Online Schools with Degrees for Becoming a Carpenter: How to Choose

Carpentry education is available through trade schools, community colleges and on-the-job training. Online associate's degree programs are available in the related specialties of construction management or construction management technology. Along with on-the-job experience and apprenticeships, associate degree programs provide the skills needed for employment in the industry.

Overview of an Online Associate's Degree in Construction Management

Although online degree programs specifically in carpentry are not common, programs in construction management offer a theoretical introduction to carpentry skills, tools and methods. Some are designed for the entrepreneur wishing to start his own business, while others train students in residential construction or construction management. Usually there are no specific requirements for entry, but a background in carpentry is helpful. Students generally need to supplement the theoretical training an online program offers with hands-on training from apprenticeships or in-person training programs. Some programs offer union apprenticeships upon graduation. Graduates are awarded an associate's degree in construction management or construction technology management.

Program Information and Requirements

These online associate's degree programs normally allow students to participate anytime at their own pace. Some schools also offer a hybrid format combining distance and in-person education, or interactive video conferencing courses via an information highway. Some provide community forums for communication with peers throughout the degree program. Tutoring and instructor guidance are also done remotely.
Students need access to a personal computer and the Internet to access course textbooks, outlines, assignments, exams and live lectures. Some schools use a learning management system to manage their program, such as Moodle.

List of Common Online Courses

Courses in these online degree programs typically include areas of construction math, planning, scheduling, installation, design, laws, drawings, safety and principles. Some common general education courses include business, communications, management, psychology and accounting. A few of the common courses and their descriptions are listed below.

Introduction to Carpentry and Construction Methods Course

This course introduces the methods and tools used in carpentry and construction. Some of the topics covered include hand and power tools, exterior and interior finishes, framing, masonry, structures, plumbing, roofing, ceilings and floors.

Drawings, Specifications and Estimating Course

Students learn to read and interpret construction blueprints and specifications used to estimate and manage construction projects. Topics include the lines, site improvements, scales, surveys, grades and foundations used in plumbing, electrical, mechanical, residential and commercial documents.

Project Planning and Scheduling Course

This class introduces construction planning and scheduling and the mechanics and vocabulary used. Students also examine computer-based planning, charts, resource allocation, production, language and logic used in construction management.

Career Information for Graduates

In November of 2010, Salary.com reported that the national yearly pay for carpenters ranged from the lowest 10 percent earning $26,602 to the highest 10 percent earning $55,683. In May of 2009, the highest level of employment in carpentry was in residential building construction, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov).

Continuing Training and Education Information

Graduates of these programs usually begin their employment in the field as an apprentice. Many states require a specific number of years or hours worked in apprenticeship before becoming a carpenter.
Students who wish to pursue further college education have options in bachelor's and master's degree programs. These programs typically offer majors in construction engineering.