Top Construction Management Degree Programs In South Dakota
South Dakota’s construction industry is booming, with infrastructure projects and commercial developments reshaping communities across the state—and you could be at the center of it. As demand grows for skilled professionals who can oversee budgets, timelines, and teams, construction management offers a career path where your decisions directly shape skylines and local economies. With median salaries for construction managers in the region reaching $85,000 annually and job growth projected at 8% through 2032, this field rewards expertise with stability and competitive pay. Major employers like regional contractors, engineering firms, and state agencies consistently seek candidates who combine technical knowledge with leadership skills.
An online construction management degree lets you build that expertise without pausing your current job or relocating. Programs blend project planning, cost estimation, and sustainable practices with real-world applications—skills you can immediately use to bid on projects or streamline operations at your workplace. National American University offers one example of a curriculum. You’ll gain credentials that qualify you for roles like project manager, estimator, or site supervisor while maintaining the flexibility to balance work and study.
The shift toward digital tools in construction—from BIM software to cloud-based collaboration—means online learning mirrors how modern teams operate. By mastering these technologies during your studies, you’ll position yourself as a forward-thinking candidate for employers driving South Dakota’s infrastructure growth. Whether you’re coordinating wind farm installations or hospital expansions, your ability to lead projects efficiently becomes your greatest asset. Explore how advancing your education now can open doors to shaping the state’s physical and economic landscape for years to come.
Best Online Construction Management Degree Programs in South Dakota
Below are the top-ranked Online Construction Management programs in South Dakota, ranked according to quality, accreditation, cost, and other important factors.
National American University
Bachelor of Science in Construction Management
Key Highlights
- The program prepares students to take the LEED Green Associate (GA) exam.
- Skills gained include construction project management, site engineering, and cost estimation.
- The curriculum includes coursework in construction materials and methods, building codes, and construction estimating.
- Students will learn to apply construction management technologies.
- Graduates may pursue roles such as construction manager, site engineer, and cost estimator.
- The program is aligned with the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).
- The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Description
The online Bachelor of Science in Construction Management program at National American University is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively supervise, manage, and monitor construction projects. The curriculum covers key aspects such as planning, controlling, and scheduling, and prepares students to take the LEED Green Associate (GA) exam. Students will gain insights into residential and commercial construction projects and learn to apply current construction management technologies, demonstrate leadership skills, and employ effective communication strategies.
Program Features
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Transfer Credits: Accepted
Skills You'll Gain
Construction project management, Site engineering, Cost estimation, Leadership, Communication, Ethical decision-making, Application of construction management technologies
Tuition & Costs
- In-State Tuition: $15,390/year
- Out-of-State Tuition: $15,390/year
- Additional Cost Information:Learn more about our undergraduate tuition schedule.
Contact Information
- National American University
- 800-209-0182
Sample Courses
CM1100 – Introduction to Construction Management, CM2100 – Construction Materials and Methods I, CM2200 – Construction Materials and Methods II, CM2300 – Construction Documents and Graphics, CM2400 – Building Codes and Inspection...
Why South Dakota is Ideal for Online Construction Management Studies
South Dakota’s online construction management programs position you at the intersection of education and explosive industry demand, with projections showing a 30% job growth rate for construction managers through 2030—nearly four times faster than the national average of 8% South Dakota Occupational Employment Projections. This surge reflects the state’s focus on infrastructure modernization, renewable energy expansion, and workforce housing—sectors where you’ll find employers actively seeking graduates skilled in commercial, residential, and heavy-highway-utilities project management BUILDSOUTHDAKOTA. Online programs here align with these priorities, offering coursework in sustainable practices and BIM software that mirror the tools used by regional contractors managing wind farm installations or interstate upgrades.
Studying locally gives you access to employers driving this growth, with Sioux Falls and Rapid City emerging as hubs for healthcare campus expansions and federal infrastructure projects. The state’s tight-knit industry network—including groups like the Associated General Contractors of South Dakota—creates opportunities to connect with mentors and hiring managers early in your program. Graduates often report accelerated career advancement, with one Reddit user noting that while a degree might not be mandatory for entry-level roles, it “likely helped me elevate quicker” into leadership positions Reddit thread. This advantage matters in a market where specialized skills like LEED certification or federal contract compliance can differentiate you for high-profile projects.
With South Dakota’s construction sector prioritizing tech-driven solutions, online learning ensures you’re fluent in cloud collaboration platforms and drone surveying before stepping onto a job site. As the state invests $2 billion in highway improvements and renewable energy grids over the next decade, your ability to manage budgets and timelines for these initiatives becomes a career accelerator.
Start building your expertise now to meet this demand—South Dakota’s growth isn’t just about jobs, but about shaping the projects that will define the region’s economy for decades.
Where to Work After Graduating in South Dakota
South Dakota offers diverse opportunities for construction management graduates, with employers ranging from established commercial builders to residential specialists. Riddle’s Group, highlighted in Indeed’s construction manager job listings, frequently hires project managers and superintendents in Rapid City. Their focus on retail and commercial projects provides experience in managing teams and timelines for mid-sized developments. Hills View Homes, based in Spearfish, appears in the same listings and recruits sales representatives to connect clients with custom home builds, ideal if you prefer client-facing roles in residential construction. Both companies emphasize hands-on involvement, with Riddle’s offering site-based leadership roles and Hills View prioritizing local client relationships.
For large-scale commercial projects, Henry Carlson Construction stands out as a key employer mentioned by Glassdoor’s top construction companies list. They handle everything from pre-construction planning to post-construction support, giving you exposure to complex projects like healthcare facilities or educational campuses. Their Sioux Falls and Rapid City offices often seek managers with skills in budget oversight and subcontractor coordination, and their structured career paths appeal to those aiming for long-term growth.
ZipRecruiter’s data shows over 360 construction manager roles statewide, with salaries ranging from $71,000 to $120,000 annually. Regional contractors like Scull Construction Service in Sioux Falls and Journey Group in Rapid City frequently post openings for site supervisors and estimators. These firms value certifications like OSHA 30 or PMP and often provide training programs for recent graduates. Scull, for example, emphasizes sustainable building practices, while Journey Group specializes in industrial projects, offering niche experience in sectors like energy or manufacturing.
Rapid City and Sioux Falls serve as primary hubs, with steady demand for managers in healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Smaller towns like Spearfish or Aberdeen have growing residential markets, ideal if you prefer close-knit community projects. Networking through groups like the Associated General Contractors of South Dakota or attending Sioux Empire Home Show events can connect you with local employers. Regularly checking regional job boards and highlighting internships or project management coursework in applications improves visibility in this relationship-driven market.
What Can You Earn as a Construction Manager in South Dakota?
Construction managers in South Dakota can expect competitive earnings that reflect experience levels and local industry demands. Recent data shows average annual salaries ranging from $95,168 to $99,217 across major job platforms. Indeed’s 2024 survey reports an average of $99,217 per year, with entry-level roles typically starting near $74,620 based on CareerExplorer’s breakdown. These figures account for professionals managing smaller residential projects or assisting senior teams. Mid-career positions (3-7 years) often reach $85,000 to $105,000 annually, influenced by project complexity and certifications like the Certified Construction Manager credential. Senior roles (8+ years) commanding large-scale commercial or infrastructure projects can earn up to $130,750, particularly in sectors like healthcare or renewable energy development.
South Dakota’s construction management salaries sit slightly below the national average of $107,000, but lower living costs offset this difference. ZipRecruiter’s March 2025 data highlights an hourly rate of $45.75, translating to $95,168 annually for full-time work. This variation between sources reflects differences in sample sizes and employer reporting methods. Your earning potential increases significantly with specialized skills—LEED accreditation for sustainable building projects adds 10-15% to base pay, while PMP certification for advanced project management often correlates with salaries above $110,000. Geographic location within the state also plays a role: managers in Rapid City or Sioux Falls frequently earn 8-12% more than rural counterparts due to higher demand for commercial development expertise.
Future salary growth looks steady as South Dakota invests in infrastructure upgrades and workforce housing. The aging Highway System Improvement Program and expanding renewable energy installations are creating sustained demand for experienced managers. With 5-7 years of strategic career moves—such as transitioning from residential to industrial projects or gaining federal contract compliance training—you could reach the top 10% of earners surpassing $130,000 annually. Staying updated on construction technologies like BIM software or drone surveying also positions you for premium roles in a state prioritizing modernized building practices.
FAQs About Online Construction Management Degree Programs in South Dakota
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are online construction management degrees respected by employers in South Dakota? A: Yes, employers typically respect accredited online degrees. Programs like National American University’s Bachelor of Science in Construction Management hold Higher Learning Commission accreditation, meeting regional standards. The SD Board of Technical Professions emphasizes proper education for licensure, making accredited degrees critical for roles requiring certification.
Q: What accreditation should I look for in a program? A: Prioritize regional accreditation like the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), which National American University holds. This ensures your degree meets quality standards recognized by employers and licensing boards. Always verify accreditation status directly through the program’s website.
Q: How long does it typically take to complete an online bachelor's degree? A: Most online bachelor’s programs take 4 years of full-time study. Some schools offer accelerated tracks or credit for prior experience, which could shorten completion time. Check individual program requirements for details.
Q: Can I work while studying online? A: Yes—online programs are designed for flexibility. Many students balance coursework with full-time jobs, applying skills directly to their current roles. Time management is key, but assignments typically allow scheduling around work hours.
Q: What software skills do these programs usually teach? A: Programs often cover BIM software, project management tools (like Microsoft Project), and cost estimation systems. You’ll also learn blueprint reading and scheduling techniques, mirroring software used by contractors statewide.
Q: Are internships required for graduation? A: Requirements vary by program. Some include internships or capstone projects with local employers, while others focus on coursework. Contact your school’s admissions team to confirm their policy.
Q: Do South Dakota programs offer career placement support? A: Many do—National American University and similar schools provide job boards, resume reviews, and networking opportunities. Local industry groups like the Associated General Contractors of South Dakota also host hiring events.
Q: How do online classes handle hands-on construction training? A: Programs use virtual simulations, video demonstrations, and partnerships with local employers for site visits. Some require you to complete hands-on tasks at nearby job sites under professional supervision.