Construction Science and Management

Construction Science and Management at Kansas State University prepares students for a dynamic and growing industry that plays a vital role in building the infrastructure of our society. This comprehensive program equips students with the technical knowledge, management skills, and practical experience necessary to succeed in the construction industry. Students will learn about project planning, estimating, scheduling, safety management, quality control, and sustainable building practices, ensuring they are well-prepared to oversee complex construction projects from inception to completion. The curriculum combines classroom instruction with hands-on training, including field labs and cooperative education opportunities, enabling students to apply theoretical concepts in real-world settings. Students also gain proficiency in industry-standard software tools, enhancing their competence in project management and communication. The program emphasizes leadership, ethical decision-making, and teamwork, fostering the professional qualities needed to lead construction projects efficiently and responsibly. Graduates of the Construction Science and Management program find careers in commercial, residential, industrial, and institutional construction, as well as project management firms, construction consulting, and infrastructure development agencies. The program is accredited by the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE), ensuring it meets high standards of quality and relevance. Students benefit from the university’s strong industry connections, faculty expertise, and state-of-the-art facilities, all designed to support their academic and professional development. Whether aiming to become project managers, estimating professionals, safety supervisors, or construction engineers, students will receive a solid foundation to build a successful career in this essential industry. Joining this program means gaining the necessary skills, industry insight, and professional network to thrive in today’s competitive construction environment.

Construction Science and Management at Kansas State University prepares students for a dynamic and rewarding career in the construction industry. The program combines rigorous academic coursework with practical hands-on experiences to equip graduates with the skills necessary to oversee construction projects from inception to completion. Students learn essential areas such as project management, construction methods and materials, cost estimation, scheduling, safety protocols, and sustainable building practices. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, communication, problem-solving, and ethical decision-making, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to manage complex projects effectively.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities to engage in internships and cooperative education placements with leading construction firms, providing real-world experience and professional networking opportunities. The program also features state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities that simulate construction environments, allowing students to develop technical skills and familiarity with industry-standard tools and software. Collaborative projects and team-based assignments foster teamwork and project coordination skills vital for success in the construction field.

Faculty members are industry professionals and researchers committed to mentoring students and advancing construction science knowledge. The program culminates in a capstone project where students demonstrate their ability to plan, execute, and manage a construction project, integrating knowledge from various disciplines. Graduates of the Construction Science and Management program at Kansas State University are prepared for careers as construction managers, project engineers, estimators, safety officers, and other roles within the construction industry, contributing to infrastructure development, commercial and residential building projects, and sustainable construction initiatives across the region and beyond.

Program Requirements for Bachelor of Science in Construction Science and Management at Kansas State University:

Admissions Criteria: Prospective students must meet the university's general admission standards, including a high school diploma or equivalent, a competitive high school GPA, and satisfactory scores on standardized tests such as the ACT or SAT. Specific program prerequisites may include a background in mathematics and science courses. Applicants are advised to submit transcripts, ACT or SAT scores, and a personal statement outlining their interest in construction management.

Prerequisites: High school coursework should ideally include mathematics (Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry), sciences (Physics, Chemistry), and English. For transfer students, credits in these areas should be verified for transferability. Completing introductory courses in mathematics and science prior to enrollment is recommended to ensure foundational knowledge.

Coursework and Curriculum: The curriculum encompasses core courses such as Construction Materials and Methods, Construction Estimating and Bidding, Construction Equipment and Safety, and Project Management. Students must complete a set number of credit hours in both general education and major courses, typically totaling around 120-130 credit hours for graduation. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory work, project courses, and internships. Capstone projects are usually required in the final year to demonstrate comprehensive understanding and application of construction management principles.

Internship and Practical Experience: Students are strongly encouraged to complete internships or cooperative education experiences with construction firms or related organizations. These practical experiences are essential for employment readiness and may count towards graduation requirements. The program fosters industry partnerships to facilitate placement opportunities.

Laboratory and Facilities Requirements: Access to specialized construction laboratories, including mock-up sites, safety training facilities, and construction equipment workshops, is integral to the program. Students are required to participate in these facilities to develop practical skills in construction techniques and safety protocols.

Assessment and Graduation: Progress is monitored through coursework, project evaluations, and internship reports. Students must achieve a minimum grade point average (GPA), typically around 2.0-2.5, depending on specific criteria, to progress and graduate. Successful completion of all required courses, including the senior capstone, is necessary for conferral of the Bachelor of Science degree.

Additional Certifications: While not mandatory, students are encouraged to pursue industry-recognized certifications such as OSHA safety certification, Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) certification, and others to enhance employability.

Language and Residency: Proficiency in English must be demonstrated for admission and coursework. The program is designed primarily for resident students, but out-of-state and international students are welcome, subject to admission criteria and visa requirements.

Total Program Duration: The standard duration is four academic years for full-time students, with options for accelerated pathways or part-time study based on individual circumstances.

Transfer Policy: Transfer students from accredited institutions must submit official transcripts for evaluation. Credit transferability depends on alignment with program coursework. A minimum GPA requirement is typically maintained.

Program Accreditation: The Construction Science and Management program is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), ensuring adherence to industry standards and quality assurance.

Note: For precise and updated information, consult the Kansas State University official Construction Science and Management webpage or academic catalog.

The Construction Science and Management program at Kansas State University offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees for in-state students are generally lower compared to out-of-state students, with current rates approximating $9,242 per year for residents and $24,744 for non-residents. These costs may vary slightly from year to year, and additional fees for laboratories, materials, and student activities may apply. Financial aid opportunities are available through federal and state aid programs, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which students are encouraged to complete annually to determine eligibility for grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans. Kansas State University also offers a range of institutional scholarships specifically for construction management students based on academic merit, leadership, and financial need. These scholarships can significantly offset tuition costs and are awarded competitively.

Additionally, students may consider external funding sources such as private scholarships, employer tuition reimbursement programs, and veteran benefits if applicable. The university's financial aid office provides dedicated counseling services to assist students in navigating available options, submitting applications, and understanding repayment responsibilities for loans. Payment plans are also available, allowing students to spread tuition fees over multiple installments to ease financial burden. The construction management program emphasizes affordability and accessibility, aiming to help students finance their education through a combination of scholarships, grants, loans, and part-time employment. Campus employment opportunities related to construction projects or administrative roles may provide additional income and practical experience. Overall, students are encouraged to explore all available resources early in their academic planning to optimize their financing strategies and minimize debt upon graduation.

The Construction Science and Management program at Kansas State University is a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed to prepare students for successful careers in the construction industry. The program emphasizes the fundamental principles of construction methods, project management, cost estimation, safety, and sustainability. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, construction site visits, and internships, which are integrated into the curriculum to provide practical skills and real-world understanding. The curriculum includes courses in construction materials, structural systems, construction law, estimating and bidding, scheduling, and environmental considerations, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to manage complex construction projects from inception to completion.

The faculty involved in the program are experienced professionals and researchers dedicated to advancing the field of construction management. They employ innovative teaching techniques, including technology-enhanced learning and industry partnerships, to keep the program aligned with current industry standards and emerging trends. Kansas State University's proximity to a robust construction industry offers students numerous opportunities for internships and cooperative education experiences, fostering strong industry connections and enhancing employability upon graduation.

Graduates of the program are prepared for a variety of roles, including construction project managers, estimators, safety managers, and site supervisors. They are equipped with critical skills in leadership, communication, problem-solving, and technical expertise necessary to oversee construction projects successfully and deliver them within budget and schedule constraints. The program also prepares students for professional certification exams, such as the Certified Construction Manager (CCM), and supports continuing education and graduate studies for those interested in advanced specialization or academic careers.

The Construction Science and Management program at Kansas State University maintains a commitment to diversity and inclusion, welcoming students from various backgrounds and providing support through academic advising, student organizations, and career services. Graduates leave the program ready to contribute to the construction industry’s growth and innovation, making a positive impact on infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, and community building across the nation.