Skip to Main Content
PhD in Construction Management

Welcome to the PhD Degree section of the Construction Management program in The School of Planning, Design and Construction at Michigan State University. It is one of the most reputable programs in the country. It enjoys strong affiliations with major contracting, design-build, and construction management industry leaders nationwide. The Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Construction Management are designed to combine the technical and managerial aspects of construction projects. The major goals of the graduate programs are:

  • To expose students to the latest advancements in technology applications and project management systems.
  • To enhance the decision making process by creating an innovation seeking and research "mind set".
  • To create an awareness of the global aspects of construction management.
  • To prepare graduates to manage various functions of complex construction projects.

Programs vary with individual students but generally consist of courses from Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture, Urban and Regional Planning, Accounting, Management, Labor and Industrial Relations, Resource Development, Statistics or Education. Students may also work directly with one or more faculty members on an independent basis to cover material that is not available through a regular course.

Students in the graduate program will have opportunities to focus on topics including:

  • Estimating, Scheduling, and Project Controls
  • Construction Management Information Systems
  • Computer Applications in Construction Management
  • Design-Build
  • Lean Construction
  • Construction Contracts and Legal Aspects
  • Housing
  • Construction Safety and Ergonomics
  • Land Development and Housing
  • Sustainable and Energy Efficient Design and Construction
  • International Project Management
  • Construction Education

The Doctor of Philosophy in Construction Management is designed to provide students with the ability to conduct research on construction management including management theories and their applications in various sectors of the construction industry and to serve as educators, researchers and professionals in the field of construction management.

Please click here to view Graduate Handbook (110 KB, PDF).
Information for Prospective Ph.D. Students (39 KB, PDF)