑based practices
• BIM and Construction Technology (software applications and workflows)
• Structural Principles for Construction Managers
• Site Development, Surveying and Temporary Works
• Project Controls, Risk Management and Claims
• Capstone Senior Project or Integrated Project Delivery course with industry partner

Hands‑on learning is emphasised through lab work, software labs, estimating and bidding exercises, and field visits. Many students complete an internship or cooperative placement with local contractors, developers or public agencies as part of the degree.

Entry requirements

Applicants must meet Boise State University's general undergraduate admission standards and hold a recognised secondary school qualification. The programme typically expects a strong foundation in mathematics; applicants who have taken algebra, geometry and precalculus or equivalent are well prepared. Background in physics, technology or drafting is advantageous but not mandatory.

Typical department considerations include academic performance (high school GPA or equivalent), completion of recommended high school coursework, and demonstrated interest in construction or engineering fields. Transfer applicants are considered on the basis of prior college coursework; relevant technical or trade credit may be evaluated for fulfilment of degree requirements. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements set by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles across the construction and built‑environment sectors. Common career pathways include:

• Construction manager / project manager overseeing schedules, budgets and teams
• Field superintendent managing on‑site construction operations
• Estimator or preconstruction specialist preparing bids and cost analyses
• Scheduler or project controls specialist focused on critical path and resource planning
• Safety manager or risk coordinator implementing site safety programmes
• BIM coordinator or construction technologist integrating digital models and workflows
• Facilities/project delivery roles with owners, developers or public agencies

Graduates often find employment with general contractors, specialty trade contractors, construction management firms, engineering consultancies, developers, and public sector agencies. The degree also provides a foundation for professional certifications and licensure pathways, and for continued study in related master’s programmes.

Why study at Boise State University

Boise State's programme emphasises applied learning and regional industry engagement. Students benefit from practical laboratory spaces and technology resources for estimating, scheduling and BIM, along with projects that connect classroom learning to real construction sites. The university's relationships with Idaho and regional construction firms support internship and employment opportunities, and faculty typically bring industry experience into teaching and project supervision.

Boise State offers access to a growing urban construction market, opportunities for multidisciplinary collaboration across engineering and business departments, and career services that help students connect with local and national employers. The programme is suited to students who want a pragmatic, career‑oriented education with strong ties to the construction industry.