Mississippi State University Launches Graduate Degree in Construction Management

News Summary

Mississippi State University is introducing the first graduate degree in construction management in Mississippi. This Master of Science in Construction program, approved by the Board of Trustees, aims to equip graduates with essential skills for leadership roles in the growing construction industry. Offering both research-focused and professional tracks, the curriculum emphasizes technical expertise and management skills, developed in collaboration with industry professionals. Students can apply until August 1 for the fall semester, ensuring a pathway for aspiring leaders in construction.

Mississippi State University Launches First Graduate Degree in Construction Management

Mississippi State University (MSU) is set to offer the state’s inaugural Master of Science in Construction Management degree, starting next month. This groundbreaking program received approval from the Board of Trustees for the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning, marking a significant milestone in higher education for construction professionals in Mississippi. Applications are open until August 1 for those looking to enroll in the upcoming fall semester.

Expanding Opportunities in the Construction Sector

The new graduate program is designed to equip graduates with the necessary skills for leadership roles within the rapidly growing construction industry. With construction being a vital sector in the economy, the program aims to address the increasing demand for skilled professionals equipped to manage complex construction projects.

Dean of the College of Architecture, Art and Design, Angi Elsea Bourgeois, emphasizes the program’s potential impact on expanding opportunities for students entering the field. The construction industry requires individuals with advanced knowledge and skills to meet modern challenges, and this program intends to fulfill that need.

Tracks to Suit Every Professional

The Master of Science in Construction Management will feature two distinct tracks: a research-focused track and a professional track tailored for practitioners in architecture, construction, and engineering. This dual approach allows students to choose a pathway that best fits their career goals and aspirations within the industry.

Coursework will be available in flexible formats, allowing students to complete their studies online or attend in-person classes at the Starkville campus. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for working professionals who might have existing commitments.

Collaboration with Industry Professionals

The curriculum has been meticulously developed through collaboration with seasoned construction professionals, MSU alumni, and the Department of Building Science’s Industry Advisory Board. The involvement of industry experts ensures that the program remains relevant and up-to-date with current trends and technologies in the construction field.

The program will also emphasize the latest in project management trends and real-world industry data, which are critical components in training the next generation of construction leaders.

An Interdisciplinary Approach

In addition to substantial technical knowledge, the program will focus on enhancing students’ managerial skills, providing a comprehensive education that caters to a multitude of roles within the construction sector. The interdisciplinary nature of the curriculum ensures that graduates are well-prepared to tackle various challenges and excel in today’s competitive job market.

Saeed Rokooei, an Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director, notes that the collaboration with industry professionals is essential for providing a degree that meets the needs of employers in the construction industry. This alignment with industry demands not only enhances students’ learning experiences but also increases their value as future employees.

How to Apply

Interested applicants can find detailed information regarding application procedures, program specifics, and deadlines on the Mississippi State University website. With the deadline for applications approaching, prospective students are encouraged to act swiftly to secure their place in this pioneering program.

As the construction industry continues to evolve, the launch of this graduate program at MSU signifies a commitment to education that adapts to the needs of the workforce, paving the way for future leaders in construction management.

This new initiative is expected to have a lasting impact on the state’s educational landscape and the overall construction landscape in Mississippi.

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Additional Resources

• Magnolia Tribune: Mississippi State to Offer First of Its Kind Construction Management Graduate Degree
• WJTV: Mississippi State Launches Graduate Construction Degree Program
• WXXV: State’s Only Graduate Construction Degree Program to Launch at MSU
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Construction Management
• Google Search: Graduate Construction Degree Programs