Letter from The Chair
Dr. Maged Malek
Chair, Department of Building Construction Management
The BCM program is accredited by the American Council for Construction Education, and provides its graduates with the well-rounded education needed to be a future leader in the construction industry.
The construction industry represents a major sector in the US economy. It provides 5.5% of total labor-workforce. It brings to the economy a $1.17 trillion of construction assets that was put in place by April 2007. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports an expectation of excellent employment opportunities for construction managers by 2014. This figure is triggered by an unprecedented need for qualified construction professionals. To respond to this need and to meet the industry demand an MBA with a construction concentration was initiated.
The primary mission of our University and this construction program is ìTeaching First.î Research and scholarly activities are also integral parts of our pedagogical mission. At the University of North Florida, construction management students will find open doors to a dedicated and diverse faculty who are well-educated yet grounded in the practical aspects of "real world" contracting, engineering, and architecture.
Industry partners and alumni continue support our BCM program through course and track sponsorships, advisory boards, and active participation in our career fairs. This invaluable support and interaction, coupled with our excellent students, enables our program to enjoy a high placement rate. Through a process that begins in the senior year and ends just before graduation, our students experience a recruitment rate that borders on the 100% mark.
Our students learn not only in classrooms and laboratories but also in the variety of professional related opportunities, which make our program truly unique. Our student professional organization facilitates networking between students and our construction industry partners. Opportunities abound for students to hone their skills by participating in industry sponsored regional and national student competitions.
Let me encourage you to take some time to explore our website and learn about the curriculum, activities, faculty, and students at the University of North Florida where success abounds.