CM Graduate Studies

Many CM students ask, Should I pursue a graduate degree? The following insights should aid this discussion. But please note, every student’s needs and goals are different.

You should consider personally and prayerfully…

• Why would an advanced degree be useful? It costs money and time so identify the value proposition.
• Will a graduate degree help me with my career, my pay scale, my promotions (ceiling), my confidence, my ability to serve, a future career path pivot, etc.?
• Will now or later better serve my goals and resources? Timing matters a lot for many reasons.

Below are details regarding common graduate degrees pursued by CM students. Each opens unique doors. Each can be found at a variety of universities with differing costs and time requirements. Investigate possible universities, their testing and admissions requirements, and their placement rates and rankings before making a decision. It is also wise to investigate what support might be available from your employment. Many established companies will provide financial support for advanced degrees with some longevity requirements and other supplemental commitments by the receiver.

Master of Science: Construction Management (MS:CM)
The MS in Construction Engineering Management at BYU is a graduate degree for students who want to deepen their knowledge of construction and engineering management and prepare for more advanced professional responsibilities. At BYU, students build expertise through graduate coursework and focused work in an area of interest. The curriculum is designed to strengthen their analytical and creative problem-solving, research processes, leadership, teamwork, and written and oral communication skills. Students choose either a thesis, which develops and presents original research, or a project, which applies current knowledge to a practical problem. Both options require students to communicate their work and demonstrate professional judgment. The degree normally takes at least 18 months and can also provide a foundation for further graduate study such as a PhD.

Master of Real Estate Development (MRED)
Students who wish to pursue a career in real estate development generally see great benefits in seeking an MRED. Many real estate development companies recruit analysts from local MRED programs (and local finance undergrads). BYU CM undergrads commonly do not graduate with sufficient finance skill to qualify for many RE positions. Taking FIN201 and other undergrad courses can help. The University of Utah provides an excellent MRED experience for those wishing to work in Utah. They devote significant resources towards networking. They also treat their 2-year program as an executive program meaning all classes are later in the afternoon and evening. This can present challenges for family and church callings, but it does allow full-time work. The data is mixed on the immediate financial returns, meaning MRED grads do not necessarily earn much more than a CM undergrad, but the path to real estate development is clearer and does raise the ceiling on earnings and positions within companies focused on RE development.

Master of Architecture (MArch)
For those interested in becoming a licensed architect, an accredited BArch or MArch is critical. The CM major is a great backdrop for those wishing to work in interior design, landscape design, or architectural design. But design skills beyond the software used in CM are critical for a long-term career in architectural design. Architects are licensed professionals and must meet the requirements outlined in each state they practice [https://www.ncarb.org/become-architect] to earn licensure and certification. The difference between an architectural designer and an Architect primarily come from what projects they work on. For example, anyone can design homes and multifamily up to 3 attached units without a license as an architectural designer, but if you want to design commercial projects such as temples, churches, schools, etc. where the “public” assemble, you will need to, at a minimum work underneath, a licensed Architect or become one by seeking the right combination of education, experience, and examinations. If you are interested in getting certified to be an architectural designer, you may want to check out the American Institute of Building Designers https://aibd.org/. The University of Utah has an accredited program ranging from two to four years depending on emphasis. UVU has a BArch.

Master of Business Administration (MBA)
An MBA is a practical business degree. Most MBA programs are two years. They prepare you for business leadership with a heavy emphasis on networking. Many schools offer a traditional day-time program and an executive (evening) program which is more directed towards older students who are pivoting their career or wish to accelerate their potential for upper-management positions. Many entrepreneurs find the skills and knowledge built in an MBA program to be invaluable. BYU’s MBA is ranked highly with a choice of emphasis: global supply chain management (operations), human resources, marketing, entrepreneurship, or finance.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
A PhD is the degree needed for anyone wishing to pursue teaching and/or research at the college level. Programs range from three to six years, but time is mostly dependent on the student. A PhD requires significant commitment and initiative without significant oversight from an advisor. Once accepted, many schools will pay you to do research and work with professors. While Masters degrees tend to be fairly practical, a PhD tends to be very theoretical. A PhD graduate will have become an expert in a well-defined area of their choosing.