Apr 30, 2024  
2017-2018 Graduate Catalog 
    
2017-2018 Graduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Construction Science and Management, MCSM


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Program Requirements


The Master of Construction Science and Management thesis-optional program provides students with a high level of skills and knowledge in the technical areas of construction project administration and control. Substantial emphasis is placed on advanced study in the field of business, in new and emerging techniques for construction project delivery systems, and in the administration of the construction firm.

The number of credit hours required for the MCSM degree varies according to each student’s undergraduate degree. For those who have the required undergraduate skills and knowledge, the program consists of 30 credit hours. In cases where the candidate does not have the necessary prerequisite skills and knowledge, additional coursework beyond the 30 credit hours is required. Each application is evaluated as to the needed additional coursework. Up to nine credits of approved recent graduate courses can be transferred into the program from another accredited institution.

This program is also available to off-campus students through the Office of Off-Campus, Distance and Continuing Education. Call 1-888-CLEMSON (1-888-253-6766) for more information.

Admission Requirements

  1. Applicants must demonstrate a high level of knowledge and understanding of the use and application of construction principles and technology required to be successful in the program, including core competencies of cost estimating, scheduling and project management. These core competencies may be met in whole or in part by having earned a bachelor’s degree in construction science, construction management, building construction, or a related area. Applicants from other disciplines may be admitted but may be required to remedy any deficiencies in necessary prerequisite skills and knowledge for the program through coursework, passing of the American Institute of Constructors Associate Constructor or Certified Professional Constructor certification examination or other means approved by the department.
  2. Acceptance must be granted by the Graduate School and the Department of Construction Science and Management. University acceptance is based on performance in previous undergraduate studies and a satisfactory score on the GRE. International students must also achieve a satisfactory score on the TOEFL/IELTS/PTE. In addition, acceptance by the department is based on performance in undergraduate studies, three letters of recommendation and acceptance by the department Graduate Admissions Committee.
  3. Each applicant must submit a detailed resume containing all educational qualifications and construction experience. At least one year of construction experience is preferred.

Requirements for Degree Candidacy

The Master of Construction Science and Management degree requires a minimum of 30 credit hours as detailed above. In cases where the candidate does not have the necessary prerequisite skills and knowledge for the program, he/she may be admitted but be required to remedy any deficiencies for the program through coursework, passing of the American Institute of Constructors Associate Constructor or Certified Professional Constructor certification examination or other means approved by the department.

Requirements for Awarding of a Degree


Thesis Option


A minimum of 30 credits is required. Up to nine credits may be transferred from other institutions approved by Clemson University.

The following courses are required:

Additional Requirements:


A thesis on a construction-related topic must be completed satisfactorily. Students must receive approval from their advisor prior to selecting the thesis option.

Performance on a final oral examination relating to the student’s thesis and program of study must be satisfactory.

Non-Thesis Option


A minimum of 30 credits is required. The courses listed below are required, and students select the remaining credits from department-approved elective courses. Up to nine credits may be transferred from other institutions approved by Clemson University.

Additional Requirements:


Performance on a written comprehensive examination covering the programs’s six core courses must be satisfactory.

Performance on a final oral examination relating to the program’s six core courses must be satisfactory if the student has not performed satisfactorily on the written comprehensive exam.

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