In the fast-paced world of construction, the role of a project manager has become increasingly significant. As we move into 2024, the industry faces new challenges and opportunities, highlighting the need for robust and comprehensive construction project management courses.
With so many out there, I have done the research for you. In this article, I will outline the 7 best construction project management courses available online in 2024, focusing on their content, delivery methods, cost, and how they cater to the current needs of the industry. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clearer understanding of which course might be the best fit for your career aspirations and professional development.
These online courses not only provide the latest knowledge and skills but also prepare professionals for the evolving demands of the construction sector:
- Construction Project Management Program | EMERITUS & Columbia Engineering Executive Education
- Construction Project Management Certificate | University of San Diego
- Certificate in Construction Project Management | RICS
- Professional Certificate in Construction Project Management | San Diego State University (SDSU) Global Campus
- Google Project Management Certificate + Construction Management Specialization | Coursera (Google + Columbia University)
- Construction Management Certificate Program | UC Davis
- PMI-CP Construction Project Management | Institute of Project Management (IPM)
Skip to the end for a neat summary table of the costs and timeline for each course.
First, I’ll review the common themes found in these courses and the importance of earning online certifications…
Construction Project Management Courses: What do you learn?
- The Role of Technology and Innovation: Modern construction project management courses integrate state-of-the-art tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM) and advanced project management software to mirror the digital transformation in the construction industry. This integration equips students with practical skills in handling digital tools that are increasingly becoming the backbone of construction projects. Understanding these tools is vital for managing complex construction projects efficiently and effectively.
- Leadership and Strategic Management in Construction: Leadership and strategic management form the cornerstone of these construction project management courses. They focus on developing strong leadership skills and strategic thinking essential for managing large-scale projects. These courses teach how to lead diverse teams, manage resources efficiently, and make strategic decisions that align with both project goals and broader company objectives. This holistic approach ensures that graduates are not just skilled in technical aspects but are also capable leaders who can navigate the complexities of the construction industry.
Why Construction Project Management Courses Matter
- Career Advancement and Industry Recognition: Enrolling in these top-tier courses can be a transformative step for professionals seeking career advancement in construction project management. The credentials and knowledge gained through these programs are highly regarded in the industry, often leading to better job opportunities and roles with greater responsibility. Graduates from these programs are seen as well-equipped to handle complex projects and are often sought after by top construction firms.
- Skills Development and Real-World Application: The skills developed in these courses have a direct application in the real world. They cover a range of competencies, from technical project management skills to soft skills like leadership and communication, which are crucial for a successful career in construction project management. This holistic approach to skills development ensures that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also adaptable and capable of applying their learning in various real-world scenarios, making them valuable assets in any construction project team.
Top 7 Construction Project Management Courses in 2024
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it covers a variety of options in terms of time commitment, cost, and focus areas, making them suitable for a wide range of learners looking for online training in construction project management.
(All information provided, especially regarding price, is ‘as of time of writing’ and is in USD unless otherwise specified.)
1. Construction Project Management Program | EMERITUS & Columbia Engineering Executive Education
- Features: This course offers a detailed exploration of the construction industry, covering topics from project development to risk management, and trends in the construction industry. It is designed for mid-career to senior construction professionals.
- Time and Cost: The course duration is 3 months of online work, 4-6 hours per week. The cost is $1,357.
- Flexibility: The course is offered online, providing flexibility for professionals to balance their learning with work commitments.
- When: This course starts on March 6, 2024 but the organizers have indicated that there may be more offerings in the future.
- Where to get started: https://online-exec.cvn.columbia.edu/construction-project-management
2. Construction Project Management Certificate | University of San Diego
- Features: This program includes courses on project management fundamentals, introduction to construction project management, and various aspects of resource, communications, risk, and procurement management. It emphasizes practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge.
- Time and Cost: Each course in the program has a specified duration and cost, for example, “Project Management Fundamentals” is available at $379 for a self-paced format. The program can be completed at the student’s own pace within a specified timeframe.
- Flexibility: Courses are offered in both online self-paced and fixed-date formats, providing flexibility for professionals to choose a learning schedule that suits them.
- Where to get started: https://pce.sandiego.edu/certificates/construction-project-management-certificate/
3. Certificate in Construction Project Management | RICS
- Features: This course aims to develop skills in managing clients and stakeholders, understanding legal and contractual aspects, applying effective cost control, performing risk management, and more. It covers various stages of a construction project.
- Time and Cost: The course cost is £1,478.00, and it includes six modules plus an exam. Each module is expected to take about a month to complete, with additional time for the final exam and any outstanding work.
- Flexibility: The course is fully online, allowing learners to study at their own pace. It includes access to eLearning, reading materials, case studies, quizzes, and live online consolidation sessions.
- Where to get started: https://academy.rics.org/distance-learning/project-management/certificate-construction-project-management
4. Professional Certificate in Construction Project Management | San Diego State University (SDSU) Global Campus
- Key Features: This program focuses on real-life issues and job-related problems in construction, covering principles of project management, construction planning and scheduling, legal aspects, and principles of green construction. It’s led by expert instructors from the construction industry.
- Time and Cost: The program can be completed in as few as five months, with about five hours of study per week, per class. Each course costs $690.
- Flexibility: 100% online and accessible from anywhere, with the option to take up to two years to complete all your courses.
- Where to get started: https://ces.sdsu.edu/construction/professional-certificate-construction-project-management
5. Google Project Management Certificate + Construction Management Specialization | Coursera
- Key Features: Developed by Columbia University’s Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science alongside Google, this two-part program provides foundational project management training with an additional focus on construction management. It covers topics like Agile project management, project planning, scheduling techniques, cost estimation, and more.
- Time and Cost: The general project management certificate can be completed in about three to six months with 10 hours of study a week. The construction specialization is approximately 3 months with 10 hours per week. Coursera charges a monthly fee ($49) after an initial 7-day free trial for access to their courses.
- Flexibility: This program is fully online and self-paced, making it ideal for individuals starting out or looking to switch into construction project management.
- Where to get started: Google Project Management and Construction Management Specialization
6. Construction Management Certificate Program | UC Davis
- Key Features: This program offers comprehensive training in construction management, covering construction plan reading, construction law and contracts, construction accounting, estimating, and project planning. It’s designed to be up-to-date with the latest industry standards.
- Time and Cost: Complete in 12 months. 6 online courses, consisting of 20 required units with a grade of “C” or better. Courses may be taken individually or as part of the certificate program, offering flexibility in terms of time and financial commitment. The cost is between $4,462.50-$5,250.00, depending on if you pay for the entire program up front, or pay on a course by course basis.
- Flexibility: Courses are offered online, and the program is designed to be completed within five years from enrollment in the first course, allowing for considerable flexibility in pacing.
- Where to get started: https://cpe.ucdavis.edu/certificate-program/construction-management-certificate-program
7. PMI-CP Construction Project Management | Institute of Project Management (IPM)
- Key Features: The program offers a comprehensive curriculum focused on the construction industry, covering key areas such as project scope, scheduling, resource allocation, risk mitigation, cost management, procurement processes, and regulatory compliance throughout the contract lifecycle. Designed for professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in construction project leadership, it aligns with PMI-CP standards and combines theory with practical application. The course is suitable for both new and experienced project managers. Students who complete this course will earn a globally recognized certification.
- Time and Cost: The course takes place over 4 days, comprising 35 contact hours that contribute towards your Continuing Professional Development record. The cost is $1,750 USD.
- Flexibility: Courses are offered within a specific time frame but are available online.
- Where to get started: https://instituteprojectmanagement.com/courses/construction-project-management/
Choosing the Right Construction Project Management Course for Your Future
Selecting the right construction project management course is a critical decision that can significantly impact your career trajectory. The courses discussed in this article provide a blend of technical expertise, practical skills, and leadership training, essential for thriving in the construction industry. As you consider your options, reflect on your career goals and how these courses align with them. With the right choice, you can set yourself on a path to success, equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the ever-evolving world of construction project management.
Construction Project Management Courses Summary Table
| Time / Length of Program | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| EMERITUS & Columbia Engineering Executive Education |
Self-paced. 3 months of online work, 4-6 hours per week. |
$1,357.00 USD |
| University of San Diego | Fundamentals course is self-paced. 4 other courses range from 7 to 8 weeks in duration. |
Fundamentals course is $379.00 USD. 4 other courses are $679.00 USD each. |
| RICS | Self-paced. Six modules at approximately one month each. |
£1,478.00 |
| SDSU Global Campus | 5 months with 5 hrs of study per week. | $690.00 USD |
| Coursera | Project Management: 3-6 six months with 10 hrs of study a week. Construction specialization: 3 months with 10 hrs per week. |
$65 per month after an initial 7-day free trial (Coursera Plus) |
| UC Davis | 12 months for 6 online courses. | $4,462.50 to $5,250.00 USD |
| Institute of Project Management | 35 hour course over 4 specific days. | $1,759 USD |
