Top Construction Management Degree Programs In Missouri
Missouri’s growing infrastructure demands and urban development projects create a thriving environment for construction professionals. You could lead teams on commercial builds in Kansas City, manage sustainable housing initiatives in St. Louis, or oversee transportation upgrades across the state—all while earning a median salary exceeding $98,000 annually, according to recent regional labor data. With construction management roles projected to grow faster than average nationally over the next decade, positioning yourself with specialized education opens doors to leadership positions at firms like McCarthy Building Companies, Alberici Constructors, or PARIC Corporation.
An online construction management degree lets you build industry-specific skills in scheduling, cost estimation, and project delivery while maintaining your current job. Programs blend engineering principles with business strategy, preparing you to coordinate projects from blueprint to completion. Some Missouri schools offer courses developed with input from local contractors, ensuring you learn methods directly applicable to regional projects like mixed-use developments or renewable energy installations.
The state’s strategic location as a transportation hub fuels constant demand for professionals who can manage complex builds efficiently. You’ll find opportunities in diverse sectors—from healthcare campus expansions to advanced manufacturing facilities—with many employers prioritizing candidates who understand both traditional construction practices and emerging technologies like BIM software.
For those exploring educational pathways, Missouri institutions provide respected online options that adapt to professional schedules. Programs recognized for balancing theoretical knowledge with practical skills help bridge the gap between field experience and executive responsibilities. If you’re ready to advance your career while contributing to Missouri’s evolving skyline, online construction management programs in Missouri offer a structured path to leadership roles in this dynamic field.
Best Online Construction Management Degree Programs in Missouri
Below are the top-ranked Online Construction Management programs in Missouri, ranked according to quality, accreditation, cost, and other important factors.
Park University
Bachelor of Science in Construction Management
Key Highlights
- The program focuses on construction project management, including planning, scheduling, budgeting, and safety.
- Graduates gain skills in construction law, materials science, construction methods, and plans analysis.
- The program prepares students for roles in project management and building inspection.
- The program is offered through the School of Business.
- The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Description
The Bachelor of Science in Construction Management program at Park University, offered through the School of Business, focuses on construction project management, including planning, scheduling, budgeting, organizing, supervising, safety, law, materials, methods, and plans analysis. The program combines business management principles with construction management skills, preparing students for roles in project management and building inspection. Students can take face-to-face classes at campus centers nationwide or complete the program online.
Program Features
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Transfer Credits: Accepted
Skills You'll Gain
Construction project management, Planning, Scheduling, Budgeting, Organizing, Supervising, Safety regulations, Construction law, Materials science, Construction methods, Plans analysis, Financial management
Tuition & Costs
- In-State Tuition: $34,685/year
- Out-of-State Tuition: $34,685/year
Sample Courses
Construction project management, Planning, Scheduling, Budgeting, Organizing...
University of Central Missouri
Construction Management, BS
Key Highlights
- The Construction Management, BS program at the University of Central Missouri is ABET-accredited.
- Students gain technical skills in specialized software and practical experience in commercial, civil, industrial, and residential projects.
- Graduates are prepared for the Associate Constructor Certification Exam.
- The program emphasizes skills in Project Cost Estimating, Engineering Geology, and Commercial Architectural Design/Drafting.
- J.E. Dunn and Turner Construction have hired UCM graduates.
- The University of Central Missouri is one of the oldest and best construction management schools in the region.
Program Description
The University of Central Missouri's Bachelor of Science in Construction Management program offers real-world training taught by experienced professionals in small class sizes. Students gain practical job skills and insights into the construction field. The program provides a broad education to support various career paths, foundational knowledge, and skills in diverse subjects to maximize job potential. Graduates are prepared to become leaders in the construction industry, with training and practical experience in commercial, civil, industrial, and residential projects.
Program Features
- Accreditation: ABET
- Transfer Credits: Accepted
Skills You'll Gain
Project Cost Estimating, Engineering Geology, Commercial Architectural Design/Drafting, Technical skills in specialized software, Construction Management
Tuition & Costs
- In-State Tuition: $8,325/year
- Out-of-State Tuition: $16,650/year
Sample Courses
Project Cost Estimating, Engineering Geology, Commercial Architectural Design/Drafting
Why Pick an Online Construction Management Degree in Missouri?
Choosing an online construction management degree in Missouri positions you to capitalize on a rapidly expanding job market, with the state projected to add 790 new construction management roles by 2030—a 15% growth rate that nearly doubles the national average for this field Missouri Employment Trends. This surge stems from major infrastructure upgrades, renewable energy projects, and commercial expansions in hubs like Kansas City and St. Louis, where firms actively seek graduates who understand regional building codes and sustainable practices. You’ll enter a workforce where entry-level salaries start around $70,000 even without prior field experience, with rapid advancement potential in sectors like healthcare construction or advanced manufacturing.
Missouri’s online programs stand out for their direct alignment with employer needs, offering courses co-developed by local firms working on projects like I-70 corridor upgrades or solar farm installations. This regional focus ensures you gain skills in high-demand areas like BIM coordination and LEED certification processes—competencies prioritized by employers such as Alberici Constructors and PARIC Corporation. Networking opportunities through organizations like the Associated General Contractors of Missouri further connect you to unadvertised roles, with over 6,000 annual job openings expected statewide through 2030 due to retirements and industry expansion Occupational Projections.
The flexibility of online learning lets you maintain current employment while preparing for leadership roles in a state where construction spending exceeds $15 billion annually. With Missouri’s strategic location as a transportation hub and its push toward green building initiatives, your degree becomes a gateway to managing projects that shape the region’s economic future. Start building your career in a market where demand outpaces supply—enroll in an online program today to align your skills with Missouri’s next decade of growth.
Where Can You Work After Graduating in Missouri?
After completing an online construction management program in Missouri, you’ll find opportunities with both established firms and growing companies across the state. Major employers like McCarthy Holdings, Inc. and JE Dunn Construction frequently hire for roles such as project managers, site supervisors, and cost estimators. McCarthy, recognized as one of Missouri’s top construction employers, specializes in large-scale commercial and infrastructure projects, offering structured mentorship programs and a collaborative team environment. JE Dunn, another industry leader, provides roles in healthcare and education construction sectors, with benefits like profit-sharing and leadership development tracks for early-career professionals.
Alberici Constructors, also highlighted among Missouri’s best construction companies, focuses on industrial and energy projects, often hiring graduates with skills in sustainable building practices. Their St. Louis headquarters serves as a hub for innovation, with opportunities to work on LEED-certified projects. For those interested in residential or specialty contracting, Five Star Bath Solutions of Columbia lists openings for project coordinators and renovation managers on Indeed, offering paid training and flexible scheduling.
Job boards like ZipRecruiter show over 6,000 construction management roles statewide, including positions with mid-sized firms in Kansas City and Springfield. Many companies prioritize candidates with BIM software proficiency or OSHA certification. Regional industry clusters in St. Louis and Kansas City provide access to transportation, healthcare, and mixed-use development projects, while startups in renewable energy construction are expanding in Columbia and Jefferson City.
To maximize your job search, connect with local chapters of the Associated General Contractors of Missouri or attend career fairs hosted by technical colleges. Update your LinkedIn profile with keywords like “project scheduling” or “contract negotiation” to align with employer searches. Many Missouri firms value hands-on internships, so highlight fieldwork or virtual collaboration experience from your online program during interviews.
How Much Can You Earn as a Construction Manager in Missouri?
If you’re considering a career as a construction manager in Missouri, you’ll find salaries vary based on experience and role. According to Indeed’s construction manager salary data, professionals in this field earn an average of $99,753 annually. This figure reflects general management roles, with senior professionals often exceeding this amount through bonuses or specialized projects. Entry-level positions typically start lower, often in the $70,000–$80,000 range, while mid-career professionals (3–7 years) can expect $85,000–$95,000. For those focused on specific projects, Indeed’s construction project manager data shows a slightly lower average of $85,308 per year, highlighting how role specialization impacts earnings.
Missouri’s salaries generally trail the national average for construction managers, which sits around $107,000 annually. However, ZipRecruiter’s analysis offers a nuanced view, reporting an average hourly wage of $42.92 (roughly $89,268 yearly) for broader construction management roles. Geographic location within Missouri plays a role here—urban areas like St. Louis or Kansas City often pay 10–15% more than rural regions. Certifications like the Certified Construction Manager (CCM) credential or expertise in high-demand sectors like sustainable building can push salaries toward the top of these ranges.
Looking ahead, infrastructure investments and commercial development in Missouri are expected to drive demand for skilled managers. With the right mix of experience, certifications, and strategic industry focus, you could see earnings grow steadily—senior roles in complex projects or large firms often reach $120,000+. While starting salaries may feel modest compared to coastal states, Missouri’s lower cost of living balances the equation, making it a viable long-term career path.
FAQs About Online Construction Management Degree Programs in Missouri
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What accreditation should I look for in a Missouri construction management program? A: Prioritize programs accredited by ABET (like University of Central Missouri’s BS program) or the Higher Learning Commission (used by Park University). ABET specifically validates STEM-focused programs, ensuring technical rigor for engineering-related roles.
Q: How long does it take to complete an online construction management degree? A: Most bachelor’s programs take 4 years full-time. Part-time students often take 5-6 years while balancing work commitments.
Q: Can I work full-time while studying online? A: Yes – online programs like Park University’s offer asynchronous courses and flexible scheduling. Many students maintain full-time jobs, but you’ll need to dedicate 15-20 hours weekly to coursework.
Q: What job roles do graduates typically pursue in Missouri? A: Common entry-level positions include project coordinator (avg. $62k), estimator ($68k), or assistant superintendent. With experience, graduates advance to roles like construction project manager ($85k+) at firms like McCarthy or JE Dunn.
Q: Are there scholarships available for online students in Missouri? A: Many schools offer merit-based aid – University of Central Missouri provides program-specific scholarships. Check with financial aid offices and explore industry options through groups like Associated General Contractors of Missouri.
Q: How do online programs compare to in-person learning for construction management? A: Online programs cover identical content but use virtual tools for collaboration. You’ll miss some hands-on labs but gain digital project management skills crucial for modern workflows like BIM coordination.
Q: Do these programs prepare you for certification exams? A: ABET-accredited programs (like UCM’s) align with Certified Construction Manager (CCM) exam requirements. Many courses include OSHA safety training and LEED concepts for green building certifications.
Q: What support do online students receive from Missouri schools? A: Schools typically provide 24/7 tech support, virtual tutoring, and career services. Park University offers dedicated academic advisors and networking events with regional employers through its online platform.