Developing a new construction management program

Abstract

In Southeast Texas and throughout the globe there is an increasing demand for construction managers. Specifically, in the golden triangle area, plans for enlarging various petro-chemical plants and the establishment of a number of liquid gas terminals will require the hiring of many new construction managers. In fact, currently in Southeast Texas, $13.00 out of every $100 earned is done so in the construction industry. In order to meet this anticipated demand for construction managers, Lamar University has decided to introduce a B.S. in Construction Management Program into the curriculum. It's general mission will be to provide a quality program for preparing nationally competitive undergraduate students for a successful career in construction. The paper will describe the administrative details of developing the program. The Dean of Engineering, a chemical engineer, originally recommended the course requirements developed by a theoretical structural engineer. This program was found unsuitable by the University Curriculum Committee after consultation with individuals involved with construction. After considerable revision, a final program was sent to the Texas State Coordinating Board for approval. It is hoped that the B.S. in Construction Management Degree will provide educational, research and outreach opportunities that serve both the needs of students and those of the construction industry. © American Society for Engineering Education, 2007.