Construction Administration
The Master of Science in Construction Administration is a one and a half year full time program designed for students seeking advanced expertise in project management, construction operations, and organizational leadership within the built environment. The curriculum integrates construction planning, cost control, risk management, contract administration, and applied research to provide a comprehensive understanding of how to efficiently lead construction projects and ensure successful project delivery. Through this program, students develop project management skills, construction administration expertise, risk assessment competencies, and budgeting and scheduling abilities, preparing them to manage complex projects in commercial, residential, and infrastructure sectors.
This on campus program offers a practical, interactive learning environment where lectures, workshops, case studies, and applied projects allow students to apply management and construction principles in real world scenarios. Students refine project scheduling and cost estimation, contract and procurement management, risk mitigation strategies, and construction quality control through collaborative exercises and independent research projects. Graduates are prepared to work in construction management firms, engineering consultancies, real estate development companies, and infrastructure organizations, equipping them to lead teams, optimize project workflows, ensure regulatory compliance, and deliver high quality projects on time and within budget.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Construction Administration
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 1,5 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 June 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Project Management
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Construction Administration
• Principles of Construction Management
• Project Planning and Scheduling
• Construction Cost Estimation
• Research Methods in Construction Administration
Semester 2 – Advanced Project Management
• Risk Management and Mitigation
• Contract Administration and Legal Aspects
• Seminar in Construction Leadership
• Applied Project in Construction Management
Semester 3 – Capstone and Applied Practice
• Capstone Project in Construction Administration
• Construction Operations and Quality Control
• Leadership and Organizational Strategy
• Elective Modules in Infrastructure, Sustainability, or Project Finance
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in construction management, project leadership, infrastructure development, and consultancy. Career paths include construction project manager, site operations manager, contract administrator, risk management consultant, and infrastructure planner. Graduates are equipped to oversee complex construction projects, coordinate multidisciplinary teams, manage budgets and timelines, and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations. The program also prepares learners for leadership and advisory roles in project development teams, construction consultancies, and infrastructure organizations, enabling them to implement efficient project strategies, enhance operational performance, and deliver sustainable construction solutions.
Why Choose This Program
Students choose this program because it combines construction project management, administrative leadership, risk and cost management, and applied research skills within a one and a half year intensive framework. The curriculum emphasizes both practical application and strategic thinking, allowing learners to acquire the skills necessary to lead construction projects, optimize organizational performance, and deliver high quality results. Graduates gain the knowledge, confidence, and competencies to pursue careers in project management, construction administration, infrastructure development, and consulting while contributing meaningfully to efficient, sustainable, and innovative practices in the construction industry.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
