M.S. in Management of Information and Technology
The M.S. in Management of Information and Technology at OU is designed for individuals ...
M.S. in Construction Management
Norman, Oklahoma
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The M.S. in Construction Management at OU, also available as a Master of Construction Business (MCB) online, is structured to build upon existing construction knowledge and add a strong business and managerial dimension. The program typically requires 32-33 credit hours and offers both thesis and non-thesis options, catering to students interested in research or those aiming for direct industry application and leadership roles. It is designed to prepare construction industry professionals for job advancement, emphasizing managerial competencies, financial management, advanced construction concepts, and leadership. The program is flexible, with options for full-time or part-time study, and the online MCB program is particularly geared towards working professionals.
STEM Designated: Yes, the Master of Science in Construction Management at the University of Oklahoma is a STEM-designated program (CIP Code: 14.3301). This designation is highly advantageous for international students, as it allows for an Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension of 24 months, totaling up to 36 months of work authorization in the U.S. after graduation. This reflects the program's rigorous technical and analytical nature, blending engineering, business, and construction management concepts.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the M.S. in Construction Management is comprehensive, focusing on emerging construction trends, project delivery methods, and management practices. Core courses often include "Introduction to Construction Management," "Construction Business Development," "Advanced Lean Construction," "Advanced Leadership in Construction," and "Advanced Construction Law." The online Master of Construction Business (MCB) program also integrates courses from the Price College of Business, such as "Financial Accounting," "Financing Management," "Investments," "Negotiations," and "Management of Information Systems," providing a strong executive business foundation. The curriculum emphasizes the application of construction-related laws, dispute avoidance, and the development of negotiation, leadership, and communication skills across diverse teams.
Research Focus: Research plays a significant role in the M.S. in Construction Management program at OU, supporting decision-making and critical thinking skill development within the curriculum. While the M.S. can be an applied professional degree, students have opportunities to engage in research, particularly through the thesis option. Faculty research interests, which inform the program, often include areas such as sustainable construction practices, technology integration in construction (e.g., Building Information Modeling - BIM, advanced productivity tools), construction safety management, and decision-making processes in complex projects. The program encourages students to engage in projects that address contemporary issues in construction, contributing to the advancement of the field.
Industry Engagement: The University of Oklahoma's Haskell & Irene Lemon Construction Science Division maintains exceptionally strong ties with the construction industry, ensuring that the M.S. in Construction Management curriculum is highly relevant and provides excellent career opportunities. The division hosts career fairs every spring and fall, connecting students with industry professionals for internships and full-time employment. Students regularly participate in and excel in competitions sponsored by professional organizations like NAHB, TEXO, and DBIA, gaining valuable hands-on experience. The program's collaborations with local and national construction firms, including a Professional Advisory Board, facilitate internships, site tours, and direct interaction with industry members, preparing graduates for seamless transition into leadership roles.
Global Perspective: The M.S. in Construction Management at the University of Oklahoma inherently incorporates a global perspective, reflecting the international nature of the construction industry. Large-scale construction projects often involve international teams, global supply chains, and adherence to international standards and regulations. The program prepares graduates to understand diverse project delivery methods, legal frameworks, and management practices that may vary across different countries. OU's diverse student body, including a significant percentage of international students, fosters a multicultural learning environment that enriches discussions and provides insights into global construction trends and challenges, equipping graduates to work effectively in an interconnected global construction landscape.
Location
Norman, Oklahoma
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 22356
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $100
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 60 or higher.
Standardized Test Requirements
- GRE (Graduate Record Examinations): Minimum score of 300 required.
The University of Oklahoma offers a variety of scholarships specifically designed to support international students in achieving their academic goals. These scholarships aim to recognize outstanding academic achievements, leadership qualities, and contributions to the campus community while helping to make education more affordable for students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: OU awards several merit-based scholarships to incoming international undergraduate students based on academic excellence, standardized test scores, and extracurricular accomplishments. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are automatically considered during the admissions process or require a separate application.
International Ambassador Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate strong leadership skills, a commitment to cultural exchange, and active participation in university life. Recipients often serve as ambassadors for OU’s international community, promoting diversity and inclusion.
Graduate Fellowships and Assistantships: For international graduate students, OU offers numerous fellowships, research assistantships, and teaching assistantships. These positions provide financial support in the form of tuition waivers and stipends while offering valuable professional experience in academic and research settings.
Country-Specific Scholarships: OU periodically partners with governments, foundations, and organizations to offer scholarships targeting students from specific countries or regions. These scholarships foster international collaboration and cultural exchange.
External Scholarships and Financial Aid Resources: In addition to university-funded awards, OU provides guidance and resources to help international students find external scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities available through private organizations, embassies, and international agencies.
A Master of Science (M.S.) in Construction Management from the University of Oklahoma (OU) is a highly specialized and executive-focused degree designed to propel construction professionals into leadership roles. Housed within the Haskell & Irene Lemon Construction Science Division of the Gibbs College of Architecture, this program blends advanced construction knowledge with critical business and management skills, preparing graduates to tackle complex projects and lead diverse teams in the built environment.
Senior Construction Project Manager: Overseeing large-scale and complex construction projects from initiation to completion. This involves strategic planning, comprehensive risk management, resource allocation, budgeting, scheduling, and leading multiple project teams to ensure successful, on-time, and within-budget delivery.
Construction Executive/Vice President of Operations: A top-level leadership position within a construction company, responsible for the overall operational strategy, profitability, and growth of the business. This often involves developing long-term plans, fostering client relationships, and managing a portfolio of projects.
Construction Program Manager: Managing a portfolio of related construction projects, ensuring they align with an organization's strategic goals. This role requires a broad oversight, coordinating between various project managers and stakeholders to achieve larger program objectives.
Project Controls Manager: Specializing in the planning, monitoring, and controlling of project costs, schedules, and performance. They utilize advanced software and analytical techniques to forecast project outcomes, identify deviations, and implement corrective actions.
Construction Estimator (Senior/Chief): Developing detailed cost estimates for large and complex construction projects, considering materials, labor, equipment, and overheads. This requires a deep understanding of construction methods, market conditions, and contract terms.
Director of Preconstruction Services: Leading the early-stage planning and development of construction projects, including feasibility studies, conceptual estimating, value engineering, and constructability reviews. This role is crucial for securing projects and ensuring their initial viability.
Construction Consultant: Providing expert advice to clients on a range of construction-related issues, such as project management best practices, risk assessment, dispute resolution, contract negotiation, sustainable building strategies, or the implementation of new construction technologies.
Construction Technology Manager/BIM Manager: Specializing in the adoption and implementation of cutting-edge technologies within construction, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), drones, virtual/augmented reality, and other digital tools to enhance efficiency, collaboration, and project outcomes.
Facilities Director/Manager: Overseeing the management and maintenance of large commercial, institutional, or industrial facilities. This involves strategic planning for infrastructure projects, managing maintenance teams, budgeting for facility operations, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
Sustainable Construction Manager: Leading projects with a strong emphasis on environmentally friendly and sustainable building practices. They ensure adherence to green building standards (e.g., LEED), manage waste, source sustainable materials, and implement energy-efficient construction methods.
