Tuesday, 29 May 2012

Online Degrees for Aspiring Contractors: Program Options

Aspiring contractors can find an online bachelor's degree program in construction management. The program explores construction from a business standpoint, covering pertinent topics from financing to building codes.

Online Bachelor of Science in Construction Management Program Overview

Students interested in construction often benefit from a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management. Programs introduce various business-related aspects of construction management, such as basic building codes, financial and legal issues, contracts and personnel supervision. The program trains contractors to manage a construction site. They gain experience working with budgets, hiring crewmembers, ordering materials, supervising construction and working closely with clients to ensure satisfaction.

Program Information and Requirements

Prospective contractors will invest about four years in a bachelor's degree program. Online and hybrid programs provide students with flexible scheduling.
Online programs require a high-speed Internet connection, as well as an up-to-date computer and operating system. Instructors use a course management system and online presentations to create a virtual classroom environment. Communication with fellow classmates and instructors is conducted via e-mail.

List of Common Courses

In addition to core general education requirements, students take beginning and advanced courses in construction management such as building codes, construction law, drafting, quality control and scheduling. Courses are topic-specific and intended to prepare students for a particular career field in construction.

Introduction to Building Codes Course

Students get a comprehensive overview of mechanical, plumbing, electrical and structural building codes. Other areas of focus include inspectors, zoning ordinances and organizations involved in the development of building codes.

Contracts and Documents Course

This course indoctrinates students in the many contracts and documents used in the design and construction of a structure. Students study the formatting and administration of construction specifications, warranties, indemnity, dispute resolution and liability.

Construction and the Law Course

Students explore construction from a legal standpoint. Topics of special interest include land zoning, property ownership, litigation and arbitration, contractor liability, contracts, labor law and hazardous waste.

Career Information

According to the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov), a bachelor's degree is becoming the standard for construction careers with more than 100 colleges offering programs in construction science and related fields. The U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported in 2008 61% of construction managers were self-employed and employment is expected to increase 17% from 2008-2018. The median annual salary for construction managers in May 2009 was reported by the BLS to be $82,330.

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