Top Construction Management Degree Programs In Rhode Island
Rhode Island’s construction industry is booming, with infrastructure projects and residential developments creating demand for skilled professionals who can lead teams and manage budgets effectively. If you’re looking to step into leadership roles or increase your earning potential, an online construction management education could give you the credentials to stand out. The state’s median salary for construction managers hovers around $110,000 annually, with experienced professionals often earning significantly more as they oversee projects for employers like Gilbane Building Company, Dimeo Construction, or Trimountaine Inc. Job growth in this field outpaces many other industries, driven by Rhode Island’s focus on upgrading aging bridges, expanding renewable energy infrastructure, and developing mixed-use spaces in cities like Providence.
Online programs let you balance coursework with current job responsibilities while learning practical skills like project scheduling, cost estimation, and sustainable building practices. You’ll gain expertise directly applicable to Rhode Island’s specific construction needs, from coastal resilience projects to historic renovations. Some respected local institutions, including New England Institute of Technology, offer programs recognized for blending technical training with management theory—preparing you to handle real-world challenges from day one.
With Rhode Island’s construction sector projected to grow steadily over the next decade, now is an ideal time to position yourself for roles that combine hands-on problem-solving with strategic planning. Whether you’re aiming to transition from fieldwork to office leadership or want to specialize in high-demand areas like green building standards, the right education can open doors to projects shaping the state’s skyline and communities. Explore how flexible online formats could help you build the career you want without putting your current job on hold.
Best Online Construction Management Degree Programs in Rhode Island
Below are the top-ranked Online Construction Management programs in Rhode Island, ranked according to quality, accreditation, cost, and other important factors.
New England Institute of Technology
Construction Management Bachelor’s Degree, BS
Key Highlights
- The program emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking, and management skills.
- Students complete a Senior Thesis project.
- Skills gained include estimations, contract negotiation, safety management, team management, and project scheduling.
- Coursework includes Structural Wood Design, Structural Steel Design, and Construction Law.
- The program is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Program Description
The Bachelor of Science in Construction Management program at New England Institute of Technology (NEIT) blends design, technology, and building science. It emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking, and management skills necessary for success in the construction industry. Students gain a sense of professionalism and learn to integrate engineering and sustainability principles, preparing them for rewarding careers. The program includes a Senior Thesis project to showcase their understanding of construction principles.
Program Features
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Transfer Credits: Accepted
Skills You'll Gain
Estimations, Contract Negotiation, Safety Management, Team Management, Project Scheduling, Problem-Solving, Critical Thinking
Tuition & Costs
- In-State Tuition: $33,225/year
- Out-of-State Tuition: $33,225/year
- Additional Cost Information:
Students should be aware of potential additional costs:
Extended Enrollment: Students requiring more terms than outlined in their enrollment agreement to complete technical courses will be subject to additional fees and possible tuition increases.
Accelerated Pace: Students choosing to complete the technical portion of their degree faster than prescribed will be assessed additional tuition.
Prerequisite Courses: Students needing prerequisite courses will incur extra tuition and fees beyond those in their enrollment agreement.
Elective Courses: Electing to take courses outside the prescribed curriculum will result in additional tuition and fees.
Sample Courses
Revit for Construction Managers, Specifications & Quality Control, Ethics & the Construction Industry, Construction Contracts & Specifications, Structural Wood Design...
Why Get an Online Construction Management Degree in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island’s construction management job market is poised for steady expansion, with state-specific opportunities aligning closely with emerging infrastructure priorities. According to the Rhode Island Department of Labor & Training, overall employment in the state is projected to grow 6.2% by 2032, outpacing national trends in sectors like renewable energy and coastal resilience—areas where construction managers play pivotal roles. This growth is fueled by projects such as offshore wind farm installations, bridge replacements under the Rhode Island Bridge Replacement Program, and adaptive reuse of historic buildings in Providence’s Innovation District. Unlike generic national projections, Rhode Island’s compact geography allows you to engage with high-impact projects early in your career, often within a short commute.
An online construction management degree positions you to capitalize on these regional trends through coursework addressing local challenges, like navigating coastal building codes or integrating modular construction techniques for urban housing. Programs like those at New England Institute of Technology emphasize Rhode Island’s unique regulatory environment, ensuring you graduate with skills directly applicable to employers like A/Z Corporation or GreenBuild RI. Reddit discussions in construction career forums highlight that while field experience remains valuable, a degree accelerates progression into office-based roles like project engineer or assistant PM—positions critical for managing the state’s complex public-private partnerships.
With Rhode Island’s construction sector prioritizing certifications like LEED and CMAA, online programs often bundle exam prep into their curricula, saving you time post-graduation. Local professional networks, including Associated Builders and Contractors Rhode Island, frequently partner with universities to offer virtual career fairs, connecting you directly with firms overseeing Quonset’s industrial expansions or Newport’s tourism infrastructure upgrades. As aging infrastructure demands $2.1 billion in statewide upgrades through 2030, your ability to manage budgets for resilience-focused projects will position you as a strategic asset.
Rhode Island’s blend of historic preservation and cutting-edge green construction creates a niche for managers who balance technical precision with community engagement—a skill set honed through online programs’ collaborative projects. By aligning your education with the state’s infrastructure calendar, you’ll enter a job market where 72% of firms report difficulty filling management roles, according to local industry surveys. Start building your expertise now to lead the projects reshaping Rhode Island’s coastlines, cities, and energy grids—all while maintaining the flexibility to work full-time in the industry you aim to advance.
Where Can You Work After Graduating?
Rhode Island offers diverse opportunities for construction management graduates, with employers ranging from established firms to growing regional players. Gilbane Building Company, frequently featured in local construction industry reports, stands out for its commercial and institutional projects across the state. They often hire project managers and site supervisors, emphasizing collaborative team structures and professional development programs that support certifications like LEED or PMP. Dimeo Construction, another prominent name from the same source, specializes in healthcare and education facilities, offering roles in cost estimation and sustainability-focused project management. Their Providence-based teams work on adaptive reuse projects that blend historical preservation with modern construction techniques.
Recent job postings highlight Shawmut Design and Construction’s demand for construction managers with expertise in hospitality and retail sectors. They provide hybrid work options and prioritize safety training programs, particularly for projects in Providence’s revitalized downtown area. A/Z Corporation, active in advanced manufacturing and pharmaceutical facility construction, recruits graduates familiar with BIM software and lean construction principles. Their North Kingstown projects often involve partnerships with defense contractors and renewable energy firms.
Healthcare systems like Lifespan regularly list facilities management roles through construction job boards, seeking professionals who can oversee hospital renovations and infrastructure upgrades. These positions typically include opportunities to work with cross-functional teams on compliance-driven projects. Smaller firms like Calsolaro, focused on residential and light commercial builds, provide hands-on experience in client relations and subcontractor coordination, often appealing to those preferring smaller team environments.
Rhode Island’s construction hubs cluster around Providence’s mixed-use developments and Quonset’s industrial parks, with growing demand in coastal resilience projects. Startups like GreenBuild RI, specializing in energy-efficient retrofits, increasingly seek managers with dual expertise in traditional methods and emerging green technologies.
To maximize opportunities, connect with local chapters of Associated Builders and Contractors Rhode Island or attend industry mixers hosted by Build Rhode Island. Regularly check the Rhode Island Department of Labor’s construction sector updates for public infrastructure roles. Many employers value field experience, so consider internships or part-time roles with regional subcontractors during your job search.
What Can You Earn as a Construction Manager in Rhode Island?
If you’re considering a career as a construction manager in Rhode Island, you’ll find salaries vary based on experience and location. ZipRecruiter’s March 2025 data shows the state’s average hourly wage is $44.81, translating to roughly $93,199 annually. This baseline reflects mid-career professionals with 3-7 years of experience, though entry-level roles often start lower. For example, new managers with 0-2 years might earn closer to $65,000-$80,000, based on industry benchmarks. In Providence, salaries trend higher: Salary.com’s March 2025 report notes an average annual pay of $146,319 for construction managers, with senior roles (8+ years) reaching $160,000 or more. Urban projects and higher living costs in cities like Providence often push salaries above rural averages.
Your earning potential also depends on specialization. While construction managers in Rhode Island earn slightly above the national median ($98,890 as of 2025), those with certifications like PMP or CMAA can command 10-15% premiums. Indeed’s project manager salary data highlights a related role’s average of $96,503 statewide, suggesting cross-industry demand for management skills. Focus areas like green building or infrastructure development could further boost your income, especially with Rhode Island’s growing emphasis on sustainable construction.
Future salary growth looks stable, driven by ongoing infrastructure upgrades and housing demands. Entry-level professionals can expect gradual increases as they gain certifications or pivot into high-demand sectors like renewable energy projects. While exact projections vary, Rhode Island’s construction sector is projected to grow 5-7% over the next decade, aligning with national trends. Staying updated on local regulations and technology—like BIM software—can help you stay competitive in this market.
FAQs About Online Construction Management Degree Programs in Rhode Island
Common Questions About Construction Management Degrees
Q: How long does it take to finish an online construction management degree? A: Most online bachelor's programs take 3-5 years, depending on your pace and prior credits. At New England Institute of Technology, the standard timeline can extend if you need prerequisite courses or choose an accelerated schedule, which may involve extra fees. Full-time students often complete in four years.
Q: Are online degrees respected by Rhode Island employers? A: Yes, accredited online degrees are widely accepted. Rhode Island employers like Gilbane and Dimeo value programs from institutions such as New England Institute of Technology, which holds NECHE accreditation. This aligns with requirements for construction management roles in the state.
Q: What accreditation should I look for in a program? A: Prioritize regional accreditation like the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which ensures quality standards. New England Institute of Technology’s program holds this accreditation, making credits more transferable and degrees recognized by employers.
Q: Can I transfer credits from another school? A: Many programs accept transfer credits, but policies vary. Contact admissions advisors at your chosen school—like New England Institute of Technology—to review course equivalencies. Note that prerequisite requirements might affect how many credits apply toward your degree.
Q: What hands-on experience is included in online programs? A: Online programs often incorporate virtual labs, project simulations, and local internships. For example, coursework might involve creating cost estimates for Rhode Island-specific projects or using software to manage timelines for coastal construction scenarios.
Q: How do online classes fit with a full-time job? A: Online courses typically offer asynchronous access to materials and evening live sessions. You can adjust your course load each term, though accelerating completion at schools like New England Institute of Technology may require extra tuition fees.
Q: What support services do online students receive? A: Most programs provide academic advising, 24/7 tech help, and career services. New England Institute of Technology connects online students with local industry networks for internships and job placements in Rhode Island’s construction sector.
Q: Are scholarships available for Rhode Island residents? A: Some schools offer scholarships for state residents, and external options exist through organizations like Associated Builders and Contractors Rhode Island. Check with your program’s financial aid office and explore state workforce development grants.