STARKVILLE, Miss. (WJTV) — Mississippi State University (MSU) is stepping up its commitment to the state’s growing building industry with a new Master of Science in Construction Management degree program, set to launch this fall.

Recently approved by the Mississippi Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL), the program will be housed within MSU’s Department of Building Construction Science — home to one of the region’s leading undergraduate construction programs. The new master’s track is Mississippi’s only graduate degree in construction management, filling a gap in advanced training for professionals in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) fields.

Students can choose from two pathways: a research track for those interested in advancing academic study and innovation in construction methods, or a professional track tailored to working industry professionals aiming to deepen their project management expertise and leadership skills.

According to MSU, students will have the flexibility to complete the program entirely online or through in-person courses at the Starkville campus. The first cohort begins classes in August, with applications open through August 1 via the MSU Graduate School.
The launch comes as Mississippi faces a strong demand for skilled project managers and construction leaders, with new infrastructure investments, industrial developments, and commercial building projects boosting job opportunities across the region.

University officials say the program is designed to strengthen the state’s talent pipeline and help local contractors and engineering firms stay competitive.

“With the construction industry evolving rapidly, employers are looking for advanced skills in management, sustainability, and project delivery. This program helps meet that demand while giving working professionals more flexibility to level up their careers,” faculty leaders in the Department of Building Construction Science shared.

Industry stakeholders also see the new degree as an opportunity to attract more students to stay and build careers in Mississippi rather than seeking advanced degrees out of state. By offering a flexible online option, the program opens doors for working professionals who want to continue learning without pausing their careers or relocating.

The curriculum will include courses in advanced construction management, sustainable building practices, integrated project delivery, legal issues in construction, and emerging trends like green building certifications and smart construction technology. Students in the research track will have opportunities to collaborate on funded research projects, contribute to industry studies, and present their work at regional and national conferences.

Workforce & Community Impact

‍The new degree also aligns with MSU’s mission to support economic development across Mississippi. Local contractors, architecture firms, and engineering companies have expressed strong interest in partnering with the university to provide internships, site visits, and guest lectures for students enrolled in the program.

In addition to classroom instruction, the program aims to foster connections between students and employers through MSU’s extensive alumni network and industry partnerships.

Prospective students can learn more about the curriculum, admission requirements, and financial aid opportunities on the MSU Graduate School website or by contacting the Department of Building Construction Science directly.

Originally reported by Tommy West in Yahoo News.