The Construction Management program offered at Western Illinois University is specifically designed to develop students' skills to meet the management/technical needs of residential and commercial construction firms. Successful students gain competitive real-world skills & experience.
Courses taught within the construction area have a laboratory component. Students participate in framing, masonry work, HVAC and electrical/plumbing activities while broadening their technical skills. Along with traditional design skills, they may also choose courses that help them develop architectural drafting skills utilizing computer aided design hardware and software.
Possible Careers
- Construction Estimating
- Materials
- Surveying
- Project Management
- Safety
- Architectural Design
Why Choose Construction Management at WIU?
- WIU is one of three universities in the state offering this program.
- Major construction companies have recruited WIU Construction Management graduates to manage corporate construction projects with starting salaries over $60,000.
- Courses have a "lab" component; development of skills with hands-on experience is mixed with theoretical management background.
A key component of the Construction Management curriculum is the required internship, which is completed after attending a series of preparatory seminars. Every student in his or her junior or senior year earns course credit for successfully applying knowledge while gaining invaluable on-the-job experience. By securing an internship in any approved construction field, each student has the opportunity to enhance his or her skills in a professional work environment of particular interest. Many students report that this experience helps them focus their career goals and make vital industry contacts that directly benefit them upon graduation.
Field experiences allow students to be involved in activities that simulate those on a construction site.
Field trips to construction sites allow students opportunities to view and experience first-hand state-of-the-art building materials and techniques.