HPU graduate students at the University's Aloha Tower Marketplace campus.
HPU's new one-year, in-person Master of Science in Construction Management program has received strong industry support from Hawaiʻi industry leaders, and in June 2024 the program received full accreditation from WSCUC. This is the first and only Master of Science in Construction Management program of its kind in Hawaiʻi. Interest has surged into the hundreds, and enrolled students are eagerly anticipating the start date of August 2024.
The construction industry in Hawaiʻi has seen a significant boom, with approximately 7% growth in construction jobs from the first quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024 (dbedt.hawaii.gov). Nationally, construction managers represent 5-10% of the industry, translating to roughly 182 new construction manager jobs added in Hawaiʻi alone last year (bls.gov). Looking ahead, the job outlook for construction managers is promising, with a projected 5% growth from 2022 to 2032—nearly double the average growth rate for all other occupations (bls.gov).
“As a professional engineer and certified project management professional with experience within the construction industry, I’m happy to see our Master of Science in Construction Management program addressing the evolving needs of Hawaiʻi's construction industry,” said HPU Construction Management Program Director and Assistant Professor Charles Chen, Ph.D. “This curriculum integrates advanced technical knowledge with practical skills, preparing students for leadership roles both locally and globally. By blending industry best practices with the collaborative spirit of our islands, we're equipping the next generation of construction managers to tackle complex challenges and drive innovation in our field.”
The General Contractors Association of Hawaiʻi Construction Management Program offers the master’s degree in construction management at HPU. The program trains graduates with the skills needed to advance within this highly lucrative industry. Skills gained in the graduate program can lead to construction roles in various sectors, from residential to commercial. Students benefit from industry expertise and a curriculum aligned with the American Council for Construction Education's accreditation standards.
The impact of the program extends beyond education; it also offers tangible benefits in the job market.
According to industry data, holding a master’s degree can lead to a 10-25% salary increase compared to peers with only an undergraduate degree. For construction managers in Hawaiʻi, this could translate to an annual salary boost from the median $140,000 to as much as $176,000 with a master’s degree (salary.com, salary.com).
With roles such as senior project manager, director of construction, and consultancy positions often offering higher pay scales and entry-level management opportunities, the value of advanced education is clear.
The HPU program offers a unique and comprehensive curriculum through ten in-person courses, including nine core classes and a final capstone project. Students dive into advanced topics such as construction project management, cost estimating, construction law, sustainable practices, and innovative technologies. They can choose between concentrations in business administration or advanced project management.
Graduates gain specialized skills in managing construction projects from planning to execution, including advanced techniques in scheduling, cost estimation, risk management, and resource allocation. They also develop proficiency in interpreting construction documents, understanding legal and ethical aspects, and applying sustainable practices. The program fosters critical thinking, effective communication, leadership, and teamwork abilities, with practical experience available through a supervised internship for those in the advanced project management concentration.
“Given my experience in the construction industry, I’m very excited about the launch of Hawaiʻi Pacific University's Master of Science in Construction Management program. This initiative will provide critical training to future leaders in our field, equipping them with advanced skills and practical experience,” said HPU Board of Trustees Chair Lance Wilhelm. “By addressing the evolving needs of Hawaiʻi's construction sector, the program promises to enhance the quality of projects across the state and contribute to the broader community. It represents a significant step forward in ensuring that our local industry remains at the forefront of innovation and excellence.”
For more information and to apply today for the fall 2024 term, click here.
