Earn Your Construction Project Management Certificate Online

In any building project, efficient construction management serves as an important foundation for success. This is why experienced construction project managers are consistently in high demand, with many earning six-figure salaries for their expertise and dedication. This four-course online certificate program provides a comprehensive overview of construction project management principles and best practices. It is designed to expand your professional skill set and strengthen your resume.

Who is the Construction Project Management Certificate for?

This continuing education program is ideal for those currently planning and managing construction projects or those who aspiring to do so.  It is specifically tailored for construction professionals and administrators seeking to transition into project management. Past and current students include:

  • Contractors and subcontractors
  • Managers in specialized construction fields, such as carpentry or plumbing
  • Construction specialists, including estimators, schedulers, cost engineers, project control analysts and quantity surveyors
  • Risk management specialists
  • Real estate developers
  • Construction consultants and other industry trade professionals

Certificate Requirements

To earn the USD professional development certificate in construction project management, students are required to successfully complete the four required courses in this sequence with a final grade of C+ or better. For more details, please review the University of San Diego’s Professional and Continuing Education Certificate Benefits and Policies.

Schedule and Fees

Course Schedule and Enrollment Links
Four Required Courses plus One Optional Course
(8 Units Required for Certificate)
Duration
Start
Summer 2026 

Start
Fall 2026

Fee*
Fee*
w/ Bundle

PMP-X804F Project Management Fundamentals - Optional for Beginners
(1 Unit) (Outside the Certificate Track)

Register and begin
at anytime

Register and begin
at anytime

Register and begin
at anytime

$379

299
 

PMP-X805BD Introduction to Construction Project Management
(2 Units)

Online Fixed-Date
7 weeks

May 26 - Jul 13, 2026

Sep 7 - Oct 26, 2026

$679

$536

PMP-X806BD Construction Contract Administration
(2 Units)

Online Fixed-Date
7 weeks

Jul 14 - Aug 31, 2026

Oct 27 - Dec 14, 2026

$679

$536

PMP-X807BD Construction Project Execution and Documentation
(2 Units)

Online Fixed-Date
7 weeks

Sep 8 - Oct 26, 2026

Jan 18 - Mar 8, 2027

$679

$536

PMP-X808BD Construction Claims and Closeout Procedures
(2 Units)

Online Fixed-Date
7 weeks

Oct 27 - Dec 14, 2026

Mar 16 - May 3, 2027

$679

$536

 

One Time Certificate Fee
 
 
 
$75
$75
Total Certificate Cost (4 required courses)
 
 
  $2,791 $2,219
 All required courses are offered in Online Fixed-Date format .  *Schedule and Fees are subject to change.
 
   
   

Construction Project Management Program Learner Outcomes

Students who complete the Construction Project Management Certificate program will gain the skills and strategies needed to manage building projects effectively from inception to completion. Expected activities and learner outcomes include:

  • Reviewing tools, techniques and methods for managing project life cycles, stakeholder governance and social responsibility in the construction industry
  • Evaluating global advances in technology and society, and how they affect construction project management
  • Defining scope management and identify the common aspects of construction project management that create special scope challenges
  • Measuring project performance by utilizing Earned Value Management, estimating and forecasting
  • Mastering project procurement management processes
  • Anticipating health, safety, security and environment (HSSE) considerations that could negatively impact a project
  • Completing an in-depth review of financial and accounting management systems
  • Conducting project analysis and audits, creating detailed reports, and providing the expertise necessary to monitor and control project finances

Construction Project Management Program Curriculum

The University of San Diego’s Construction Project Management Certificate consists of the following four essential courses:

  1. Introduction to Construction Project Management 
  2. Construction Contract  Administration 
  3. Construction Project Execution and Documentation 
  4. Construction Claims and Closeout Procedures 

What Does a Construction Manager Do?

Construction project managers plan, coordinate, budget, and supervise construction projects from start to finish. They coordinate and oversee construction of residential, commercial and industrial structures, as well as infrastructure projects such as roads and bridges.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the typical duties of a construction project manager include:

  • Preparing cost estimates, budgets and work timetables
  • Interpreting and explaining contracts and technical information to other professionals
  • Reporting work progress and budget status to clients
  • Collaborating with architects, engineers and other construction specialists
  • Selecting subcontractors and scheduling their activities
  • Responding to work delays, emergencies and other unforeseen problems
  • Complying with legal requirements, building and safety codes, and other regulations

Construction project managers work closely architects, civil engineers, and trade workers such as electricians and carpenters. Depending on the project, they may also interact with lawyers, inspectors and local government officials. Frequently, they consult with clients during the design phase to refine plans and control costs.

Construction project managers may benefit from experience with certain software tools, such as cost-estimating and logistical software. Their goal is to ensure that projects are completed on time and on budget.

Benefits of Earning Your Construction Project Management Certificate

Acquiring this career-building expertise through the University of San Diego offers several distinct advantages:

  • Leading-edge curriculum from a nationally ranked university
  • Top-notch faculty who are experienced practitioners
  • Small class sizes providing personalized support
  • Convenient, flexible scheduling that allows you to complete work on your own time while meeting weekly deadlines
  • No application requirements for immediate enrollment

New Benefit for Certificate Completers! - For those students who have completed our certificate program, we are offering a free self-driven preparation course for the CSI certification. This prep course supports your pursuit of the CSI Construction Documents Technologist (CDT®) and Certified Construction Contract Administrator (CCCA®) credentials.  Register for the CSI Exam Prep course at any time after completing your Construction Project Management Certificate.

Job Market Career Outlook

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics  reports a median annual salary of $106,980 for construction managers, with the top 10% of earners exceeding $176,990. Employment in this field is projected to grow 9% through 2034, a rate significantly faster than the average for all occupations.

The Project Management Institute’s Job Growth and Talent Gap in Project Management report highlights a widening talent gap, forecasting a global need for millions of new project management professionals. In California, demand remains exceptionally strong, with a projected growth rate of nearly 20% for project management roles and consistently higher-than-average employment opportunities across the state.

Experienced Instructors

Our instructors are seasoned practitioners and subject matter experts, most of whom hold advanced degrees. They are dedicated to engaging every student in a stimulating, participative, and practical learning environment.

Dr. Tammy Good, PMP (Project Management Professional)

Dr. Good has over 30 years of experience in municipal engineering and construction management. She is a professional, creative and innovative individual who excels in challenging environments. She also currently serves as the Capital Improvement Plan Manager for the city of Pompano Beach, Florida.  Additionally, she has over 13 years of experience teaching project management and construction related courses for several colleges and universities in addition to the University of San Diego. She is experienced with several learning management platforms and has extensive experience in curriculum development. She earned her Doctorate of Business Administration, Global Organizational Leadership from Keiser University and her Master of Science, Construction Management from Florida International University. Her certifications include: PMP, CGC, Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, LEED, OSHA Authorized Trainer, and National Incident Management System - as well as several other certifications.

Testimonials

"The instructor, was amazing. They provided relevant and usable information in an entertaining and engaging style. I would recommend this class to anyone looking to expand their project management knowledge and skills.” — Marty Glaske, Gafcon, Inc.

"Our instructor was very knowledgeable and made me feel like they wee sincerely interested in seeing everyone in the class succeed. They offered great feedback and constructive criticism in a very non-confrontational way.” — Gerardo Diaz.

"Great instructor. Excellent job with the course."

Accreditation

The University of San Diego’s Division of Professional and Continuing Education is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges – Senior College and University Commission (WASC).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

What is project management?

The discipline of initiating, planning, executing, controlling and closing the work of a team to achieve specific goals and meet specific success criteria.

How do I enroll in a course?

You can start the certificate program by signing up for the courses and paying a one-time $45 certificate fee. You can also enroll by calling us at (619) 430-4147 or toll free at (888) 321-6658 during business hours, M-F, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (PST).

Do courses need to be taken in sequence?

While the recommendation is to take the courses in order - it is not required. 

How long are the courses?

Each of the four required courses are 7 weeks in duration.

What textbooks are required?

Although most course materials are shared through our online learning platform Canvas, any required textbooks are listed on each course page.

Will this program prepare me for the PMP Certification Exam?

No, students seeking to learn more about overall project management methodology are encouraged to take the Project Management Certificate program, which is intended to provide the practical project management skill sets. It is real-world based and led by practitioners; however, it is not a PMP exam prep, but an in-depth overview of PM methodology.

Additional Details

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