Construction Management
Construction management (STEM) is the planning, bidding, and coordination of a project from construction drawings to completion; its participants are the “business managers” for the built environment. A construction manager may work for a large development/construction company, as an owner’s representative on projects, or as a specialist in one of the many roles required for the efficient, economically viable, and safe delivery of construction projects. These construction projects may have a variety of purposes from housing, commercial/office space, recreational and urban placemaking plazas, to intermodal transportation projects.
The construction manager is charged with the tasks of assembling a team for construction; contending with numerous local, state, and federal regulations; and coordinating skilled craftspeople, unions, contractors, subcontractors, architects, engineers, planners, consultants, and the owner/developer. The day-to-day challenges of construction management make for some of the most demanding assignments in the world, whether a manager is overseeing the construction of a towering skyscraper or a public plaza.
Construction management is a collaborative effort. The primary relationships among stakeholders can be represented by a triangle, with the owner at one point, the architect/engineer at another, and the construction manager at the third. Given the growing complexity of design and construction, whether urban, suburban, or rural, there are no major projects built without this crucial team in place.
Pratt’s School of Architecture has the distinction of being one of the first and one of the few urban schools in the nation to offer this essential degree program.
The Construction Management program provides a professional education that emphasizes critical thinking and connects business management with construction technology on a strong foundation in liberal arts education suitable for a career in building construction.
During their time at Pratt, students are encouraged to take advantage of the program’s industry connections and participate in the many internship opportunities. In addition to individual scholarships, many of the industry associations provide financial support for Pratt students.
Perfectly located in New York City, with a wide range of development and construction firms, students are encouraged to participate in experiential learning and internships.
Graduates of the Construction Management program should:
- understand the roles and responsibilities of the participants in a construction project;
- be able to plan and organize the work of a construction project;
- be able to apply knowledge from English, mathematics, science, management, and communication courses to construction-related activities;
- be capable of collaborating with members of a team with an emphasis on written and verbal communication;
- understand the importance of ethical practice; and possess a passion for lifelong learning.
Students can apply for matriculation (acceptance into the degree-granting program) upon admission or they can be admitted with special, nonmatriculating status.
Admission Interviews
Admitted students may wish to talk with the Chair of Construction Management before registration for courses. An appointment should be made in advance. Contact: cm@pratt.edu.
Chair
Audrey Schultz, Ph.D.
aschul47@pratt.edu
Office
Tel: 212.647.7524
Fax: 212.367.2497
Email: cm@pratt.edu
www.pratt.edu/construction-management
STEM designation for CM/FM
04.0902 Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology