University News

University to Offer Master of Science in Construction Management through College of Engineering

Published: July 22, 2020 | Categories: Engineering, All News
Seven people consulting at a construction site.

Western New England University has announced the addition of a new Master of Science in Construction Management program to the list of graduate degree offerings.

"Construction Management is defined as a professional service that uses specialized, project management techniques to oversee the planning, design, and construction of a project, from its beginning to its end," says Kenneth Lee, founding Chair for the Construction Management Department as well as Professor and Chair of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Western New England University (WNE).

U.S. News and World Report ranks a Construction Manager as #1 in Best Construction Jobs and #43 in 100 Best Jobs with a low unemployment rate of 2.3%. The Bureau of Labor Statistics website shows that the job outlook growth (2016-2026) for Construction Managers is at 11% (faster than average), with a median salary of $93,370 per year.

"Construction projects can range from improving intersection traffic flows, to massive multi-billion dollar infrastructure projects with a decade long development environment, each which needs specialized people with specialized skill sets to manage" adds Christian Salmon, WNE Assistant Professor of Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management.

With courses rooted in civil engineering, industrial engineering, and engineering management the program strives to provide a well-rounded knowledge base in engineering as it pertains to construction management. Elective opportunities in business and management will give students a perspective into the business world that will prepare them for management and leadership roles.

"The MS in Construction Management is a great fit with our existing undergraduate and graduate programs offered by our College of Engineering," said Executive Director of Graduate Admissions, Matthew Fox. "We continue to accept applications for new graduate candidates, and those starting the construction management program this fall will be able to earn their master’s in as few as 18 months studying part-time or in one year studying full-time."

The program is tailored for students to choose from three options to complete the degree. The All-Course option allows students to complete the 10 graduate courses that include open electives choosing from courses in Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering as well as Engineering Management or Business. Through the Project or Thesis options students will work with a faculty advisor to take a deeper dive in a topic of interest, culminating in a final report and presentation.

Applications are now being accepted for the MS in Construction Management program. Classes begin September 28, 2020. To learn more, contact the Office of Graduate Studies at 413-782-1517 or email study@wne.edu