Michigan Engineering Launches New Online Construction Engineering and Management Master’s Degree

Students will explore fundamental techniques and modern tools to help them manage project schedules and budgets. They will also learn how to implement project plans and designs and lead large-scale construction processes.

Real-World Knowledge From Industry Leaders

This program isn’t just academically rigorous—it’s grounded in practical application. The experienced faculty members at the University of Michigan are committed to teaching skills that can be used on construction projects.

Vineet Kamat, Ph.D., is a professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Michigan. Since joining the university in 2003, he has been teaching courses and conducting research in construction engineering. Dr. Kamat’s main focus is on automation and robotics in construction.

Carol Menassa, Ph.D., is a professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Michigan. She has taught construction engineering and management for 16 years. Dr. Menassa’s research focuses on automation in construction, human-robot interaction, and human-infrastructure systems. 

Dr. Kamat and Dr. Menassa, along with other faculty in the Tishman Construction Management Program, help students learn practical engineering skills. These skills are important in many areas of the construction industry. Through research-based lectures and real-world case studies, students will gain the tools to lead cross-functional construction projects with confidence.

Success in the Construction Industry

In the United States, the construction industry represents 10–12% of the gross domestic product every year and employs millions of workers. Construction ranks among the largest industries in any nation, and companies worldwide need skilled construction engineers and project managers.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the construction manager occupation is projected to grow 9% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the national average. Approximately 45,800 openings for construction managers are projected each year over the next 10 years. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Construction Managers Occupational Outlook, April 2025)

For those with a master’s degree, job prospects for construction management positions increase tremendously. From May 2024 to May 2025, employers posted 7,617 unique job listings that required a graduate education. The median salary was $130,400 for these positions. (Lightcast.io, June 2025) Construction companies are actively searching for professionals with experience in construction project management, subcontracting, procurement, and civil engineering. Analysts project that the skill growth in these areas will increase by 10%-20% in 2026. (Lightcast.io, June 2025) 

The unprecedented demand for highly educated construction engineering and management professionals drives Michigan Engineering to bridge the knowledge gap. This online MEng program will now open doors for more learners to earn their master’s and excel in the construction industry.

Results that Speak for Themselves 

The MEng in Construction Engineering and Management degree, previously an on-campus program, has a longstanding reputation for success. Program alumni were able to learn the essential technologies and methodologies to find employment in the construction industry. Most graduates start as general contractors, field engineers, or assistant project managers. They can then move up to project manager or construction manager roles. These careers are lucrative and in high demand. 

“Our residential graduate program has a 98% placement rate,” says Vineet Kamat, PhD, F.ASCE, NAC, John L. Tishman Family Professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Director of Graduate Degree Programs, College of Engineering. “Nearly all our students find employment within a few months or immediately after graduation. At the undergraduate level, around 40% of civil engineering students at the University of Michigan have historically chosen to specialize in construction. This field often ranks in the top five for job satisfaction and earning potential in national surveys.”

Start with a Certificate, Stack to a Master’s

For those interested in construction but not yet ready to commit to a master’s degree, there’s an additional option. Learners can begin by participating in the online Construction Engineering & Management certificate program. This unique program consists of 6 courses on various construction topics. Completing all six courses within 9 months leads to a professional certificate. This certificate can count toward six credits for the master’s degree.