Columbia University School of Professional Studies (SPS) is proud to announce the transformation of its long-established Master of Science in Construction Administration into the broader Master of Science in Project Management. This redesign reflects the growing demand for adaptable, cross-industry project leaders, extending the program’s scope and curriculum while preserving its strong foundation in the construction discipline.
Beginning in fall 2026, industry professionals can take the next step in their careers with a customizable master’s degree in project management. Four concentrations will be available within the degree: Sports Management, Sustainability Management, Technology Management, and Construction. Applications for enrollment open in August of this year.
“We are transforming Columbia’s M.S. in Construction Administration and expanding its rigorous, technical, and managerial foundation to serve a more expansive, interdisciplinary workforce,” said Troy J. Eggers, dean of Columbia University School of Professional Studies. “The M.S. in Project Management is designed to produce adaptable, digitally literate, and strategically minded project leaders, equipped to deliver results across a wide range of industries and evolving global challenges.”
The reimagined Construction concentration also benefits from the resources and expertise of Columbia Engineering’s Department of Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics, which will jointly administer the program.
“Our partnership with the School of Professional Studies on the concentration in Construction brings Columbia Engineering’s technical excellence to bear on real-world challenges,” said Columbia Engineering Dean Shih-Fu Chang. “By integrating SPS’s industry-focused curriculum with our engineering expertise, we’re preparing students for complex construction projects that will define the built environment of the future.”
Offered in both full-time and part-time formats, the M.S. in Project Management program equips students with the knowledge, tools, and management strategies necessary to manage complex initiatives across various industries, including construction, sports, sustainability, and technology. As nearly every sector increasingly relies on professionals who can deliver strategic outcomes, lead cross-functional teams, and navigate digital transformation, the need for adaptable, agile project leaders has never been greater.
“This program is tailored for professionals who are looking to formalize their leadership experience and gain a competitive edge in the job market,” says Dr. Erik T. Nelson, senior associate dean of Academic Affairs at Columbia University School of Professional Studies. “In today’s project-driven economy, effective project execution is crucial to organizational success.”
“The world urgently needs project management professionals with deep expertise in substantive areas of practice to tackle the profound challenges we’ve experienced in the last decade,” says Dr. Steven Cohen, senior vice dean and director of the M.S. in Sustainability Management, Columbia University School of Professional Studies. “The Sustainability Management focus, one of four possible areas of concentration, will equip students with ways to address sustainability challenges caused by our need to grow the world economy while preserving our planet.”
Students can opt for the general Project Management program, which offers maximum flexibility through a wide range of elective options tailored to individual interests and career goals. Alternatively, students may choose from one of the four specialized concentrations:
- Construction – Built on Columbia’s legacy in construction expertise and innovation.
- Sports Management – Preparing leaders in the global sports industry.
- Sustainability Management – Driving sustainable innovation across organizations and ecosystems.
- Technology Management – For professionals navigating digital-first and agile environments.
In particular, the Construction concentration will draw on expert faculty from Columbia Engineering’s Department of Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics. This transformation preserves the Construction Administration program’s legacy while addressing the expanding role of project management across sectors. All concentrations leverage advanced digital technologies and AI-informed approaches to effectively prepare students for the complexities of contemporary, technology-enhanced project environments.
The M.S. in Project Management program is designed to address the rapidly growing demand for skilled project leaders across industries. In today’s project-driven economy, organizations are under constant pressure to innovate, manage change, and deliver complex initiatives on time and within budget. This demand has led to a sharp increase in the need for professionals with technical project management skills and leadership, communication, and strategic thinking capabilities to drive results in dynamic environments.
The program will be led by Evangelia Ieronymaki, Ph.D., PE, M.ASCE, who currently serves as incoming program director of the M.S. in Construction Administration and will assume the additional role of program director for the M.S. in Project Management beginning in September 2026. She is also a senior lecturer in discipline in the Construction Administration program.
A professional civil engineer with over 15 years of academic and industry experience, Dr. Ieronymaki holds both S.M. and Ph.D. degrees in civil engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and has played a key role in designing, analyzing, and delivering major infrastructure projects worldwide. Dr. Ieronymaki’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the program, as her academic leadership and professional expertise will guide its evolution and support its mission to prepare students for project leadership across industries.
In parallel with her academic career, Dr. Ieronymaki is a freelance consultant, collaborating with some of the most prominent engineering firms in the industry. She has contributed to complex engineering projects, including deep excavations, retaining walls, and foundation designs for high-rise buildings. Notable contributions include her work on the Crossrail tunnels in London and due diligence evaluations for multimillion-euro developments.
Dr. Ieronymaki is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), the Deep Foundations Institute (DFI), and the American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA), where she has been involved in technical committees and served as an academic advisor. Her leadership in the field has been recognized with several awards, including the Women in Deep Foundations Award. She has also been a frequent speaker at international conferences. Her dedication to advancing geotechnical engineering is reflected in her research, teaching, and mentoring of the next generation of engineers.
“Today’s projects are faster, smarter, and more interconnected than ever; they demand leaders who can drive change, not just manage it,” says Dr. Ieronymaki. “This program empowers professionals to step ahead to the transformation and lead high-stakes projects with confidence and clarity.”
The program expansion comes at a critical moment. According to the Project Management Institute (PMI), nearly 22 million new project-oriented roles will be needed globally by 2027, a 33% increase across industries over a 10-year period.
Applications for fall 2026 enrollment open in August 2025. To learn more, visit the M.S. in Project Management site.
About the Columbia School of Professional Studies
As one of the 17 prestigious schools affiliated with Columbia University, the School of Professional Studies (SPS) is committed to supporting a diverse community of faculty, students, and staff while expanding the reach and impact of an Ivy League education so that more students can excel in their careers. Online and around the world, SPS brings together the best and brightest minds to deliver personal, practical, and purposeful educational experiences. Since 2002, the School of Professional Studies and its forebears have administered and developed innovative programs to fulfill a diverse array of inquisitive students’ needs and desires. Whether pursuing one of 18 master’s degrees, returning for post-baccalaureate credentials, or visiting from another university to accelerate undergraduate or graduate studies, every student at the School of Professional Studies benefits from intentionally designed resources and services that make SPS the place to study, no matter their path.
