From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.
Why Master of Construction Management?
From housing shortages to urbanisation and climate change – the construction industry intersects with some of the world’s great challenges. It’s a dynamic and fast-growing sector, vital to both the Australian and global economies. As population growth fuels demand for new roads, power plants, hospitals, shopping centres and more, the need for skilled construction professionals is also on the rise.
With a Master of Construction Management, you’ll be ready for a vibrant career overseeing diverse projects. From residential to large scale developments, discover how sustainable practices can help minimise environmental impact. Bring ideas and infrastructure to life, creating essential buildings and shaping the built environment to benefit communities and stimulate economic growth.
Overview
Our Master of Construction Management prepares you to navigate the constantly evolving landscape of the construction industry and to oversee projects from start to finish – ensuring they are completed on-time, within budget and to a high quality.
Influenced by latest industry developments, Adelaide University’s degree emphasises sustainability and modern construction techniques.
The degree also has a strong focus on technological advancements and practices. Build skills across a range of digital technologies and professional software programs, including Autodesk Revit, MS Project, CostX, Gabi, Navisworks and Synchro Pro, so you’re ready to launch straight into your future career.
With multidisciplinary courses and opportunities for industry placements and research, you’ll gain strong critical thinking skills adaptable to a variety of roles across residential, commercial and infrastructure sectors.
Key features
Venture beyond the classroom with site visits and industry placements.- Develop transferrable skills to lead projects across residential, commercial and infrastructure sectors.
- Access digital design and construction labs and collaborative teaching spaces.
- Build diverse skills in technical, managerial, economic and legal construction issues.
- Co-designed and taught by leading industry professionals.
What you'll learn
The Master of Construction Management is a comprehensive degree spanning all the scientific, technical, managerial, economic and legal competencies required to succeed in the construction sector. Beyond technical expertise and an understanding of regulatory compliance and local building codes, you’ll develop practical skills in communication, project management and teamwork – preparing you for collaborative work across diverse construction environments.
In first year, you’ll explore the fundamental principles of sustainable construction, focusing on safety protocols, procurement practices and quantity surveying techniques. Gain insight into common building materials and structures, while being exposed to construction law, regulations and dispute resolution techniques. You’ll study professional ethics, project scheduling, quality control and risk management, alongside essential topics in cost planning and business management.
Your second year introduces you to cutting-edge digital design and construction methodologies – exploring concepts such as 3D, 4D, and 5D modelling to aid project visualisation, scheduling and cost estimation. You’ll deepen your understanding of contract administration and will develop expertise in building services and environmental systems, including HVAC, mechanical, electrical and fire safety systems.
Dive deeper into an area of interest with a research dissertation and undertake an internship to gain practical industry experience. Across the degree, elective courses from related fields including architecture, property and project management complement the core curriculum and provide a holistic education tailored to your career aspirations.
What courses you'll study
Complete 96 units comprising:
- 78 units for all Core courses, and
- 18 units for Electives
Complete 78 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Advanced Construction Contract Administration
|
Course code
BLDG4004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Construction Management and Technology 1
|
Course code
BLDG5000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Measurement
|
Course code
BLDG5001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Building Materials and Structures
|
Course code
BLDG5002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Cost Planning and Management
|
Course code
BLDG5003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Construction Management and Technology 2
|
Course code
BLDG5004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Construction Contract Management
|
Course code
BLDG5005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Construction Management Research Methods M
|
Course code
BLDG5007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Construction Management Research Dissertation A
|
Course code
BLDG6000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Building Services and Environment
|
Course code
BLDG6002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Construction Management Research Dissertation B
|
Course code
BLDG6003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Construction Technologies
|
Course code
BLDG6800
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Digital Design and Construction
|
Course code
BLDG6801
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
Career options for construction management graduates are many and varied. You might supervise large construction teams in the building of a new hospital, ensuring project milestones are met. Or you may find new ways to reduce energy consumption in residential developments. You might manage site safety, ensuring optimal working conditions for contractors, or become an estimator and calculate crucial costings to ensure a project’s financial viability.
Other roles may include:
- Site manager
- Project coordinator
- Building surveyor
- Quantity surveyor
- Estimator
- Construction planner
- Contract administrator.
Industry trends
Employment across the construction industry has increased nationwide by almost 10% over the past five years and is expected to have an annual growth rate of 5.8% over the next five (2024, labourmarketinsights.gov.au).
To improve housing supply nationally, the Australian Government has set a target of 1.2 million homes built by 2029. Meanwhile, there is a national shortage of project managers, estimators and quantity surveyors in every Australian state and territory (2023, jobsandskills.gov.au) – meaning job prospects in the construction field are very strong.
Accreditation
Adelaide University is working through relevant approvals for program accreditation ahead of students commencing at the institution in 2026.
How to apply
FAQs
Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
