Construction Science and Management (CSM)

CSM 1260. Introduction to the Construction Industry.

This course introduces the construction industry within the context of Construction Science and Management (CSM). Students learn the roles and responsibilities of project participants, design criteria for structures, and compare materials and structural systems used across sectors. The course reviews academic program requirements, certification examinations, sources of academic advising, and professional organizations. Industry guest speakers are incorporated as case-based learning opportunities to contextualize course concepts. Prominent sectors of the construction industry are introduced, including commercial, residential, and heavy civil construction.

CSM 1360. Introduction to the Construction Industry.

This course introduces the construction industry within the context of Construction Science and Management (CSM). Students learn the roles and responsibilities of project participants, design criteria for structures, and compare materials and structural systems used across sectors. The course reviews academic program requirements, certification examinations, sources of academic advising, and professional organizations. Industry guest speakers are incorporated as case-based learning opportunities to contextualize course concepts. Prominent sectors of the construction industry are introduced, including commercial, residential, and heavy civil construction.

CSM 2160. Introduction to Construction Surveying and Site Layout.

This course explores the methods and applications of construction surveying and site layout for Construction Management. Topics include surveying terminology, equipment use, and techniques for grade, distance, and angular measurement. Students investigate procedures for site layout, project control, and documentation, supported by laboratory-based fieldwork. The course also introduces current technologies in surveying equipment and processes and advancements in precision and workflow. Through applied exercises, students develop analytical skills for interpreting measurements and implementing layout strategies. Prerequisite: MATH 2321 or MATH 2417 or MATH 2471 with a grade of "C" or better.

CSM 2190. Industrial Internship.

This course is a supervised experiential learning opportunity in technical disciplines appropriate to the student’s degree program. It emphasizes the integration of academic theory with professional practice through a structured industry internship. The internship is a field-based learning experience conducted under the mentorship of an industry supervisor. Students complete a minimum of 10 weeks (400 hours) of supervised work experience in the construction industry, gaining hands-on exposure to industry practices, professional standards, and workplace problem-solving relevant to their field of study. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

CSM 2262. Construction Lab.

This course analyzes construction techniques, safety procedures, and team-based project execution in residential and commercial building environments. Students apply and evaluate technical processes through the assembly of construction components using professional-grade tools and materials. Instruction examines regulatory standards, equipment operation protocols, and quality control measures. The course further explores the development and implementation of Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) systems, assessing their role in planning, coordination, and project delivery. Analytical outcomes include interpreting construction specifications, comparing procedural approaches, and evaluating the integration of digital modeling technologies in field operations. Prerequisite: CSM 2313 with a grade of "C" or better.

CSM 2268. Sustainable & Lean Construction.

This course provides an in-depth examination of environmentally sustainable and lean management practices as applied to building design and construction. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) framework is used to guide exploration of sustainable strategies, including sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, and indoor environmental quality. The course also explores the integration, alignment, and practical relationship between lean principles and sustainable construction practices to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance overall project value.

CSM 2313. Construction Documents.

This course is an introduction to construction documents where students learn to read construction plans and specifications, interpret documents to find information, and understand the relationship between various types of construction documents. Students investigate how different document types interact and apply analytical methods to extract relevant project information. Students learn common architectural convention and terminology in drawings, understanding standard symbols, abbreviations, acronyms, and details common to the construction industry. Emphasis is placed on evaluating how construction documents communicate design intent and technical requirements within project environments.

CSM 2342. Construction Materials and Methods.

This course introduces materials, methods, and sequences of the construction process, with an emphasis on Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) Divisions 2 through 14. Students learn terminology and project account coding used in planning, estimating, and tracking materials and labor across construction activities. The course examines construction materials and assemblies, including their properties, uses, and interactions within different construction system types. It also addresses the interpretation of construction documents and their role in construction processes.

CSM 2360. Residential Construction I.

This course explores the organization and execution of residential construction projects, focusing on the sequence of activities and trade-specific scopes of work. Students investigate the builder’s responsibilities across project stages and examine residential plans for structural and design details. The curriculum incorporates quantitative analysis for cost estimation, introducing widely used techniques for calculating total construction costs. Practical applications include interpreting plans and applying estimating tools to evaluate project budgets, reinforcing the connection between technical documentation and financial planning in homebuilding. Prerequisite: CSM 2342 and CSM 2313 both with grades of “C” or better.

CSM 2361. Construction Surveying.

This course explores the methods and applications of construction surveying and site layout for Construction Management. Topics include surveying terminology, equipment use, and techniques for grade, distance, and angular measurement. Students investigate procedures for site layout, project control, and documentation, supported by laboratory-based fieldwork. The course also introduces current technologies in surveying equipment and processes and advancements in precision and workflow. Through applied exercises, students develop analytical skills for interpreting measurements and implementing layout strategies. Prerequisite: MATH 2321 or MATH 2417 or MATH 2471 with a grade of "C" or better.

CSM 2362. Commercial Building I.

This course explores the systems and documentation associated with commercial building construction. Topics include soils, site preparation, deep foundations, structural steel, reinforced and precast concrete, and typical assemblies. Students investigate commercial MEP systems and examine CSI MasterFormat specifications, as-built drawings, shop drawings, and schedules of values. The course also introduces AIA contract documents and relevant building codes, emphasizing analytical approaches to understanding how technical systems and documentation support project delivery. Prerequisite: CSM 2342 and CSM 2313 both with grades of “C” or better.

CSM 2363. Heavy Civil I - Construction Systems.

This course introduces the selection, acquisition and capabilities of heavy construction equipment. Applications of economics, heavy equipment performance characteristics and production rates of equipment are discussed. Sector-specific construction management methods are covered, including unit price estimating, equipment fleet design and equipment spreads, repetitive scheduling and major components of highways, bridges and engineered facilities. Students learn to analyze operating costs including equipment purchase and maintenance, labor rates, and to select from among various alternatives. Prerequisite: CSM 2342 and CSM 2313 both with grades of “C” or better.

CSM 2364. Construction Estimating I.

This course introduces students to the principles and practices of quantity surveying in construction, with an emphasis on industry-standard methods for material take-off and quantification. Emphasis is placed on accurately measuring and documenting construction materials using standard units and professional formats. Through practical exercises and real-world examples, the material prepares individuals to perform detailed quantity surveying tasks essential for project planning, cost estimation, budgeting, and effective construction management across a variety of project types and delivery methods. Prerequisite: CSM 2313 with a grade of “C” or better.

CSM 3360. Structural Analysis for Construction.

This course is an introduction to the behavior of structural components and systems and the design process for construction managers. Introduces principles of statics and strengths of materials, principles of mechanics and materials behavior relating to building structures including force systems, frame analysis, gravity load tracing, wind and seismic resistance for concrete and steel buildings. Concepts of design of temporary structures for construction including formwork and temporary platforms are introduced. Prerequisite: MATH 2417 and PHYS 1315 and PHYS 1115 all with grades of “C” or better.

CSM 3361. Commercial I - Building Construction Systems.

This is a commercial building construction systems class that deals with soils, site work, heavy foundations, steel, reinforced concrete and pre-cast structures along with common assemblies. Commercial MEP’s are studied along with CSI master format, as-built and shop drawings, schedule of values, AIA documents and appropriate building codes.

CSM 3363. Heavy, Civil and Highway I - Construction Systems.

This course covers the selection, acquisition and capabilities of heavy construction equipment, as well as the application of economics to performance characteristics and production of equipment. Sector-specific construction management methods are covered, including unit price estimating, equipment fleet design, repetitive scheduling and major components of highways, bridges and engineered facilities. Prerequisite: CSM 2342 with a grade of "C" or better.

CSM 3366. Soils and Foundations.

This course introduces construction management students to the applied properties of soils as they relate to construction activities and foundation systems. Emphasis is placed on understanding soil classification, compaction, bearing capacity, moisture content, and settlement, with a focus on interpreting soil reports and their implications for construction projects. Students will explore various types of foundations—including shallow and deep systems—and learn how soil characteristics influence foundation selection, design considerations, and construction methods. Prerequisite: CSM 2313 with a grade of “C” or better.

CSM 3367. Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing Systems.

This course provides an analytical overview of building service systems, including HVAC, plumbing, fire suppression, and electrical infrastructure. Students examine system functions, design assumptions, and material and equipment choices within the context of the built environment. The course analyzes installation methods, commissioning, and testing processes, with reference to industry standards and regulatory requirements. Topics related to sustainability are addressed as measurable performance factors and design considerations rather than normative goals. Instruction emphasizes technical reasoning, terminology, and system integration. Students learn to evaluate system performance and design approaches using drawings, specifications, and real-world examples. Prerequisite: CSM 2313 with a grade of "C" or better.

CSM 3368. Construction Finance.

This course introduces students to construction finance principles and cost control practices essential for successful project and company management. Topics include construction accounting methods, project budgeting, cost reporting, forecasting, earned value analysis, cash flow management, and financial statement fundamentals. Students will learn how different contract types affect cost reporting, how to convert estimates into budgets, and how to monitor, analyze, and control project costs using industry-standard practices. Emphasis is placed on practical financial decision-making, construction economics, and corporate financial management in the construction industry. Prerequisite: ACC 2301 or ACC 2362 with a grade of "C" or better.

CSM 3369. Residential II: Business Practices.

This course explores the structure and processes of business operations in homebuilding and residential development. Students investigate the annual business cycle, organizational workflows, and the responsibilities of professionals within residential companies. Operational and financial principles, including business metrics used to monitor performance and guide planning will be addressed. Analytical activities reinforce theoretical concepts, enabling students to evaluate how operational strategies align with financial objectives and industry practices. Prerequisite: CSM 2360 with a grade of "C" or better.

CSM 3371. Commercial II - Project Management.

This course builds on the concepts presented in Commercial Building I, advancing student knowledge of project management principles, emerging technologies, financial controls, and regulatory compliance specific to large-scale commercial construction projects. Students will develop skills in risk management, labor relations, project planning, stakeholder communication, and business development through applied case studies and real-world scenarios. Emphasis is placed on integrating complex project systems, evaluating project performance, and creating management solutions to deliver successful commercial construction projects. Prerequisite: CSM 2362 or CSM 3361 with a grade of “C” or better.

CSM 3373. Heavy Civil II - Project Management.

This course is the second in a two-course elective track for students preparing for careers in heavy civil construction. Students apply advanced technical knowledge and management skills to plan, organize, and control heavy civil projects, including bridges, highways, tunnels, dams, underground utilities, and specialized infrastructure. Emphasis is placed on advanced estimating, resource selection, project scheduling, field operations, and administrative processes necessary for the successful delivery of large-scale heavy civil projects. Prerequisite: CSM 2363 or CSM 3363 with a grade of “C” or better.

CSM 4313. Building Information Modeling for Construction Managers.

This course introduces Building Information Modeling (BIM) and its applications in project planning, preconstruction, and project control activities. Topics include creation, interpretation, and evaluation of 3D models using BIM software tools, with emphasis on model-based collaboration, visualization, and clash detection. The course examines the role of BIM in project planning, coordination, and communication within construction processes. Prerequisite: CSM 2313 with a grade of "C" or better.

CSM 4314. Virtual Design & Construction.

This course explores Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) technologies with a focus on applications in construction management. Topics include the use of platforms such as Bluebeam, Revit, Navisworks, and Procore, as well as virtual, augmented, and mixed reality technologies for project visualization and management. The course examines the integration of digital tools for coordination, communication, and project analysis within construction workflows. Prerequisite: CSM 4313 with a grade of "C" or better.

CSM 4360. Commercial Capstone.

This course is a culmination of previous work where students work in groups, preparing a bid proposal based on a real-life construction project involving contract negotiations, construction documents interpretation, estimating, bidding, scheduling, safety, and quality control plans. Emphasis is on developing leadership, team building, and written and oral communication skills. Students will be prepared to sit for the AIC Level 1 Examination after this course. Prerequisites: (CSM 2190 or TECH 2190) and CSM 4313 and CSM 4361 and CSM 4364 and (CSM 3369 or CSM 3371 or CSM 3373 or CSM 4314) all with a grade of “C” or better.

CSM 4361. Construction Estimating II.

This course explores construction estimating as systematic processes that support project planning and procurement. Using a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) framework, the course analyzes work item classification, resource allocation, and bid preparation techniques. Students examine preconstruction services, proposal development, and how estimating practices vary across project delivery methods such as design-bid-build and design-build. Analytical activities focus on comparing estimate types, evaluating assumptions, and assessing the implications of estimating decisions on cost control and project outcomes. Emphasis is placed on interpreting drawings, specifications, and cost data within a structured and objective estimating methodology. Prerequisite: CSM 2364 with a grade of “C” or better.

CSM 4363. Heavy Civil Capstone.

This course requires students to synthesize prior heavy civil construction coursework through group-based development of a bid proposal based on a large-scale infrastructure project. Students analyze contract negotiation processes, interpret construction documents, and evaluate estimating methods, bidding procedures, scheduling techniques, and approaches to safety and quality control planning within heavy civil construction contexts. Team-based project work serves as a methodological framework for examining leadership structures, collaboration, and professional written and oral communication in complex construction environments. The course addresses content that prepares students to sit for the AIC Level Certified Associate Constructor exam. Prerequisite: [CSM 3369 or CSM 3371 or CSM 3373] and CSM 4364 and CSM 3368 with grades of “C” or better.

CSM 4364. Construction Scheduling.

This course provides a study of construction sequencing and scheduling, emphasizing the application of Critical Path Method (CPM) techniques for project planning, activity scheduling, and project control. Topics include sequencing construction operations, resource allocation, and project timeline analysis using standard scheduling practices. The course also examines collaborative scheduling methodologies, including pull planning and the Last Planner System, and their role in construction workflow and coordination. Prerequisite: CSM 2364 with a grade of "C" or better.

CSM 4368. Sustainable & Lean Construction Practices.

This course covers environmentally sustainable and lean management practices in building design and construction. Topics include the LEED framework and its categories, such as sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, and indoor environmental quality. The course examines the relationship between lean construction principles and sustainability, including their integration in design and construction processes.

CSM 4369. Construction Contracts, Risks, and Ethics.

This course provides an in-depth exploration of legal concepts in construction, including contract law, torts, and construction-specific issues such as indemnification, liens, bonding, and claims management. Topics include contract formation, construction defects, dispute resolution processes, public contracts, procurement codes, and environmental and labor law. The course also examines contract review, risk management, and analysis of Texas statutory regulations and case law affecting the construction industry, along with ethical considerations in construction practice.

CSM 4370. Residential Capstone.

This course requires students to synthesize prior residential construction coursework through group-based development of proposals focused on residential land development and home construction. Students analyze processes for evaluating and developing raw land into buildable lots, examine the design and scheduling of site-specific residential projects, and assess approaches to residential project planning and marketing. Team-based project work serves as a methodological framework for examining coordination, decision-making, and professional communication within residential construction contexts. The course addresses content that prepares students to sit for the AIC Level Certified Associate Constructor exam. Prerequisite: (CSM 2190 OR TECH 2190) and CSM 4313 and CSM 4361 and CSM 4364 and (CSM 3369 OR CSM 3371 OR CSM 3373 OR CSM 4314) all with a grade of “C” or better.

CSM 4380. Construction Safety.

This course provides an overview of construction health and safety, emphasizing OSHA regulations, laws, and the hierarchy of controls for managing workplace hazards. Topics include risk assessment, personal protective equipment (PPE), emergency response procedures, and safety planning. The course also examines mental health considerations in construction, including factors related to worker well-being within project environments. Prerequisite: CSM 2190 OR CIM 2090 OR TECH 2190 with a grade of "D" or better.

CSM 5199B. Thesis.

This course provides enrollment for students engaged in thesis research and writing in construction science and management under the supervision of a thesis advisor. Students conduct activities such as research design, data collection, analysis, and preparation of written thesis components. Enrollment may be maintained during periods of active research or writing. The course includes documentation of research findings in accordance with program requirements and is a required component of the master’s degree in construction management.

CSM 5299B. Thesis.

This course provides enrollment for students engaged in thesis research and writing in construction science and management under the supervision of a thesis advisor. Students conduct activities such as research design, data collection, analysis, and preparation of written thesis components. Enrollment may be maintained during periods of active research or writing. The course includes documentation of research findings in accordance with program requirements and is a required component of the master’s degree in construction management.

CSM 5302. Foundations of Construction Contracts and Liability Issues.

This course examines the legal foundations of construction contracts and the allocation of risk and liability within the construction industry. Emphasis is placed on contract formation, interpretation, and administration, including the roles and responsibilities of owners, designers, contractors, and subcontractors. Topics include contract types, bonding and insurance, claims and disputes, professional liability, and risk management strategies. The course includes analysis of case materials and standard contract documents to identify legal issues related to construction projects.

CSM 5303. Foundations of Heavy, Civil and Highway Construction.

This course provides an introduction to the principles and practices of heavy, civil, and highway construction. Emphasis is placed on construction methods, materials, equipment, and project delivery systems used in earthwork, transportation, and infrastructure projects. Topics include site preparation, excavation, grading, pavement systems, drainage, structures, and safety considerations. The course examines how design requirements, specifications, and environmental constraints influence construction operations in large-scale infrastructure projects.

CSM 5304. Foundations of Construction Estimating.

This course introduces fundamental principles and techniques used in construction cost estimating. Emphasis is placed on quantity takeoff, labor and equipment productivity, material pricing, and the preparation of detailed and conceptual estimates. The course includes interpretation of construction drawings, specifications, and bid documents for cost estimation. Topics include estimating methods for different project types, contingencies, overhead, profit, and the role of estimating in project planning and decision-making.

CSM 5306. Foundations of Commercial Building Construction Systems.

This course introduces fundamental systems and methods used in commercial building construction. Emphasis is placed on structural systems, building envelopes, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems, and construction materials. The course examines how design requirements, codes, and sustainability considerations influence construction processes. Topics include project delivery methods, sequencing, and coordination among trades in commercial building projects.

CSM 5314. Virtual Design & Construction (VDC) Management.

This course examines the supervisory role of construction professionals within the Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) process. It analyzes how VDC teams integrate construction documents, including architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing plans, to support construction activities. The course evaluates methods for coordinating site work and managing digital workflows using current CAD software for 2D and 3D design. Students study the principles and applications of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and assess additional technologies influencing contemporary construction practice. Emphasis is placed on understanding processes, coordination strategies, and decision-making frameworks relevant to supervising VDC-related activities.

CSM 5360. Construction Company Financial Control.

This course introduces financial management principles and their application within the construction industry. Topics include accounting systems, financial transactions, depreciation, financial ratios, general and overhead cost management, profit margins, cost centers, cash flow management, and the time value of money. The course examines how financial concepts interact within construction project management and organizational decision-making.

CSM 5361. Construction Failures.

This course focuses on identifying the causes of structural or material failures in buildings and infrastructure. The work involves collecting field evidence, analyzing materials, assessing design and construction practices, and determining whether failures were due to workmanship errors, design defects, material degradation, environmental factors, or maintenance issues. The goal is to understand why a failure occurred, prevent future incidents, and provide recommendations for repairs, remediation, and improved construction practices.

CSM 5362. Pre-Construction Services.

This course examines designer–contractor interactions in contemporary construction projects from planning through project award. Topics include conceptual estimating and scheduling used in early project stages prior to detailed design. The course also addresses the Request for Qualification (RFQ) and Request for Proposal (RFP) processes, including document preparation, evaluation, and team selection. Additional topics include procurement methods and selection considerations that influence project delivery.

CSM 5363. Construction Project Delivery.

This course examines construction project delivery methods and contract strategies used to establish project execution frameworks. Topics include traditional, design-build, construction manager at-risk, and integrated project delivery approaches, with analysis of their characteristics and applicability to different project types. The course addresses key stages of each delivery method, including planning, design, procurement, and construction, and their influence on project schedule, cost, quality, and risk management. Case materials are used to examine the impact of delivery choices on project outcomes.

CSM 5364. Decision Making in Construction Management.

This course focuses on structured decision-making processes in construction management. It integrates management science techniques, data analysis, and construction-specific applications to address decision problems in construction and civil engineering projects. Topics include network and linear programming models, decision tree construction and evaluation under uncertainty, probability assessment, linear regression models for forecasting, and inventory management. The course includes the use of spreadsheet-based tools and modeling techniques for analysis in construction contexts.

CSM 5365. Construction Project Controls.

This course provides an overview of construction management cost and schedule concepts and their application throughout the project life cycle. Topics include cost and schedule management information systems, project scheduling using software tools such as Primavera P6, schedule updating and control, variance analysis, and forecasting of time and budget outcomes. The course also examines resource management and project recovery strategies, along with methods for identifying and addressing project performance issues.

CSM 5366. Soils in Construction.

This course provides an in-depth examination of geotechnical principles as they apply to soil construction activities. Topics include geological formations of natural soils, soil mineralogy, soil sampling, classification, and laboratory and field testing procedures used in design and construction. The course also addresses dewatering methods, excavation safety, and sustainability considerations in soil construction, including soil contamination and remediation strategies. Additional topics include recycled materials and technologies used in soil stabilization.

CSM 5367. Leadership in Construction.

This course examines principles and practices of leadership in the construction industry. Topics include team management, collaboration, workforce dynamics, decision-making, conflict resolution, communication, and ethical considerations. The course addresses leadership applications in project management and organizational behavior, including coordination among diverse project stakeholders. Additional focus is placed on leadership roles in safety management, productivity, and project execution. The course also examines how leadership approaches influence team performance and operational effectiveness within construction environments.

CSM 5368. Sustainable Construction.

This course explores sustainable construction techniques, including environmentally responsible design, material selection, and project delivery methods. Topics include energy and water efficiency, waste minimization, and life cycle cost analysis, with attention to the integration of sustainability throughout the construction process. The course also examines green building standards, including the LEED rating system, and technologies such as green roofs. Case materials are used to analyze sustainable construction practices and their impact on project and environmental performance.

CSM 5369. Construction Dispute Resolution.

This course examines dispute resolution processes in the construction industry, including negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and litigation. These mechanisms are analyzed from the perspectives of owners, designers, and contractors, with emphasis on liability allocation and risk management. The course addresses strategic considerations, dispute prevention methods, and common challenges in alternative dispute resolution. Case materials and research are used to analyze dispute resolution practices in construction contexts.

CSM 5380. Construction Safety Management.

This course provides a study of the administration and application of 29 CFR 1926 OSHA regulations specific to the construction industry, along with relevant state and federal safety laws governing construction, alterations, and repair work. Emphasis is placed on the responsibilities of owners, contractors, supervisors, and workers in maintaining construction site safety. Topics include hazard identification, accident prevention, safety program implementation, and regulatory compliance. Case materials are used to analyze safety practices and risk management in construction environments.

CSM 5390. Research in Construction.

This course examines research methods and practices specific to the construction industry. Topics include experimental design, application of scientific principles, problem-solving techniques, proposal development, research execution, data acquisition and management, statistical analysis, and reporting of results. The course also addresses current debates, challenges, and emerging issues in construction research, along with methods for evaluating scholarly work in construction science and management.

CSM 5399A. Thesis.

This course provides enrollment for students engaged in thesis research and writing in construction science and management under the supervision of a thesis advisor. Activities include research design, data collection, analysis, and preparation of written thesis components. Enrollment may be maintained during periods of active research or writing. The course includes documentation of research findings in accordance with program requirements and is a required component of the master’s degree in construction management.

CSM 5399B. Thesis.

This course provides enrollment for students engaged in thesis research and writing in construction science and management under the supervision of a thesis advisor. Activities include research design, data collection, analysis, and preparation of written thesis components. Enrollment may be maintained during periods of active research or writing. The course includes documentation of research findings in accordance with program requirements and is a required component of the master’s degree in construction management.

CSM 5599B. Thesis.

This course provides enrollment for students engaged in thesis research and writing in construction science and management under the supervision of a thesis advisor. Activities include research design, data collection, analysis, and preparation of written thesis components. Enrollment may be maintained during periods of active research or writing. The course includes documentation of research findings in accordance with program requirements and is a required component of the master’s degree in construction management.

CSM 5999B. Thesis.

This course provides enrollment for students engaged in thesis research and writing in construction science and management under the supervision of a thesis advisor. Activities include research design, data collection, analysis, and preparation of written thesis components. Enrollment may be maintained during periods of active research or writing. The course includes documentation of research findings in accordance with program requirements and is a required component of the master’s degree in construction management.

CSM 7199. Dissertation.

This course supports the completion of original, independent research in construction science and management under the direct supervision of the student’s PhD research advisor. Students engage in the development, execution, and documentation of doctoral-level research that contributes new knowledge to the construction management discipline. Continuous enrollment during long semesters ensures sustained scholarly progress, faculty mentorship, and academic oversight throughout the dissertation research and writing process. This course is a required component of the PhD with a major in construction management.

CSM 7299. Dissertation.

This course supports the completion of original, independent research in construction science and management under the direct supervision of the student’s PhD research advisor. Students engage in the development, execution, and documentation of doctoral-level research that contributes new knowledge to the construction management discipline. Continuous enrollment during long semesters ensures sustained scholarly progress, faculty mentorship, and academic oversight throughout the dissertation research and writing process. This course is a required component of the PhD with a major in construction management.

CSM 7300. Research Methods.

This course examines the research enterprise within construction management, focusing on the methodologies and procedures used to conduct systematic inquiry. Students analyze research problem formulation, literature review strategies, and the identification of research gaps relevant to construction systems and processes. The course evaluates qualitative and quantitative research designs, data collection methods, data management practices, and statistical techniques for analysis and interpretation. Additional topics include technical writing, proposal development, presentation of research findings, and publication processes. Emphasis is placed on methodological rigor, transparency, and reproducibility. Students evaluate research approaches and apply appropriate methods to support independent scholarly investigation.

CSM 7310. Leadership in the Construction Industry.

This course examines leadership and management frameworks used in construction organizations. Students analyze strategic planning, business planning, organizational theory, and competitive analysis as they apply to construction enterprises. Additional topics include risk management, financial analysis, human resource systems, management information systems, and professional codes of conduct. The course evaluates leadership theories and organizational decision-making models through case studies and applied analysis. Students assess how management structures influence organizational performance and project outcomes. Emphasis is placed on analyzing leadership approaches rather than prescribing specific practices.

CSM 7315. Emerging Construction Technologies.

This course examines emerging technologies influencing contemporary construction systems. Students analyze theoretical, practical, and strategic aspects of advanced construction technologies, including technological integration, information flow and impact on stakeholder operations. The course evaluates the integration of information technologies such as cyber-physical systems, artificial intelligence, 3D printing, and extended reality. Students assess technological capabilities, limitations, and implementation considerations within construction projects. Emphasis is placed on analyzing technological trends and their implications for construction processes, productivity, and project delivery.

CSM 7320. Advanced Productivity and Lean Construction.

This course examines production management principles associated with lean construction. Students analyze the origins of lean thinking and its application to construction project delivery systems. Topics include value identification, waste reduction frameworks, workflow reliability, and production planning methods. The course evaluates lean project delivery models and collaborative contracting approaches. Students apply analytical tools to assess production systems and project performance outcomes. Emphasis is placed on evaluating the applicability and limitations of lean methodologies within construction projects.

CSM 7325. Construction Risk Management.

This course examines data analytics methods used for decision-making in the construction industry. Students analyze data sources, data management practices, and analytical techniques applicable to construction systems. Topics include data collection, preprocessing, statistical analysis, predictive modeling, and data visualization. The course evaluates how analytical results are interpreted and applied to risk analysis and decision processes. Students assess data-driven approaches used in cost estimation, scheduling, safety analysis, and performance evaluation. Emphasis is placed on methodological rigor, data quality considerations, and the limitations of analytical models within construction project contexts.

CSM 7330. Constructability of Structures.

This course examines the design and constructability of major construction materials. Students analyze material properties, performance characteristics, and selection criteria relevant to construction projects. Topics include concrete, steel, wood, masonry, and emerging construction materials. The course evaluates how material choices influence constructability, cost, schedule, durability, and performance. Students assess material behavior through case studies and applied analysis. Emphasis is placed on evaluating material applications within construction systems, including fabrication methods, detailing considerations, and coordination between design and construction processes.

CSM 7380. Construction Externship.

This course provides students with supervised, hands-on experience in construction-related professional environments. Students apply theoretical knowledge and technical skills to real-world construction activities while gaining exposure to project coordination, site operations, safety practices, and professional communication. The externship emphasizes experiential learning through observation, participation, and guided reflection, enabling students to connect academic coursework with industry practices. This course supports career development by fostering practical competencies, professional responsibility, and an understanding of contemporary construction workflows and organizational structures.

CSM 7399. Dissertation.

This course supports the completion of original, independent research in construction science and management under the direct supervision of the student’s PhD research advisor. Students engage in the development, execution, and documentation of doctoral-level research that contributes new knowledge to the construction management discipline. Continuous enrollment during long semesters ensures sustained scholarly progress, faculty mentorship, and academic oversight throughout the dissertation research and writing process. This course is a required component of the PhD with a major in construction management.

CSM 7599. Dissertation.

This course supports the completion of original, independent research in construction science and management under the direct supervision of the student’s PhD research advisor. Students engage in the development, execution, and documentation of doctoral-level research that contributes new knowledge to the construction management discipline. Continuous enrollment during long semesters ensures sustained scholarly progress, faculty mentorship, and academic oversight throughout the dissertation research and writing process. This course is a required component of the PhD with a major in construction management.

CSM 7699. Dissertation.

This course supports the completion of original, independent research in construction science and management under the direct supervision of the student’s PhD research advisor. Students engage in the development, execution, and documentation of doctoral-level research that contributes new knowledge to the construction management discipline. Continuous enrollment during long semesters ensures sustained scholarly progress, faculty mentorship, and academic oversight throughout the dissertation research and writing process. This course is a required component of the PhD with a major in construction management.

CSM 7999. Dissertation.

This course supports the completion of original, independent research in construction science and management under the direct supervision of the student’s PhD research advisor. Students engage in the development, execution, and documentation of doctoral-level research that contributes new knowledge to the construction management discipline. Continuous enrollment during long semesters ensures sustained scholarly progress, faculty mentorship, and academic oversight throughout the dissertation research and writing process. This course is a required component of the PhD with a major in construction management.