Study construction management abroad

Construction managers are responsible for overseeing the planning, organization, and delivery of commercial, industrial, and domestic construction projects.

As well as developing a sound understanding of construction processes and stages, you’ll become an effective leader. You’ll learn how to get the best out of your team so that projects are completed safely, efficiently, on time, and within budget. You’ll apply your knowledge across a range of briefs and settings, helping you to become a versatile and well-rounded construction professional.

Construction is a global business. Construction managers are often required to work overseas and liaise with clients, suppliers, and subcontractors across borders. Studying abroad will help you hone the cross-cultural communication and collaboration skills that you’ll need to start a successful international career.

Undergraduate degrees in construction management are usually offered as a BSc and require at least three years of full-time study. However, most courses also include an additional 12-month industry placement year, so it’s more common for programs to last four years.

Construction management is also available as a one or two-year master’s program, depending on whether you study on a full or part-time basis. To gain a place on the MSc, you’ll need to have an undergraduate degree in construction management or a related field, like engineering, project management, or human resources.

If you’re still keen to learn more after completing an MSc, you can opt to pursue a PhD. This research-based qualification usually takes between four and seven years to finish.

Construction management programs are typically taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, practical labs, hands-on workshops, and tutorials. Some universities will also organize guest presentations from industry professionals and visits to various construction sites.

Each module will be assessed slightly differently, but you’ll probably encounter exams, essays, presentations, practical assessments, and independent projects.

What’s covered on your construction management program will depend on your university and country of study. However, most courses will provide students with a solid grounding in these core areas:

• Introduction to the built environment
• Structures, materials, and construction methods
• Construction management and site investigation
• Construction law
• Construction technology
• Contracts and procurement
• Construction and financial management
• Sustainability and environmental management

Your skills in problem-solving, organization, and leadership will make you a stand-out candidate for several roles across the fast-paced construction industry.

Here are some of the most popular career paths pursued by graduates:

• Construction manager
• Site manager
• Estimator
• Civil engineer
• Project manager
• Surveyor
• Contractor
• Construction consultant

If you’re unsure of how to land your dream job, arrange to speak with your university’s career service. They can support you if you’re considering postgraduate study or looking for work experience. They can also help you perfect your resume and improve your interview skills.