Construction Engineering and Management Program

Construction Engineering and Management at the University of Colorado Denver is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the construction industry. This program offers a rigorous curriculum that combines principles of engineering, management, and construction technology to equip graduates with the skills necessary to plan, design, execute, and oversee construction projects of various scales. Students will gain a solid foundation in construction methods, project management, cost estimation, and safety protocols, enabling them to efficiently manage resources, schedules, and budgets while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through lab work, internships, and real-world project experience, providing students with practical skills and industry connections. Coursework includes subjects such as construction materials, methods and equipment, construction law, budgeting and scheduling, and sustainable building practices. The faculty comprises experienced professionals and researchers dedicated to advancing knowledge and innovation in construction engineering. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers as construction managers, project engineers, site supervisors, or consulting specialists in the construction sector. The program also offers pathways for students interested in pursuing advanced degrees in related fields. With state-of-the-art facilities and a close relationship with industry partners, the University of Colorado Denver supports student success and career development in the dynamic field of construction engineering and management.

The Master of Engineering in Construction Engineering and Management (CEM) provides students with rigorous scientific knowledge, design business principles and the engineering tools necessary for lifelong careers in the ever-changing technical and managerial environment of the construction industry. Students who successfully complete the curriculum will be prepared for entry and continued growth into  construction engineering/project management or related professional or academic fields, such as business, real estate development and other engineering disciplines. 

There are four required core courses for the CEM Master of Engineering degree: Construction Planning and Control, Construction Cost Estimating, Construction Materials and Methods, and the Master's Report. 

Students must take three additional program courses from those listed below, plus three courses selected--with the help of an advisor--from a diverse set of course options related to business, engineering, entrepreneurialism, global interests, achitecture, and urban planning. A wide range of of focus study areas are available through support from graduate programs in engineering, architecture and urban planning, and business. Focus study areas may include, but are not limited to, sustianability in construction engineering, construction business management, or a variety of applicable engineering specialties such as transportation, structural design, geographic information systems (GIS), etc.​

CEM Required Core (4 courses)

CVEN 5231 - Construction Materials and Methods

CVEN 5232 - Construction Planning and Control

CVEN 5233 - Construction Cost Estimating

CVEN 5960 - Master’s Report or Academic Internship (3 units, requires advisor approval)

CEM Electives (3 courses required)

CVEN 5087 - Engineering Contracts

CVEN 5234 - Sustainable Construction

CVEN 5235 - Advanced Construction Engineering (Also offered at CU South Denver)

CVEN 5236 - Project Management Systems

CVEN 5237 - Advanced Project Management

CVEN 5238 - Integrated Construction Leadership (Offered at CU South Denver)

CVEN 5800 - Building Information Modeling (BIM)

CVEN 5800 - Construction Field Management

CVEN 5800 - Construction Safety

CVEN 5800 - Construction, Business and Innovation (In partnership with inWorks)

CVEN 5800 - Leadership and Ethics in Construction

CVEN 5800 - Site-Layout

All civil engineering graduate applicants must submit the following materials.

1. Application Form
2. Application Fee
3. Statement of Purpose
   This may be included on your application form.
4. Transcripts
   We require one official copy of each previous transcript. E-transcripts should be sent to the Graduate School at megan.l.rogers@ucdenver.edu​. 
5. References
   We require three references (4th optional).
6. Official GRE Scores

   Applicants must submit evidence of adequate preparation for graduate study by either (a) submitting official GRE scores, or (b) documenting an earned bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.00 or higher from an institution accredited by a U.S. accreditation body, or an earned master’s degree with a GPA of 3.50 or higher from an institution accredited by a U.S. accreditation body. 

TEST SCORES: TOEFL, IELTS, OR PTE

​SCORE REQUIREMENTS:

TOEFL

Minimum TOEFL Score Accepted: 75 IBT / 537 PBT

IELTS

Minimum IELTS Score Accepted: 6.5

The TOEFL/IELTS requirement can be waived if an applicant has graduated from the ESL Academy. Information regarding other considerations for exemption, including country of citizenship/origin, and special circumstances can be found here. Please note that some graduate level programs will require a higher score on the TOEFL/IELTS and applicants should consult the department for additional details

PTE ACADEMIC

Minimum PTE Academic Score Accepted: 51

TThe Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) is currently in a pilot review at the University of Colorado Denver. We will accept a 51 PTE Academic score with the following subscores:

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

At CU Denver, we firmly believe that each and every student should have an opportunity to realize their purpose – regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we have a top-notch Financial Aid and Scholarships Office, dedicated to providing our students with the aid they need.

CU Denver students receive over $30 million in scholarships and grant packages each year. On average, a full-time undergrad determined to have a financial need is awarded just under $7,000 (part-time undergrads received $4,000).

The Construction Engineering and Management program at the University of Colorado Denver is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the construction industry, focusing on the technical, managerial, and business aspects of construction projects. This program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of construction methods, project planning and control, cost estimation, safety, and sustainability practices. Students gain hands-on experience through coursework, projects, and internships, involving the use of modern construction management software and technology. The curriculum incorporates core engineering principles, enabling graduates to effectively manage risks, resources, and schedules in complex construction projects.

The program integrates classroom learning with practical application, often collaborating with industry partners to provide real-world experience. Students are encouraged to develop skills in leadership, communication, and teamwork—essential qualities for successful construction managers. The program also covers important topics like contract administration, legal considerations in construction, environmental impact assessments, and innovative construction techniques. Graduates from this program are well-equipped for careers in construction project management, facilities management, estimating, and consulting.

The faculty members are experts with extensive industry experience and academic backgrounds, providing mentorship and cutting-edge knowledge. The university’s location in Denver, a booming construction hub, offers students abundant internship and employment opportunities. The program may include options for specialization in areas such as sustainable construction, infrastructure, or advanced project management techniques, depending on the latest curriculum offerings. Opportunities for research, industry certifications, and professional development are also part of the program, ensuring students are ready for the evolving demands of the construction sector.