Program Overview
Western New England University's Construction Management program equips students with the technical and business skills to manage construction projects effectively. The program emphasizes scientific knowledge, lifelong learning, and project management proficiency. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of civil and industrial engineering, business management, and construction law and ethics through a diverse curriculum and hands-on experiences.
Program Outline
Construction Management at Western New England University
Degree Overview
Overview
The Construction Management program at Western New England University prepares students for careers in the construction industry by equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to manage all aspects of construction projects, from planning and design to execution and completion. The program emphasizes both technical knowledge and business acumen, ensuring graduates are well-rounded professionals capable of leading and overseeing successful construction projects.
Objectives
The Construction Management program has several educational objectives, including:
- Providing a strong foundation in scientific and technical knowledge: Graduates will possess a comprehensive understanding of the principles of engineering, construction methods, and materials.
- Fostering lifelong learning: The program instills in its graduates a commitment to continuous learning and professional development, ensuring they stay abreast of the latest advancements in the construction industry.
- Developing project management skills: Graduates will be proficient in planning, designing, analyzing, developing, organizing, and managing construction projects effectively.
Program Description
The Construction Management program is a comprehensive and well-rounded curriculum that combines engineering principles with business fundamentals. Students will acquire a solid understanding of:
- Civil and industrial engineering: This includes courses in surveying, soil behavior, construction materials, and structural analysis.
- Business management: Students will gain knowledge of accounting, finance, project management, and contract administration.
- Construction law and ethics: The program ensures graduates understand legal aspects of construction and uphold ethical standards in the industry.
Outline
Program Content
The Construction Management program encompasses a diverse range of courses designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge. Some core courses include:
- Surveying: This course introduces students to the principles and practices of land surveying, including measurements, data collection, and mapping.
- Accounting: Students learn fundamental accounting principles, including financial reporting, budgeting, and cost analysis, essential for managing construction projects effectively.
- CAD (Computer-Aided Design): This course provides hands-on training in using computer software for designing and drafting construction plans and drawings.
- Soil Behavior and Site Development: Students gain knowledge of soil properties, geotechnical considerations, and site preparation techniques crucial for ensuring the stability and safety of construction projects.
- Construction Project Bidding and Cost Management: This course provides students with the skills to estimate project costs, prepare bids, and manage budgets effectively.
- Material Quality Control: Students learn how to ensure the quality of construction materials and implement effective quality control measures throughout the construction process.
- Construction Machinery: This course provides an overview of various types of construction equipment and their applications in different project phases.
Program Structure
The Construction Management program follows a traditional academic structure with semesters divided into fall and spring terms. Each term typically involves 4-5 courses, ensuring students gain a thorough understanding of different areas within the field.
Course Schedule
The specific course schedule for each term may vary, but generally, students can expect to take foundational courses in their first year, progressing gradually to more advanced topics in later years.
Assessment
Assessment Methods
The Construction Management program employs a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning outcomes. These methods include:
- Assignments and projects: Students complete individual and group assignments and projects to demonstrate their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.
- Presentations: Students present their work to peers and faculty, developing communication and presentation skills crucial for professional settings.
Assessment Criteria
The assessment criteria vary depending on the specific assessment method. However, common criteria include accuracy, completeness, clarity, and demonstration of critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Teaching
Teaching Methods
The Construction Management program employs diverse teaching methods to cater to various learning styles and enhance student engagement. These methods include:
- Lectures: Faculty members deliver lectures to introduce key concepts and theoretical frameworks.
- Interactive discussions: Class discussions encourage active participation and facilitate deeper understanding of complex topics.
- Case studies: Students analyze real-world construction scenarios, learning from both successful and unsuccessful projects.
- Laboratory exercises: Hands-on laboratory experiences allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical tasks and gain experience using industry-standard equipment and software.
Faculty
The Construction Management program boasts a team of experienced and qualified faculty members with extensive industry experience and academic credentials. The faculty hold PhD degrees from renowned institutions and are committed to providing students with a high-quality education and mentorship.
Unique Approaches
The program utilizes several unique approaches to enhance student learning and prepare them for successful careers. These include:
- First-Year Design Program: Freshmen participate in a hands-on design project, fostering creativity, innovation, and problem-solving skills.
- Senior Design Project: Students tackle a real-world industry project, culminating their education with a practical and challenging application of their accumulated knowledge and skills.
- Internship opportunities: Students are encouraged to gain industry experience through internships, applying classroom knowledge to real-world projects and building professional network