On-campus instruction; some business courses available online as pre-approved electives
Fall and spring intake
3–4 terms to complete
Capstone Project
International students are responsible for ensuring they have read and understand the University’s student visa application eligibility and requirements. Please note that it is not permissible to enroll while in B-1/B-2 status. In addition, if studying on a student visa, you must enroll full-time (12 credits per term) and study on campus.
The curriculum focuses on the commercial and residential building sectors but covers processes of construction administration that are applicable to any kind of project – from stadiums and parks, to railroad terminals and airports, to bridges and tunnels. The program's twelve courses focus on the fundamentals of construction administration: cost estimating and project financing, techniques, human and material resources, construction law, conflict resolution, project management, and environmental safety and conservation.
Program Structure
One (1) ENGINEERING CORE (3 points/credits).
Two (2) short-core courses (1.5 points/credits each = 3 points/credits)
Eight (8) full-core courses (3 points/credits each = 24 points/credits)
Electives (short and/or full) (6 points/credits)
Non-core electives may be chosen from courses offered through this program or, with the permission of the program director, from those offered through other schools or departments of the University.
In order to receive the M.S. degree, full-time students must complete the degree requirements within two years (4 terms excluding summer) with an overall grade point average of 3.0 (B) or better. The recommended timeframe for completion is one year.
Time Commitment
The M.S. in Construction Administration is challenging and requires a significant commitment of time and energy. Most classes are scheduled in the evening and are two to three hours each. Students should plan on allocating a minimum of one to two hours of homework for each hour spent in class. Capstone Project classes may require students to spend time at actual construction sites during the day and/or weekend.
Notes
Short-Core: A short-core course is a 1.5-point (credit) course. Students typically take two short-core courses back-to-back; the first generally spans the first half of the semester and the other spans the second half of the semester.
Full-Core: A full-core course is a required, 3-point (credit) course that spans the entire semester.
Short-Elective: A short-elective is a 1.5-credit (credit) course that students select. Students typically take two short-core electives back-to-back; the first generally spans the first half of the semester and the other spans the second half of the semester.
Elective-Full: An elective-full is a 3-credit (credit) course that students select. Elective-full courses span the entire semester.
For Students Enrolled Prior to Spring 2020
Continuing students who matriculated prior to spring 2020 should read the details of their curriculum here.
New Program Curriculum
Short-Core
This course is designed to provide students with introductory knowledge and basic skills they will need to understand and apply as they progress through the program. Students receive an overview of key topics that will be covered in greater detail through core courses and electives during subsequent terms. Each class session provides a primer on a specific area of vital importance, including construction techniques, legal issues, contracts, blueprint reading, scheduling, sustainability, claims and more. Upon completion students will be familiar with basic concepts, terminology and procedures associated with the industry, and well prepared to study these subjects in greater depth.
[a]
Course Number
CNAD PS5105
Format
In Person
Points
1.5
This course will familiarize each student with the knowledge that is required to effectively utilize the contract as a tool to manage a construction project. Through a series of lectures, different topics as they relate to contract management and administration will be discussed each week. The focus of the course will be understanding key contract terms and how to apply them when managing an active construction project. Additionally, the course will focus on understanding how to manage claims and disputes, concentrating on claims related to schedule delay and productivity losses.
Course Number
CNAD5150
Format
In Person
Points
1.5
Full-Core
Provides a foundation on the economic aspects of the construction business, including accounting, finance, and taxation. Among the topics covered are accounting and bookkeeping, managerial accounting, internal controls, financial analysis and presentation, contractor surety and lending, tax issues, and fraud. Guest lecturers are featured for certain topics.
Course Number
CNAD PS5101
Format
In Person
Points
3
Covers the basics of estimating construction project costs. The first part of the course focuses on the quantitative aspect of estimating, including quantity take-offs, pricing, overhead costs, and profit. The components required for making successful bids are addressed and analyzed. The second part of the course concentrates on estimating in such areas as procurement, cost control, and change orders during the actual construction process.
Course Number
CNAD PS5100
Format
In Person
Points
3
This elective course introduces students to project and construction management and explores industry and construction projects from their place in the larger economy to execution at the project level. Classwork will focus on defining projects and breaking down their critical components within the context of current and evolving markets and regulatory environments. Students will learn the various competencies required to successfully navigate a construction project from concept to commissioning. Assignments and activities include simulation, case study discussions, individual and group projects, and a multi-phase final group project encompassing the concepts, theories, tools, and skills acquired during the course.
Course Number
CNAD PS5139
Format
In Person
Points
3
This course addresses the vital issue of construction site safety from a management perspective. Students gain insight into the challenges of accident prevention and techniques for managing safe and secure building projects. Includes a history of construction safety, accident causation theory, hazard control procedures, insurance and risk management, behavior-based safety initiatives, occupational safety and health management systems in construction firms, and the deployment of technologies such as three- and four-dimensional modeling and PDA-based inspection.
Course Number
CNAD PS5102
Format
In Person
Points
3
Provides in-depth analysis and discussion on all the relevant case law and statutory information pertaining to New York construction and engineering law along with practical insights, warnings, and advice culled from the instructing team’s years of experience. The major emphasis is on the principal contractual relationships (owner-contractor, owner-architect/engineer, contractor-subcontractor, and architect/engineer-consultant), and the problems that most commonly arise out of these relationships. Topics covered include licensing issues, contract issues, managing construction projects, design through build, bidding and procurement rules, insurance and surety bonds, site safety, mechanics’ liens, claims, alternative dispute resolution, and damages. Fall term only.
Course Number
CNAD PS5103
Format
In Person
Points
3
The Construction Administration Capstone Project course introduces the methods and tools necessary to analyze a set of plans and specifications for an active New York City building project (or projects) and includes a comprehensive review and analysis of documentation requirements for the selected project(s). Students are paired with appropriate industry managers and work in small teams, utilizing knowledge acquired from their core courses to develop and draft a comprehensive, professional level project manual. Review of contract plans and documents as well as site visits and interaction with actual project team members are required. To be taken during the final term of study.
Course Number
CNAD PS5500
Format
In Person
Points
3
A comprehensive introduction to the principles, methods and tools required for the development and implementation of scheduling in the construction industry. Topics covered include: the crucial role of the scheduling development plans, budgeting and its impact on project timelines, identification and analysis of critical paths (CPM), resource and cost loading, schedule updating, and schedule management. Coursework is integrated with hands‐on utilization of Oracle Primavera P3 and P6 scheduling and Microsoft Project 2007 software. Students may need to bring their own laptops/notebooks for some class sessions. Guest lecturers may be featured for certain topics.
OBJECTIVE: This course should prepare the student to prepare a CPM schedule, calculate the schedule manually or by use of computer software, evaluate the output of such software, and present such analysis both to field personnel for implementation and to upper management for overview.
Course Number
CNAD PS5120
Format
In Person
Points
3
This course provides students with a solid hands-on foundation in BIM (Building Information Modeling) and other technologies that are revolutionizing the way 21st century construction projects are delivered. Starting from the Owner’s perspective, the class sessions will explore the benefits of BIM tools/methods as used by design teams, construction managers and sub-contractors. Students work with actual industry tools to create BIM Models that extract quantities for estimation purposes, link models to construction schedules (4D simulations), generate clash reports, and effectively communicate 3D site logistics plans. Once a BIM backbone is established, discussions will lead into and highlight: advanced applications, integration opportunities, responsibilities/contractual theories and the introduction of other 3rd Party Software. This course is a recommended companion course to CNAD PS5500, the Capstone Project. Students enrolling in the course are required to have their own notebook PC meeting the noted specifications. (Specs to come).
Course Number
CNAD PS5136
Format
In Person
Points
3
Core Engineering
This course concentrates on the importance of proper means and methods for insuring cost-effective design, construction and maintenance, as well as a safe work environment. The course includes guest speakers from the industry who will discuss various construction methods. Students work in teams on a semester-long case study of a Manhattan construction project, examining field activities, site safety, work progress and quality control.
Course Number
CIEN E4131
Format
In Person
Points
3
Suggested Course Schedule
Recommended Path: Semester 1/Fall
Take four required core courses
This course is designed to provide students with introductory knowledge and basic skills they will need to understand and apply as they progress through the program. Students receive an overview of key topics that will be covered in greater detail through core courses and electives during subsequent terms. Each class session provides a primer on a specific area of vital importance, including construction techniques, legal issues, contracts, blueprint reading, scheduling, sustainability, claims and more. Upon completion students will be familiar with basic concepts, terminology and procedures associated with the industry, and well prepared to study these subjects in greater depth.
[a]
Course Number
CNAD PS5105
Format
In Person
Points
1.5
This course will familiarize each student with the knowledge that is required to effectively utilize the contract as a tool to manage a construction project. Through a series of lectures, different topics as they relate to contract management and administration will be discussed each week. The focus of the course will be understanding key contract terms and how to apply them when managing an active construction project. Additionally, the course will focus on understanding how to manage claims and disputes, concentrating on claims related to schedule delay and productivity losses.
Course Number
CNAD5150
Format
In Person
Points
1.5
Provides a foundation on the economic aspects of the construction business, including accounting, finance, and taxation. Among the topics covered are accounting and bookkeeping, managerial accounting, internal controls, financial analysis and presentation, contractor surety and lending, tax issues, and fraud. Guest lecturers are featured for certain topics.
Course Number
CNAD PS5101
Format
In Person
Points
3
This course addresses the vital issue of construction site safety from a management perspective. Students gain insight into the challenges of accident prevention and techniques for managing safe and secure building projects. Includes a history of construction safety, accident causation theory, hazard control procedures, insurance and risk management, behavior-based safety initiatives, occupational safety and health management systems in construction firms, and the deployment of technologies such as three- and four-dimensional modeling and PDA-based inspection.
Course Number
CNAD PS5102
Format
In Person
Points
3
Select one Engineering CORE Course or ALT Engineering Course (Choose Only 1)
This course introduces students to the principles, methods and tools necessary to manage the design and construction processes. Among the topics examined in detail are: elements of planning, estimating, scheduling, bidding and contractual relationships; valuation of project cash flows; critical path method. The course includes a survey of construction procedures, cost control and effectiveness, and practical techniques for completing capital projects on time and within budget. Spring term only.
Course Number
CIEN E4129
Format
In Person
Points
3
Recommended Path: Semester 2/Spring
Take two required core courses, take an additional core course, take an elective
A comprehensive introduction to the principles, methods and tools required for the development and implementation of scheduling in the construction industry. Topics covered include: the crucial role of the scheduling development plans, budgeting and its impact on project timelines, identification and analysis of critical paths (CPM), resource and cost loading, schedule updating, and schedule management. Coursework is integrated with hands‐on utilization of Oracle Primavera P3 and P6 scheduling and Microsoft Project 2007 software. Students may need to bring their own laptops/notebooks for some class sessions. Guest lecturers may be featured for certain topics.
OBJECTIVE: This course should prepare the student to prepare a CPM schedule, calculate the schedule manually or by use of computer software, evaluate the output of such software, and present such analysis both to field personnel for implementation and to upper management for overview.
[a]
Course Number
CNAD PS5120
Format
In Person
Points
1.5
This course provides students with a solid hands-on foundation in BIM (Building Information Modeling) and other technologies that are revolutionizing the way 21st century construction projects are delivered. Starting from the Owner’s perspective, the class sessions will explore the benefits of BIM tools/methods as used by design teams, construction managers and sub-contractors. Students work with actual industry tools to create BIM Models that extract quantities for estimation purposes, link models to construction schedules (4D simulations), generate clash reports, and effectively communicate 3D site logistics plans. Once a BIM backbone is established, discussions will lead into and highlight: advanced applications, integration opportunities, responsibilities/contractual theories and the introduction of other 3rd Party Software. This course is a recommended companion course to CNAD PS5500, the Capstone Project. Students enrolling in the course are required to have their own notebook PC meeting the noted specifications. (Specs to come).
[b]
Course Number
CNAD PS5136
Format
In Person
Points
1.5
Covers the basics of estimating construction project costs. The first part of the course focuses on the quantitative aspect of estimating, including quantity take-offs, pricing, overhead costs, and profit. The components required for making successful bids are addressed and analyzed. The second part of the course concentrates on estimating in such areas as procurement, cost control, and change orders during the actual construction process.
Course Number
CNAD PS5100
Format
In Person
Points
3
This elective course introduces students to project and construction management and explores industry and construction projects from their place in the larger economy to execution at the project level. Classwork will focus on defining projects and breaking down their critical components within the context of current and evolving markets and regulatory environments. Students will learn the various competencies required to successfully navigate a construction project from concept to commissioning. Assignments and activities include simulation, case study discussions, individual and group projects, and a multi-phase final group project encompassing the concepts, theories, tools, and skills acquired during the course.
Course Number
CNAD PS5139
Format
In Person
Points
3
Select one Engineering CORE Course or ALT Engineering Course (Choose Only 1)
This course concentrates on the importance of proper means and methods for insuring cost-effective design, construction and maintenance, as well as a safe work environment. The course includes guest speakers from the industry who will discuss various construction methods. Students work in teams on a semester-long case study of a Manhattan construction project, examining field activities, site safety, work progress and quality control.
Course Number
CIEN E4131
Format
In Person
Points
3
Recommended Path: Semester 3/Fall
Take one required core course, take two electives, complete the Capstone Project
Short Elective 1.5 cr. [a]
Short Elective 1.5 cr. [b]
Provides in-depth analysis and discussion on all the relevant case law and statutory information pertaining to New York construction and engineering law along with practical insights, warnings, and advice culled from the instructing team’s years of experience. The major emphasis is on the principal contractual relationships (owner-contractor, owner-architect/engineer, contractor-subcontractor, and architect/engineer-consultant), and the problems that most commonly arise out of these relationships. Topics covered include licensing issues, contract issues, managing construction projects, design through build, bidding and procurement rules, insurance and surety bonds, site safety, mechanics’ liens, claims, alternative dispute resolution, and damages. Fall term only.
Course Number
CNAD PS5103
Format
In Person
Points
3
Elective 3.0 cr.
The Construction Administration Capstone Project course introduces the methods and tools necessary to analyze a set of plans and specifications for an active New York City building project (or projects) and includes a comprehensive review and analysis of documentation requirements for the selected project(s). Students are paired with appropriate industry managers and work in small teams, utilizing knowledge acquired from their core courses to develop and draft a comprehensive, professional level project manual. Review of contract plans and documents as well as site visits and interaction with actual project team members are required. To be taken during the final term of study.
Course Number
CNAD PS5500
Format
In Person
Points
3
New Program Electives
Short-Elective E2
This course is an elective, designed to introduce students to the administration and management responsibilities associated with innovative project delivery methods, or procurement methods, including planning, design, construction, and financing, as well as operations and maintenance requirements; for both public sector and private sector participation and collaboration.
This course will focus on defining a continuum of alternative or accelerated procurement processes when compared to traditional design – bid – build processes; for a range of public works asset types. Practices, tools, and methods will be informed by municipal planning and general economic concepts, as well as case studies. Students will develop an understanding of the political forces, principles and contractual structures in innovative project delivery agreements.
Course Number
CNAD PS5155
Format
In Person
Points
1.5
Elective-Full E1
This course focuses on the core operational elements of any building: Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Prevention, increasingly complex systems requiring specialized coordination and planning. Students develop a thorough knowledge of MEP systems, equipment, and construction methods and a broad understanding of how they are implemented within the general construction process. Construction industry and project management principles are brought together in class lectures and demonstrations illustrating the process of taking a project from design to completion relative to its MEP components. Class sessions and assignments include simulations, case study discussions, individual and group exercises, and a final collaborative project drawing upon the tools and techniques taught during the course.
Course Number
CNAD PS5134
Format
In Person
Points
3
Elective-Full E2
This elective course is designed for students looking to gain a stronger understanding of the real estate development and construction process. Students are expected to have some exposure and understanding of construction, finance, and real estate development. Ideally this experience would include having taken introductory courses in real estate or construction finance, in construction methods, and construction process. In addition to, or in substitution of academic coursework, students with a significant professional background in real estate development or construction would also qualify.
The course will explore the real estate development life-cycle from inception to completion. It will focus on detailing the process of analyzing potential acquisitions, entitlement, and permitting through an introduction of market drivers, zoning constraints, building codes, and deal underwriting. The course will introduce the practice of orchestrating the design, pre-development / pre-construction phases and the key components that inform the ultimate commercialization of a project. Students will learn the many disciplines required to make a real estate development project successful.
Course Number
TBD
Format
In Person
Points
3
Elective-Full E3
This course is a seminar-based elective and is designed to expose and engage students on advanced topics in project and enterprise management. There are two instructors (seminar leaders) in addition to guest speakers. The course will focus on critical discussions around advanced topics related to the management of large complex construction programs and projects. By drawing on organizational and management theory as well as case studies the course will going beyond means, methods, tools, and techniques and introduce power, politics, systems-dynamics, and risk management to the practice of project management. Students are expected to have a strong understanding of the fundamental competencies of construction management and are expected to have some experience in leadership roles. Ideally this experience would include having taken advanced or professional training courses in project-based leadership, field operations, planning and supply-chain management, and large scale infrastructure or complex project execution. In addition to, or in substitution of academic coursework, students with a professional background at a management or leadership level could also qualify, as would students that have taken the Construction Project Management (PS5139), holding a PMP, CCM, MRICS, or MCIOB, designation.
Course Number
TBD
Format
In Person
Points
3
Elective-Full E4
Examines the skills and techniques needed for residential renovations. Residential interior renovation is a multibillion-dollar industry, and while many construction professionals enter the field of commercial core and shell work, there are many high-paying positions available in residential construction and renovation. Topics include residential versus commercial clients, budget development, contracting and subcontracting, schedule management, change orders, construction quality, and managing clients' psychological issues.
Course Number
CNAD PS5133
Format
In Person
Points
3
Elective-Full E5
This course is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of key concepts and approaches in green building and sustainability. Specific material will include best practices and trends in design, construction, and business; analysis tools; green building rating systems (with an emphasis on LEED and the Living Building Challenge); the paradigm of sustainable thinking; and applying sustainability in the real (working) world. The course will also provide a preparatory platform for individuals looking to take the LEED Green Associate exam (a precursor to the LEED AP). The course format is designed to support practical understanding, and will include presentations, discussions, guest lecturers, site visits, and a semester long group project to apply the concepts as they are discussed. Students will be provided with resources and tools to facilitate self-directed exploration of the topics, and a forum to develop and communicate findings and considerations.
Course Number
CNAD PS5130
Format
In Person
Points
3
Students may complete an internship as an elective.
The Internship in Industry course offers students the preparation to excel in the marketplace with hands-on experience within an organization. The ideal internship will provide students an opportunity to gain tangible and practical knowledge in their chosen field by taking on a position that is closely aligned with their coursework and professional interests.
This course is structured around the internship experience. In the first assignment, students will author learning objectives to complete in their internship and review these learning objectives with their site supervisor. Students should also expect that after completing this course they will be able to:
Discuss the application of program content and theory in a professional context (LO1)
Define a plan for assessing and building their professional competencies (LO2)
Describe an organization’s culture and assess their cultural “fit” (LO3)
Make recommendations for the types of behaviors, structure, and culture they would want to see in a future workplace setting (LO4)
Before registering for this course, students must secure an appropriate graduate-level internship, complete the Internship Application Form and receive approval from the academic program. It is highly recommended that domestic students complete at least 12 points (credits) prior to completing an internship. International students must have completed at least two terms before completing an internship and apply for & receive CPT approval through the ISSO Office unless they completed their undergraduate degree in the U.S. and enrolled in graduate school immediately after obtaining their undergraduate degree.
To receive approval, the internship must:
Provide an appropriate opportunity for students to apply course concepts
Fit into the planned future program-related career path of the student
Provide a minimum of 210 hours over the semester
Internship dates must coincide with the start and end of the term you are enrolling in the course. You may not complete this course for a previous internship or for an internship you plan to take in the future. The internship and course must be done at the same time.