General Contractor: Online Schools and Courses
As a general contractor, you'll coordinate residential and commercial construction projects. You'll usually subcontract out certain portions of the work to specialty contractors. Construction courses are available online, so read on for further information on what you need to get started.
What You Need to Know
Prospective general contractors can pursue degrees at schools accredited by the American Council for Construction Education at the associate's, bachelor's and master's levels. Over the course of their studies, they will complete work both over the internet and in-person through internships.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Online</b></td><td>While online programs are available, they may require in-person internships</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Degrees</b></td><td>Construction Management</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Classes</b></td><td>Construction and Safety Management, Cost Analysis and Estimation, Bidding, Building Materials and Project Scheduling</td></tr>
</table><h3 id="section---WhatProgramsCanIEnrollInToBecomeAGeneralContractor">What Programs Can I Enroll in to Become a General Contractor?</h3><p>You can enroll in an online construction management program. Construction management programs are available online at the associate's, bachelor's and master's degree levels. Undergraduate and graduate certificate programs are also available. Coursework could include construction and safety management, cost analysis and estimation, bidding, building materials and project scheduling.
</p><p>Other coursework in construction management could include:
</p><ul><li>Architectural Graphics
</li><li>Environmental Control Systems
</li><li>Industrial Supervision
</li><li>Structural Analysis and Design
</li><li>Fundamentals of Construction Management
</li></ul><h3 id="section---WillIParticipateInAnyHandsOnActivities">Will I Participate in Any Hands-On Activities?</h3><p>In some programs, you'll need to complete a capstone course and an internship. In the capstone course, you might work to develop a real construction project, a business plan or both. The internship will probably focus on construction technology, residential land acquisition and development, building materials, land use codes and regulations, and project management.
</p><p>Although not quite hands-on, you may be able to participate in live video chats with industry professionals, depending on the program. You can observe them as well as ask them any questions you might have about construction work.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatTechnicalRequirementsShouldIBePreparedToMeet">What Technical Requirements Should I Be Prepared to Meet?</h3><p>You might need a cable or DSL Internet connection and the latest Windows operating systems, depending on the program's requirements. You may also need Microsoft Office Professional and an active e-mail account. Before beginning any of your online classes, it may be recommended that you complete an online orientation course that will describe the procedures you are to follow for taking online courses.
</p><h3 id="section---HowDoIDecideOnASchool">How Do I Decide on a School?</h3><p>You should look for a program that's accredited by the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE). The ACCE is acknowledged by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation as the accrediting body for 2-year and 4-year programs in construction. ACCE-accreditation tells potential employers that the degree you have earned meets the standards and criteria necessary for success in the construction industry.
</p><p>Some schools that offer construction management programs include:
</p><ul><li>New Jersey Institute of Technology
</li><li>University of Houston
</li><li>Ashworth College
</li><li>Colorado State University
</li><li>Indiana State University</li></ul>