Central Washington University

What you'll study

The programme combines general education and core construction management coursework to give students both a broad academic foundation and job‑ready technical skills. Early years cover fundamentals such as construction materials and methods, drafting/CAD, surveying and construction math. Core major courses progress into estimating, scheduling, project controls, construction safety, building codes, construction law and contract administration.

Upper‑division study typically includes advanced project management, cost control, construction systems (mechanical, electrical, structural), sustainable construction practices, building information modelling (BIM) and a capstone design/build or project management practicum. Throughout the degree students engage in site visits, lab work, field exercises and an industry internship or cooperative placement to apply classroom learning on real projects.

• Introduction to Construction Materials and Methods
• Construction Drafting and CAD/BIM
• Estimating and Cost Management
• Scheduling and Project Controls
• Construction Safety and Risk Management
• Construction Law and Contracts
• Soils, Foundations and Site Development
• Leadership, Communication and Construction Business Practices
• Senior Capstone or Internship/Practicum

Entry requirements

Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent. Typical academic preparation includes English, mathematics (algebra and often precalculus or trigonometry), and science; coursework or experience in drafting, design or shop classes is helpful but not mandatory. Admissions consider high school GPA and other application materials; standardised tests may be optional depending on institutional policy.

Transfer students are admitted with college-level coursework; relevant credit is often awarded for completed technical or general education courses. Applicants without construction background should expect introductory coursework in the first year to build technical literacy.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across commercial, residential, heavy/civil and industrial sectors. Common job titles include construction manager, project manager, field superintendent, estimator, scheduler, site engineer, safety manager and facilities project coordinator. With experience, many graduates move into senior project leadership, development, or start their own contracting or consultancy practices.

The programme’s practicum and internship components, plus local industry connections, support entry to positions with contractors, construction management firms, design‑build companies, real estate developers, public agencies and engineering consultancies.

Why study at Central Washington University

Central Washington University offers a hands‑on Construction Management degree delivered in a small‑class environment where students get regular access to faculty with industry experience. The campus location in Ellensburg provides proximity to a diverse Pacific Northwest construction market, enabling field trips, site access and employer partnerships.

Facilities and practical learning experiences — including materials testing, laboratory exercises, equipment demonstrations and an industry internship or capstone project — emphasise applied skills employers seek. Students also benefit from career services, networking events and student organisations that connect them to regional contractors and professional bodies to support early career placement and ongoing professional development.