Online certificate programs in construction
are available in construction management and building inspection.
Certification in these fields is available through organizations such as
the American Concrete Institute and Construction Management Association
of America.
Through an online certificate program in construction management
interested students, including those who already work in the industry,
can broaden their knowledge, as well as learn new skills in contracts,
risk management and bidding practices. Major areas of study typically
include on-site supervision, project management and contract
administration. Many programs are designed to enhance knowledge of the
construction industry, while providing a potential path to a management
position.
Some institutions may require certificate candidates to have either
completed prerequisite coursework or to hold a bachelor's degree from an
accredited college or university. Many programs are taught completely
online; however, some may include a mix of distance education and
on-campus classes. Online courses are viewed using online learning
management systems, such as Blackboard, which allows students to
interact with professors and students through discussion boards and chat
rooms.
Students must have access to a computer, meeting hardware and
software requirements, as well as a high-speed Internet connection. Most
courses rely on textbooks, although software programs such as Microsoft
Project and AutoCAD may be incorporated.
Common Online Construction Management Courses
Certificate candidates examine the various roles and responsibilities
involved with construction management, such as construction methods,
building materials and building codes. They examine the fundamentals of
construction project management with a particular focus on contracting, inspections and subcontracting.
Estimating and Bidding Course
In this online course, students gain a basic understanding of
estimating and bidding procedures, including the role of the estimator.
Emphasis is placed on the various details of an estimate, including an
overview of the bidding process and strategies.
Construction Project Leadership Course
Students are introduced the styles and techniques required to promote
teamwork on a construction project. They are trained in managing a
diverse workplace and handling of crises. Online learners gain a greater
knowledge of the tactics used to motivate people to achieve the goals
of a construction organization.
Construction Safety Management Course
This online course overviews the basic principles of health
management as it relates to the safety and environmental issues faced by
construction firms. Emphasis is placed on the development of best
practices in safety management and loss control strategies.
Certificate recipients can pursue a variety of positions in the
construction industry, such as project manager, estimator and safety
manager. In September 2010, the average annual salary for construction
project managers was $83,907, according to
Salary.com.
Professional Certification and Continuing Education
Construction management professionals can seek certification through
organizations such as the American Institute of Constructors and
Construction Certification Commission and the Construction Management
Association of America. Students typically must pass a written
technical exam in order to be awarded designations such as Certified
Construction Manager (CCM) and Certified Professional Constructor (CPC).
Online Certificate in Construction Inspection Overview
Online certificate programs in construction inspection provide
students with the theoretical knowledge in construction building codes
and principles. Online learners explore laboratory and field testing,
mechanical systems, electrical systems and report writing. Students may
be required to complete an internship or apprenticeship at a county
building and city department.
Many institutions require certificate candidates to have completed
prerequisite coursework or been awarded an undergraduate degree in
related disciplines, such as communications or computation and
quantitative skills. Most programs are offered in hybrid formats,
requiring students to attend on-campus lectures or engage in a field
project. Online students complete coursework through online course
management systems.
Common Online Courses
Certificate candidates examine the roles and responsibilities of a
building inspector, including an understanding of the International
Building Code developed by the International Building Council. Public
safety codes and requirements are of particular focus in this course.
International Building Code Course
This course provides students with an introduction to the
International Building Code. Areas of focus include fire and safety
requirements, location limits and building code applications.
Electrical Inspection Course
Online learners explore the basics of electrical inspection including
installation inspection in commercial, industrial and residential
buildings. Areas of emphasis include underground inspection and branch
circuit layout.
International Residential Inspection Basics Course
In this course, students learn the processes and procedures used in
residential inspections. They also study the building code as it applies
to residential construction sites. Mechanical codes in residential
dwellings may also be discussed.
Those who have completed a certificate program in building inspection
can pursue employment opportunities at construction firms, private
builders, or as independent contractors. In September 2010, the average
annual salary for a building inspector was $49,411, and the median
annual salary for a senior building inspector was $58,808, according to
Salary.com.
Professional Certification and Continuing Education
Experienced construction inspectors who have completed a certificate
program can seek certification through organizations such as the
International Code Council (ICC) and the American Concrete Institute
(ACI). The ICC offers certification exams for Certified Code Safety
Professionals. The ACI offers certification exams in concrete
construction and inspection based on codes and job specifications.
Students can attain designations such as Associate Concrete Special
Inspector and Concrete Construction Special Inspector.
No comments:
Post a Comment