Construction Science

Construction science graduates manage the construction process. They coordinate the builders, machinery and materials to ensure that projects are completed on time and under budget. Housed in the College of Architecture, students in OU's Haskell & Irene Lemon Construction Science Division learn the communication skills and technical background needed to effectively manage a construction project. In addition to the construction science curriculum, students take architecture and business courses and work collaboratively on projects to give them an understanding and ability to effectively communicate with architects, engineers and designers. One of the divisions primary goals is to provide students with a collaborative education to help them develop leadership skills essential to success after graduation. Thanks largely in part to this unique education, our graduates are well prepared for work in the construction industry and are actively recruited by top employers. On average, construction science students have a 90 percent job placement rate upon graduation.

Construction science students typically have interests in:

• Design
• Planning
• Organization
• Management
• Decision making

High school preparation should include math and science such as analytical geometry and physics.

OU’s construction science program in College of Architecture maintains an international reputation and has graduates practicing all over the world. Alumni are eager and willing to help students make the leap from student to professional with internship and job opportunities. OU construction science is known for its outstanding faculty, award winning students, tight knit community and high job outlook upon graduation. The innovation and interdisciplinary approach to solving design problems only fosters creativity and imagination in students while working within a professional curriculum. 

There are numerous organizations construction science students can be a part of. Check them out:

• Construction Students Association
• Interior Design Student Association
• American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS)
• Freedom By Design
• National Organization of Minority Architecture Students
• Society of Urban Design Students
• Student Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects
• Student Planning Association

Construction Science student organizations

Construction science courses include:

• Cultures of Collaborating, Creating & Constructing – taken first semester with Dean Hans E. Butzer
• Materials & Methods
• Computers in Construction
• Sustainability
• Mechanical Systems
• Construction Surveying
• Construction Communications
• Electrical Systems
• Construction Safety
• Project Controls Management
• Structures
• Soils and Foundations
• Construction Science Capstone

Construction science students have the opportunity to study abroad through a variety of programs:

• Service Learning in Zambia
• Architecture and Design in the Eternal City In Rome
• Health Culture Design in Germany
• Design-Build in Dubai

General contractors
Architects
Material suppliers
Subcontractors
Developers
Oil companies
Entrepreneurs
Commercial construction companies

Visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ website to explore the median pay for jobs you can pursue with this degree. 

The Division of Construction Science is accredited by the American Council for Construction Education. A construction science student graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Science degree. A student can then choose to pursue a Master of Science in Construction Administration. Students may also minor in Architectural Studies or Interior Design.