UAB has many resources available for its students. If you do not see what you are looking for on one of these sites, don't hesitate to contact the CEM program administrators.
U.S. News and World Report Job Rankings
The publication examines construction manager responsibilities, salary, reviews, and advice. It also lists job openings.
BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics analyzes the construction manager profession, including job outlook and salary projections.
Students will need specific hardware and software to complete the MEng with a concentration in Construction Engineering Management. As with all technology, the required equipment is subject to change and additional items may need to be acquired or purchased. The Needed Equipment includes, but is not limited to:
-
Hardware
-
Laptop Computer
Operating System: Windows 10 - 64-bit (caution: Windows 10 S-Mode is not supported).
Processor: Multi-core Pentium, Xeon, or i-Series or AMD equivalent.
Memory: 8 to 16 GB.
Hard drive: 320 GB. 25 GB Free hard-drive space.
Laptop or Desktop Monitor: student's choice.
- Second Monitor (required): 24" to 27" Screen - 1,280 x 1,024 with true color.
Mouse: Wireless with scroll wheel (recommended).
Graphics Card: A high quality graphics card for advanced graphics (i.e. NVIDIA® GeForce 6200 GPUs/NVIDIA GeForce GTX 750). This particular high-end graphics card is required to run specific software programs (i.e. Autodesk Revit) in the CECM 689 Building Information Modeling (BIM) course. You will be using the latest version of the software.
Learn more about Autodesk software requirements by browsing the internet for the latest versions of Autodesk Revit and Autodesk Naviswork Manage.
Note about Computer Choice
We strongly recommend that CEM students purchase their own Windows-based personal computer. CEM students will need to have full administrative rights for their computer to install software applications for use in their CECM 669, CECM 673, and CECM 689 courses. In the past, some students attempting to use their work computers have encountered issues installing these software applications due to administrative rights restrictions and/or conflicting software on work computers.
Additionally, some students have experienced issues during exams due to incompatibility with web proctor service when using work computers. During exams, students need to have full administrative rights to allow remote access on their computer and monitor by the proctor.
Students wishing to use an Apple computer will need to take additional steps to install and run specific Windows-based software programs. This includes Microsoft Project (used in CECM 669: Advanced Project Management), Oracle Primavera Contractor (used in CECM 673: Techniques of Project Planning and Control), or Autodesk Revit and Naviswork (used in CECM 689: Building Information Modeling).
- Students will need to purchase and install either Parallels Desktop, Boot Camp, or VMWare Fusion on their Mac. Second, they will need to purchase and install a copy of the Windows Operating System.
- After completing these two tasks, students should be able to install and run the required Windows-based course software programs.
The most effective and issue-free way to install and learn how to use the various required software packages taught in CEM is on a Windows-based computer. Typically, students who encounter issues with the Windows-based programs are those who choose to use a Mac. Students using Windows-based computers do not encounter similar issues when installing or running these applications. Although we can provide general information and guidance, Mac users will be responsible for resolving issues that they encounter while choosing to run Windows and Windows programs on a Mac.
-
Printer/Scanner
Office Jet, Desk Jet, All-in-One Printer, and Scanner (student's choice).
-
Storage
Back-up Drive: 1 TB External Drive, OneDrive, or a Cloud Service. Original work and back-up copy to be kept in different places.
Carry-on: Flash drives: 4GB or 8GB (optional).
-
Audio/Video (Virtual Class Participation and Online Proctored Examinations)
- Headset/Earbuds
- Webcam [Internal/External]
- Microphone [Internal/External]
Virtual Class Participation:
Internal laptop webcams and microphones are suitable for virtual class participation only. However, internal speakers cannot be used for virtual classes. Students are required to use an external headphone/headset or earbuds.
Online Proctored Exams:
Internal webcams and microphones are not suitable for online proctored exams. An external webcam and microphone is required for use during proctored exams.
For students using a laptop with an external monitor, the laptop must be closed and an external keyboard is required.
-
Internet Service
To be successful in the program, students are required to have a strong reliable high-speed Internet and connectivity connection — cable modem or DSL broadband — with the following bandwidth:
- Internet download speed: 12 Mbps
- Internet upload speed: 3 Mbps
It is recommended that students use a dual-band router and have a direct hard-wired connection from their computer to the internet source (modem/router). NO WIFI.
Hotspots and tethering are not allowed during proctored exams.
Test your internet speed at speedtest.net.
-
Digital Textbooks/eBooks
Tablets, smart phones, and other electronic devices are not acceptable to access ebooks during proctored examinations. If ebooks are allowed by the instructor during a proctored examination, they must be accessed on the computer monitored by ProctorU. Students purchasing Kindle ebooks will need to install the Kindle for PC app on their proctored computer.
-
Calculator
Standard hand-held scientific calculator.
-
Laptop Computer
-
Software
Students will need recent versions of:
- MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Adobe Acrobat Standard to create multi-page PDF files (or equivalent)
- Media player
- Firefox or Chrome Internet browser
- Screenshot and Image creating tool (Snipping Tool, One Note or similar)
All CEM course content is delivered through Canvas, UAB's e-learning software platform. Learn about Canvas' browser requirements.
Software Discounts
As a UAB CEM student, you have access to free or discounted software through UAB IT's OnTheHub website.
Of particular interest to CEM Students:
- Microsoft Office 365 (includes student email and storage via OneDrive)
- Email for students through Office 365 – set-up instructions
- UAB Microsoft Azure — Microsoft Project for CECM 669 and VMWare Fusion to use Windows on a Mac
- Antivirus software: Windows Defender (Windows 8.1, Windows 10), or Sophos Anti-virus (OS X).
Software can also be purchased at discounted prices at thinkedu.com.
To enroll in the following courses, you must be admitted through the UAB Graduate School seeking a Master of Engineering Degree with a concentration in Construction Engineering Management (CEM). The core curriculum courses are subject to additional CEM fees.
-
CECM 669: Advanced Project Management
3 credit hours.
Skills generally required for sound project management in a variety of management settings are studied, in addition to specific management issues typically associated with engineering and construction companies.
Students are introduced to the Project Management Institute’s Body of Knowledge (PMBOK). A discussion of corporate organizational structures and the evolving use of project management processes helps establish an appreciation for the role of a project manager. The elements of a project and the role and responsibilities of the project manager are studied in depth. Students are also acquainted with risk management concepts, financial, labor, safety, equipment, contracting issues facing managers in the engineering and construction environment. Particular emphasis is placed on individual management strengths and weakness, team building, and characteristics of successful companies.
One of the primary vehicles for discussion will be small case studies from real companies and the outside reading of one or two relevant topical books.
-
CECM 670: Construction Estimating and Bidding
3 credit hours.
This course provides an overview of typical construction delivery systems and the planning and contracting associated with each.
A broad study of estimating methodology ranging from order of magnitude estimates to detailed unit pricing is presented focusing on labor, equipment, materials, subcontractors, job conditions, location, overhead, and profit. Students will learn about the importance of constructing a detailed Work Breakdown Structure in the estimating process.
This course is intended to establish a basic understanding of the estimating process, and therefore substantial course focus will be placed on the term group project which consists of the development of a bid estimate for a small construction project.
-
CECM 671: Construction Liability and Contracts
3 credit hours.
This course provides an overview of the fundamental aspects of the laws that affect construction and engineering companies as well as the project owners.
Particular emphasis is placed on contract forms and provisions related to liability for engineering design and construction companies, the roles of the typical participation in the process, and dispute resolution. Students will learn the importance of contract language negotiations and the impact of project risk transfer.
-
CECM 672: Construction Methods and Equipment
3 credit hours.
This course provides students a big-picture understanding of the construction methods employed to bring the concepts and designs of architects and engineers to physical reality.
The International Building Code is presented in the course material as are the fundamental principles of green building and sustainable design. Detailed study of typical building materials, design details, and construction methods are presented in a logical sequence. Students will understand the planning and deployment of equipment, materials, labor, and subcontractors using a variety of building material and system types.
This course provides a necessary baseline knowledge vocabulary and understanding of the role and activities of the designers, engineers, material suppliers, inspectors, and constructors in the commercial building process.
-
CECM 673: Techniques of Project Planning and Control
3 credit hours.
This course provides a thorough understanding of the project scheduling process in construction planning and control.
Students learn the relationship between the work breakdown structure, organization breakdown structure, and the activities used in developing project schedules. The Critical Path Method (CPM), the Precedence Diagram Method (PDM), the Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT), and the Line of Balance (LOB) scheduling methods are discussed in detail to include hand calculations and powerful computer software products. The use of scheduling techniques for project control, resources constraint management, cash flow management, risk management, and project completion date management are investigated as is the importance of communications in the planning and monitoring/controlling processes.
Students will experience hands on use with Primavera scheduling software.
-
CECM 674: Green Building Design/Construction
3 credit hours.
This course provides an introduction to the emerging trends in green building sustainable design and construction.
The course will include instruction suitable to prepare students for the Leadership in Energy and Environmental (LEED©) Green Building Rating SystemTM certification exam.
-
CECM 675: Advanced Construction and Engineering Economics
3 credit hours.
This course provides an extensive overview of financial and managerial accounting concepts for non-financial managers.
Students will learn the basic elements of accounting (Generally Accepted Accounting Practices). They will understand how typical financial records and financial statements are established for companies. Once the basics are understood, students will study how financial data is used for internal cost controlling, planning, and budgeting. Fundamental financial calculations associated with the time value of money, debt instruments, taxes, inflation, and cash flow estimates are emphasized.
Students will be expected to demonstrate proficiency in the use of Excel business functions in solving financial problems.
-
CECM 676: Construction Project Risk Management
3 credit hours.
This course addresses the methodologies employed in the engineering and construction industries to assist in rational decision-making in the face of uncertainty.
The course reviews the fundamentals of common probabilistic theories and models, data sampling, hypothesis testing, and the basics of Bayesian Decision Theory. In addition, basic financial analysis tools will be reviewed. Theoretical models will then be applied to specific examples encountered in engineering and construction decision making with emphasis on engineering economics applications.
-
CECM 688: Construction Management and Leadership Challenges in the Global Environment
3 credit hours.
This course is designed to prepare students to face the demanding management and leadership challenges facing construction and engineering industry leaders as competition becomes ever more globalized.
The necessity to personally remain trained and relevant in the changing business environment is emphasized. Strong resume writing and oral interview skills are emphasized as a necessary skill for job seekers as well as job providers. Strategic planning, management, and leadership in the built environment requires savvy leaders with exceptionally developed analytical and communications skills suitable for multi-disciplinary and multi-national ventures. Every individual and organization must continually innovate and reinvent to stay competitive.
Students participate in a group project designed to reinforce the methodology associated with preparing and presenting a dynamic business plan. This course will provide the opportunity for students to discuss and research these concepts and to recognize the necessity to think independently, challenge conventional thinking, and visualize alternatives.
-
CECM 689: Building Information Modeling (BIM) Techniques
3 credit hours.
This course provides students with an overview of the evolution of BIM technology in the construction industry followed by hands-on training in the basic application of contemporary BIM software.
Students will learn basic modeling skills and how to produce graphical presentations. Advanced applications of BIM technology will be discussed and demonstrated. Students will be provided with BIM software and will be required to complete a multi-step BIM model as a term project.
The Master's of Engineering with a concentration in Construction Engineering Management can be completed in approximately 19 months, but a 12-month option is also available. Course descriptions are available.
Typical Schedule for the 19-month Degree Plan
Total Credit Hours: 30
Note: all courses are 3 credit hours.
First Term
- CECM 669: Advanced Project Management
- CECM 672: Construction Methods and Equipment
Second Term
- CECM 670: Construction Estimating and Bidding
- CECM 671: Construction Liability and Contracts
Third Term
- CECM 673: Techniques of Project Planning and Control
- CECM 674: Green Building Design/Construction
Fourth Term
- CECM 675: Advanced Construction and Engineering Economics
- CECM 689: Building Information Modeling (BIM) Techniques
Fifth Term
- CECM 676: Construction Project Risk Management
- CECM 688: Construction Management and Leadership Challenges in the Global Environment
Typical Schedule for the 12-month Degree Plan
Total Credit Hours: 30
Note: all courses are 3 credit hours.
Spring Term
- CECM 669: Advanced Project Management
- CECM 670: Construction Estimating and Bidding
- CECM 671: Construction Liability and Contracts
- CECM 672: Construction Methods and Equipment
Summer Term
- CECM 673: Techniques of Project Planning and Control
- CECM 676: Construction Project Risk Management
- CECM 688: Construction Management and Leadership Challenges in the Global Environment
Fall Term
- CECM 674: Green Building Design/Construction
- CECM 675: Advanced Construction and Engineering Economics
- CECM 689: Building Information Modeling (BIM) Techniques
The University of Alabama at Birmingham is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate, masters, educational specialist, and doctorate degrees. The University of Alabama at Birmingham also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of the University of Alabama at Birmingham may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacs.org).
What about ABET?
What about accreditation from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)? Typically, engineering graduate programs are not ABET accredited. The Master of Engineering with a concentration in Construction Engineering Management is not an ABET accredited program.
The requirements to become a professional engineer can differ from state to state.
At a minimum, most states require an undergraduate degree from an accredited engineering program (certified by an organization such as ABET) before an individual can be classified as an “engineer intern.”
A MEng degree alone without a qualifying undergraduate engineering degree is not sufficient to satisfy the educational requirements to become an “engineer intern.” In addition, an MEng degree may not reduce the amount of work experience required to become licensed.
Visit the National Society of Professional Engineers and your own state licensing board for more information.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) offers a Master of Engineering (MEng) degree with a concentration in Construction Engineering Management (CEM), within the Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering (CCEE). Our students have an opportunity to advance their project management, construction, architectural, and engineering knowledge through a fully online delivery method. The 19-month curriculum focuses on empowering working professionals with the knowledge to meet today’s daily construction industry challenges.
Planning for the Future
The era when someone can start as a construction laborer and quickly advance to the level of a professional project manager is gone. Construction owners and organizations expect their managers to arrive academically prepared to oversee construction projects, and to demonstrate certain decision-making, risk management, financial, legal, regulatory, communication, and technological skills. The CEM curriculum helps equip students to succeed in today’s rapidly changing construction environment.
In addition, the appeal of the curriculum spans multiple industry stakeholders and a wide range of age groups, including women interested in bridging the current industry gender gap and becoming part of the construction engineering workforce.
The CEM concentration is applauded by many of our graduates as one of the best decisions they have made to improve their professional career, family’s security, and personal well-being. With continuous annual increases in student enrollment and attendance at orientation, it is evident that the CEM concentration is gaining popularity.
Fully Online and Convenient to All Students
The nationally ranked UAB MEng program in CEM is seeking students who have some relevant construction experience, are academically committed, self-motivated, and ready to learn cutting edge technologies and methods. The fully online program is convenient and available to students no matter where they are located geographically. When compared to similar programs, the affordability, rigor, and curriculum offered by UAB MEng program in CEM differentiates itself.
Also, all students pay in-state tuition and no GRE is required.
Come be part of our team by applying to the UAB Graduate School today.