M.S. in Criminal Justice
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M.S. in Engineering Management: Construction Management
Chattanooga, Tennessee
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.S. in Engineering Management: Construction Management at UTC provides a comprehensive curriculum that blends foundational engineering management principles with specific knowledge pertinent to the construction industry. The program addresses crucial aspects such as project planning, scheduling, finance, legal considerations, and technological advancements relevant to construction. It is particularly well-suited for working professionals, offering flexible scheduling options, including fully online delivery, to accommodate diverse student needs. The program typically consists of 30-36 credit hours, which can often be completed within two years for full-time students. Its mission is to prepare graduates for successful careers in construction-related industries, government, and potentially academia, emphasizing practical application and lifelong learning.
STEM-Designated: Yes, the M.S. in Engineering Management, including its Construction Management concentration, at UTC is a STEM-designated program. This is a significant advantage, especially for international students, as it makes them eligible for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension. This extension allows international graduates to work in the U.S. for up to 36 months after graduation, providing extended opportunities to gain valuable practical experience and potentially pursue long-term careers in the construction industry. The STEM designation underscores the program's rigorous quantitative, technical, and analytical curriculum.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the M.S. in Engineering Management: Construction Management is designed to equip students with a robust skill set for leading construction projects. It integrates core engineering management courses with specialized construction management topics. Core courses often include Concepts in Engineering Management, Technical Project Management, Advanced Engineering Economics, Strategic Management and Technology, and a Capstone Project. The construction management concentration then delves into specialized subjects such as Sustainability and LEED, Construction Law: Contracts and Claims, Strategic Bidding and Estimating, and Advanced Operations and Constructability. Electives might also include topics like Design and Construction of Tall Buildings, Decision Making and Optimization Techniques, and Legal and Ethical Perspectives in Engineering, providing a holistic understanding of the construction project lifecycle.
Research Focus: While the M.S. in Engineering Management: Construction Management is heavily focused on practical application and leadership, it also incorporates an emphasis on applied research and problem-solving within the construction domain. The capstone project, for example, typically involves an in-depth analysis of a real-world construction management challenge, requiring students to apply research methodologies to propose data-driven solutions. Faculty in the Department of Engineering Management & Technology often have expertise in areas such as construction safety, project delivery methods, sustainable construction, building information modeling (BIM), and complex systems modeling relevant to construction. This provides opportunities for students to engage with practical research that addresses current industry needs and challenges.
Industry Engagement: The UTC M.S. in Engineering Management: Construction Management program strongly emphasizes industry engagement to ensure graduates are well-prepared for professional roles. The curriculum is developed with input from industry partners to reflect current construction trends, best practices, and technological advancements. Many faculty members have practical experience in the construction sector, bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world application. The program also encourages students to establish working relationships with the local construction industry through internships, project collaborations, and networking events. Graduates are highly sought after by construction firms, consulting companies, and government agencies, reflecting the program's strong ties to the professional world.
Global Perspective: The M.S. in Engineering Management: Construction Management at UTC inherently fosters a global perspective by addressing universal principles of project management, infrastructure development, and sustainable construction practices that are applicable worldwide. Construction projects increasingly involve international collaboration, global supply chains, and adherence to international standards. The program's focus on strategic management, risk assessment, and legal aspects within the construction context prepares graduates to navigate multicultural environments and lead projects with international implications. By understanding global best practices in construction technology, sustainability, and project delivery, graduates are equipped to contribute to complex infrastructure initiatives on a global scale.
Location
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 26852
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $40
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.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing their education in the United States. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to the campus community, helping to make higher education more affordable and accessible for students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: UTC provides merit-based scholarships that international students can apply for, typically based on their academic achievements, standardized test scores, and overall potential. These scholarships often cover partial to full tuition and are renewable based on maintaining satisfactory academic performance.
International Student Scholarships: Special scholarships are available exclusively for international students, helping offset tuition fees and living expenses. These awards may vary annually and are competitive, encouraging students to demonstrate strong academic records and involvement in extracurricular activities.
Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at UTC offer scholarships targeted at students within specific fields of study. International students enrolled in areas such as Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, or Arts and Sciences can explore scholarship options through their respective colleges or departments.
A Master of Science (M.S.) in Engineering Management with a Construction Management concentration from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) provides a powerful combination of technical expertise and advanced business acumen, specifically tailored for the dynamic construction industry. Graduates are equipped to lead, innovate, and manage complex construction projects, making them highly valuable assets to construction firms, consulting agencies, and government entities. The construction sector consistently demands skilled professionals who can navigate project complexities, manage resources efficiently, and ensure successful delivery.
Construction Project Manager: This is a primary and highly sought-after role. Graduates are responsible for overseeing all phases of a construction project, from initial planning and budgeting to execution, quality control, and final completion. They manage teams, coordinate subcontractors, and ensure projects stay on schedule and within budget.
Senior Estimator/Cost Engineer: With advanced knowledge of construction processes and economics, graduates excel at analyzing project plans, specifications, and timelines to accurately calculate labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor costs. They play a crucial role in preparing competitive bids and ensuring project profitability.
Construction Superintendent: These professionals act as the on-site leaders of a construction project. They manage daily operations, supervise tradespeople, ensure adherence to safety regulations and quality standards, and coordinate all on-site activities to keep the project moving forward efficiently.
Construction Director/Operations Director: With an M.S. and relevant experience, graduates can advance to strategic leadership roles, overseeing multiple construction projects or the entire operations of a construction company. They develop organizational strategies, manage large teams, and drive overall business growth.
Construction Consultant: Graduates can work for consulting firms, advising clients (developers, owners, or other construction companies) on project feasibility, risk management, sustainable construction practices, legal and contractual matters, and improving operational efficiency.
Sustainability Consultant (Construction): With a growing emphasis on green building, graduates can specialize in guiding construction projects to adopt environmentally friendly practices, achieve sustainability certifications (like LEED), and implement innovative solutions for energy efficiency and resource conservation.
Construction Claims Analyst/Contract Administrator: These professionals specialize in the legal and contractual aspects of construction. They manage and review contracts, address disputes, analyze claims, and ensure compliance with contractual obligations for all parties involved in a project.
Risk Manager (Construction): Identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks inherent in construction projects is a critical function. Graduates develop strategies to manage financial, operational, safety, and environmental risks, ensuring project resilience and success.
Building Information Modeling (BIM) Manager: As BIM becomes central to modern construction, graduates can manage BIM processes, coordinate digital models, and leverage data for improved project planning, design, and execution. This role combines technical proficiency with project management skills.
Facilities Manager (Post-Construction): While focused on management, a strong understanding of construction is vital for effective facilities management. Graduates can oversee the long-term maintenance, operation, and asset management of large buildings and infrastructure after their completion, ensuring optimal performance and cost efficiency.
