February 07, 2011

SAIT Polytechnic (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology) is launching a new degree this fall that will prepare graduates to accelerate their entry into project management within Canada’s lucrative construction industry. SAIT’s new Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Project Management (BSc-CPM) is the first of its kind in Canada. It will launch in September with a cohort of 32 students.

“We’re very excited about this program, and so is the construction industry,” said Gord Nixon, SAIT’s VP Academic. “Construction project managers require leadership ability, a broad range of management skills and knowledge of a number of core disciplines within the industry. Traditionally, they have been the product of considerable experience rather than a disciplined, focused training program. The availability of this degree program provides a fast-lane to those interested in careers in construction project management.”

The four-year program is based on extensive research and consultation with industry which has heavily influenced course content. The program will apply theory, immersive learning and technological training to address the scientific management of construction projects.

“The construction industry employs close to one million Canadians and, in Alberta alone, there are more than 900 construction projects with an estimated value of $182 billion currently proposed or underway,” said Nixon. “Skilled individuals are needed to manage growth and this new degree helps to address that.”

Anticipated entry-level opportunities for graduates include Assistant Construction Manager, Assistant Project Manager, Site Supervisor, Construction Inspector, Project Coordinator, Estimator, and Assistant Facilities Manager. Graduates will also be well-positioned to pursue graduate-level credentials in the construction project management domain at universities in Canada and internationally.

“Construction project management is a high-demand field that includes the design, tender and management of facilities; the budgeting, planning and scheduling of project activities; and the safe and efficient management of employees, contractors, equipment and materials,” said Larry Rosia, Dean of SAIT’s School of Construction. “Ultimately, construction project managers are responsible for every aspect of their projects.”

Applications for SAIT’s Bachelor of Science in Construction Project Management are now being accepted for Fall 2011. CLICK HERE for more information.

Left to right in photo: Gord Nixon, VP Academic, SAIT Polytechnic; Larry Rosia, Dean, SAIT Polytechnic’s School of Construction; Todd Poulsen, VP Calgary Construction Association; Faisal Arain, Academic Chair, Construction Project Management, SAIT Polytechnic’s School of Construction.