University of North Florida

What you'll study

This master's programme combines advanced engineering principles, construction technology, and project management to prepare graduates for complex construction challenges. Course topics typically include construction materials and methods, structural behaviour for construction professionals, construction estimating and cost control, construction scheduling and CPM, building information modelling (BIM) and digital construction, construction safety and risk management, construction contracts and legal issues, and sustainable construction practices.

Students usually follow a mix of core and elective modules and complete a culminating experience such as a capstone project, practicum or research thesis. Typical elements of the curriculum are:

• Advanced construction materials and systems — performance, durability and testing of common building materials.
• Construction project management — scheduling, CPM/PERT, earned value management and project controls.
• Estimating and cost engineering — quantity takeoff, cost estimating and cost-benefit analysis.
• BIM and digital construction technologies — BIM workflows, clash detection, information management and integration with project delivery.
• Construction safety and risk — safety programme development, regulatory compliance and risk mitigation.
• Construction contracts and law — contract administration, claims, dispute resolution and procurement methods.
• Research methods or practicum — applied research techniques, data analysis and a final project or thesis focused on a real-world construction problem.

The programme is offered with flexible enrolment options to accommodate full-time students and working professionals; part-time study and evening or hybrid delivery may be available.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in engineering, construction management, architecture, or a closely related field. Admissions normally consider the quality of previous academic work, relevant professional experience, and fit with the programme.

• Official academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• A current curriculum vitae or résumé outlining professional and technical experience.
• A personal statement or statement of purpose describing academic and career goals and reasons for pursuing the degree.
• Letters of recommendation, typically from academic or professional referees able to comment on potential for graduate study.
• Proof of English language proficiency for international applicants (accepted tests and minimum scores are specified by the university).
• Standardised tests such as the GRE may be required or considered on a case-by-case basis depending on the applicant’s background; check with the programme for current policy.

Applicants with substantial professional experience in construction or a related area may be favourably considered even if their undergraduate discipline is not an exact match; prerequisite coursework could be required to address any technical gaps.

Career prospects

Graduates move into technical and managerial roles across the construction and built-environment sector. Common career paths include:

• Construction manager or project manager overseeing building and infrastructure projects.
• Project engineer or field engineer responsible for technical coordination and quality control.
• Estimator or cost engineer preparing bids and managing cost control.
• BIM manager or digital delivery specialist implementing information-management workflows.
• Safety and risk manager focusing on compliance and hazard mitigation.
• Facilities or asset manager responsible for operation and lifecycle planning of built assets.
• Consultant roles in engineering firms, contractors, owners’ representatives, or public agencies involved in infrastructure delivery.

The degree also provides a foundation for those who wish to pursue doctoral study or careers in research, teaching, and policy related to construction technology and infrastructure systems.

Why study at University of North Florida

The University of North Florida offers this programme within a regional context of a busy construction market, providing opportunities for collaboration with local contractors, engineering firms and public agencies. The university emphasises applied learning and industry engagement, which can include project-based coursework, practicum placements and access to professional networks in the Jacksonville metropolitan area.

Students benefit from faculty with practical and academic experience in construction and engineering, a campus environment that supports part-time and working students, and proximity to a range of construction projects that enhance applied research and practicum opportunities. Prospective students should consult the university’s official programme page for the most current details on curriculum, delivery modes and admissions procedures.