Construction Project Management from Coursera

Construction Project Management introduces learners to Project Initiation and Planning. Columbia University professor, Ibrahim Odeh, along with industry experts join together to provide a comprehensive overview of the construction industry. There are 10 modules that allow learners to become knowledgeable of construction management within the dynamic construction industry.

Professor Odeh teaches learners about the fundamentals of the Project Development Cycle while guest lecturers discuss Lean Project Delivery method and Lean Design Behaviors. Technological advances, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), will be introduced with real world examples of the uses of BIM during the Lifecycle of the Project. The course concludes with Professor Odeh discussing the importance of project planning and scheduling and an opportunity to develop a Work Breakdown Structure.

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

-Learn about construction management, including an understanding of the construction industry, the role of a project manager, construction contract types, and project delivery methods

-Explain the fundamental principles to establish Environment, Health and Safety in the construction industry

-Detail the principles and application of sustainability development in construction industry

-Summarize the work breakdown structure (WBS) and estimate the construction activity duration

What's inside

Syllabus

Course Overview

Welcome to Construction Project Initiation and Planning. Meet your Instructor, Dr. Ibrahim Odeh, and learn what will be covered in the Construction Management Specialization and, more specifically, in this course, Construction Project Initiation and Planning, the first of the specialization series.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Explores technological advances, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), which are highly relevant in industry

Taught by Columbia University professor Ibrahim Odeh, who is recognized for their work in project management

Develops knowledge of construction management within the dynamic construction industry

Strengthens an existing foundation for intermediate learners

Builds a strong foundation for beginners

May require learners to come in with some background knowledge first

Reviews summary

Foundational construction project management

According to learners, this course provides a solid and comprehensive foundation in construction project management, covering the project lifecycle from initiation to planning. Many students highlighted the value of insights from experienced guest speakers from leading companies, finding their real-world perspectives particularly beneficial. The course introduces relevant modern concepts like BIM and Lean delivery methods, which is seen as a positive. While the overall content is well-received for building a base understanding, some learners found the quizzes and exams quite challenging, occasionally feeling they required knowledge not directly covered in lectures. It is often described as best suited for beginners or those needing to formalize existing practical knowledge, potentially lacking depth for seasoned professionals.

May be introductory for experienced pros.

"As someone with prior experience, some parts felt like a good review rather than new material."

"Perfect course for those new to the construction management field."

"If you're already an experienced CM, you might find it a bit basic."

"Great for students or those transitioning into the role."

Covers BIM, Lean, and sustainability.

"Found the modules on BIM and Lean Project Delivery particularly relevant to current industry trends."

"The introduction to BIM and its applications was very useful."

"Appreciated the inclusion of sustainability and EHS topics."

"Covered important modern aspects like Lean methods."

Valuable real-world insights from experts.

"The guest speakers from AECOM, McKinsey, etc., provided invaluable insights from their experience."

"Hearing from industry professionals made the topics more relatable and practical."

"Appreciated the diverse perspectives offered by the guest lecturers."

"Their contribution added significant value to the course material."

Provides a strong basis in core concepts.

"This course is a great starting point for understanding construction project management."

"It lays a solid foundation covering all the key initial phases."

"I gained a clear understanding of the project development cycle and planning."

"Excellent overview of fundamental principles and methodologies."

Quizzes and exams can be difficult.

"Some quizzes felt tricky and required careful reading and review."

"The assessments were challenging but fair, pushing me to understand the material deeply."

"I had to re-watch lectures and review notes extensively for the exams."

"Quizzes did not always seem to align perfectly with the video content."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Construction Project Management with these activities:

Review schedule and cost estimation basics

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Reviewing some core concepts in cost estimating can help you understand the material covered in this course

Browse courses on Construction Planning

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Review critical path method network analysis
Review unit cost estimates and materials take-off

Review construction management concepts

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Review basic construction management concepts to refresh your knowledge and ensure you have a strong foundation for the course.

Browse courses on Construction Management

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Review notes and materials from previous courses or industry experience
Skim through the course syllabus and introductory materials
Attend any optional pre-course webinars or workshops

BIM for Beginners

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Gain familiarity with the basics of BIM through guided video tutorials.

Browse courses on BIM

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Introduce BIM concepts
Navigate a BIM software
Create basic models
Collaborate on a BIM project

Show all three activities

Career center

Learners who complete Construction Project Management will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Construction Manager

A Construction Manager is responsible for the planning, coordination, and execution of construction projects. This course is an excellent foundation for anyone looking to become a Construction Manager, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the construction industry, including project management, contract types, and delivery methods. Additionally, the course covers important topics such as safety, sustainability, and technology trends in construction, all of which are essential for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Manager

Project Manager

A Project Manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and executing projects. This course is a great option for those interested in becoming a Project Manager, as it provides a strong foundation in project management principles and practices. The course also covers topics such as risk management, stakeholder management, and communication, all of which are essential for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Estimator

An Estimator is responsible for estimating the cost of construction projects. This course can be helpful for those interested in becoming an Estimator, as it provides an overview of the construction industry, project management, and cost estimating. The course also covers topics such as risk analysis and value engineering, which are essential for success in this role.

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Scheduler

A Scheduler is responsible for planning and scheduling construction projects. This course can be helpful for those interested in becoming a Scheduler, as it provides a strong foundation in project management and scheduling. The course also covers topics such as resource allocation, critical path analysis, and earned value management, all of which are essential for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Scheduler

BIM Manager

A BIM Manager is responsible for managing building information models (BIM). This course can be helpful for those interested in becoming a BIM Manager, as it provides an overview of BIM and its applications in the construction industry. The course also covers topics such as BIM coordination, data management, and clash detection, all of which are essential for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for BIM Manager

Construction Engineer

A Construction Engineer is responsible for the design and construction of buildings and other structures. This course can be helpful for those interested in becoming a Construction Engineer, as it provides an overview of the construction industry, project management, and structural engineering. The course also covers topics such as building codes, materials science, and geotechnical engineering, all of which are essential for success in this role.

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Sustainability Manager

A Sustainability Manager is responsible for developing and implementing sustainability programs for construction projects. This course can be helpful for those interested in becoming a Sustainability Manager, as it provides an overview of sustainability in the construction industry. The course also covers topics such as green building design, LEED certification, and energy efficiency, all of which are essential for success in this role.

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Safety Manager

A Safety Manager is responsible for developing and implementing safety programs for construction projects. This course can be helpful for those interested in becoming a Safety Manager, as it provides an overview of safety in the construction industry. The course also covers topics such as risk assessment, hazard identification, and accident prevention, all of which are essential for success in this role.

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Architect

An Architect is responsible for the design of buildings and other structures. While this course does not provide a comprehensive education in architecture, it can be helpful for those interested in becoming an Architect, as it provides an overview of the construction industry and the design process. The course also covers topics such as building codes, materials science, and structural engineering, all of which are essential for success in this role.

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Engineer

An Engineer is responsible for the design and construction of buildings, bridges, roads, and other structures. While this course does not provide a comprehensive education in engineering, it can be helpful for those interested in becoming an Engineer, as it provides an overview of the construction industry and the engineering process. The course also covers topics such as building codes, materials science, and structural engineering, all of which are essential for success in this role.

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Quantity Surveyor

A Quantity Surveyor is responsible for estimating and managing the cost of construction projects. This course can be helpful for those interested in becoming a Quantity Surveyor, as it provides an overview of the construction industry, project management, and cost estimating. The course also covers topics such as risk analysis and value engineering, all of which are essential for success in this role.

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Real Estate Developer

A Real Estate Developer is responsible for the development of land and buildings. This course can be helpful for those interested in becoming a Real Estate Developer, as it provides an overview of the construction industry, project management, and real estate finance. The course also covers topics such as land use planning, zoning, and environmental regulations, all of which are essential for success in this role.

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Construction Consultant

A Construction Consultant provides advice and guidance to clients on construction projects. This course can be helpful for those interested in becoming a Construction Consultant, as it provides an overview of the construction industry, project management, and construction law. The course also covers topics such as risk management, dispute resolution, and quality control, all of which are essential for success in this role.

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Facilities Manager

A Facilities Manager is responsible for the operation and maintenance of buildings and other facilities. This course can be helpful for those interested in becoming a Facilities Manager, as it provides an overview of the construction industry, project management, and facilities management. The course also covers topics such as building systems, energy management, and preventive maintenance, all of which are essential for success in this role.

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Property Manager

A Property Manager is responsible for the management of residential and commercial properties. This course can be helpful for those interested in becoming a Property Manager, as it provides an overview of the construction industry, project management, and property management. The course also covers topics such as tenant relations, lease administration, and financial management, all of which are essential for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Property Manager