Roger Williams University

What you'll study

This four‑year bachelor programme combines classroom instruction, laboratory work and field experience to develop competence in construction technology, project management and professional practice. Core subject areas include construction materials and methods, structural systems, building codes and regulations, construction estimating and cost control, scheduling and CPM, building information modelling (BIM), construction safety and risk management, and sustainable construction practices.

Typical modules and learning experiences you can expect:

• Construction Materials & Methods: properties and selection of common construction materials, assemblies and sequencing of on‑site work.
• Construction Estimating & Cost Control: quantity takeoffs, unit pricing, budget preparation and cost monitoring techniques.
• Scheduling & Project Controls: critical path method (CPM), resource levelling, progress measurement and use of scheduling software.
• Building Information Modelling (BIM): digital modelling for coordination, clash detection and construction documentation workflows.
• Contract Administration & Legal Issues: contract types, procurement methods, claims management and fundamentals of construction law.
• Site Management & Field Operations: supervision, quality control, site logistics, temporary works and health and safety practice.
• Sustainability & Green Building: energy‑efficient construction, materials selection, and rating systems such as LEED principles.
• Surveying & Layout: fundamentals of construction surveying, measurement and layout techniques used on site.
• Capstone / Senior Project: team‑based project that integrates estimating, scheduling, and site management to deliver a simulated or real construction project.

Students also take supporting courses in mathematics, structural principles, communications and business fundamentals. The programme emphasises hands‑on labs, site visits and industry internships to link theory to practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent with evidence of strong performance in mathematics. Suggested preparation includes courses in algebra, geometry/trigonometry and physics. Roger Williams University typically considers an applicant's overall academic record, personal statement and any relevant work or extracurricular experience. Standardised test scores (SAT/ACT) may be optional depending on current admissions policies.

International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications if English is not their first language. Mature applicants with relevant construction or technical experience are also considered through the university's admissions processes.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a broad range of roles across the construction sector and related industries. Typical entry and mid‑career positions include construction project manager, assistant project manager, construction superintendent/site manager, cost estimator, scheduler/planner, field engineer, contract administrator and quality/safety manager. Other career paths lead to roles in facilities management, preconstruction services, construction consultancy and specialist areas such as sustainable design or building information modelling coordination.

Many graduates work for general contractors, specialty subcontractors, construction management firms, developers, owners and consulting practices. The degree also provides a pathway to professional certifications (for example, construction management and safety credentials) and graduate studies in construction management, engineering, architecture or business.

Why study at Roger Williams University

Roger Williams University combines small‑group teaching with an emphasis on experiential learning, giving construction management students regular access to labs, hands‑on projects and regional job sites. The programme benefits from close collaboration with allied departments such as architecture, engineering and business, enabling interdisciplinary project work that mirrors industry practice.

Students gain practical experience through internships, cooperative opportunities and site visits in the New England construction market, supported by faculty with industry experience and professional networks. The campus environment and student support services aim to develop both technical competence and the communication, leadership and ethical skills employers seek in construction professionals.