How To Get a Professional Certificate in Construction Estimating
The Professional Certificate in Construction Estimating is an excellent way to learn the principles of construction estimating and bidding in the construction industry and get started in your career
The Professional Certificate in Construction Estimating is an excellent way to learn the principles of construction estimating and bidding in the construction industry and get started in a career as a Construction Estimator.
Construction Estimating is an attractive career choice as jobs have higher than average earnings and, there is a positive projected growth in this field thus, offering relative employment security.
Read on to find out more about the certificate, the entrance requirements, and the courses students will learn along the way to getting the Professional Certificate in Construction Estimating.
Entrance Requirements
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov), employers of construction estimators tend to prefer applicants with relevant bachelor's degrees, such as in Construction Management or Engineering. However, a bachelor's degree is not essential. Work experience can be taken into consideration. There are no entrance exams required, but an understanding of the construction industry is advisable and a strong Mathematical aptitude is essential.
Course Format
A Professional Certificate in Construction Estimating can be earned through universities and colleges, including the American Society of Professional Estimators and various State Universities. The Professional Certificate in Construction Estimating can be completed in a much shorter time than an academic degree. Courses can be completed in under three months, and the certificate can be earned anywhere from three months up to two years.
Courses may be online, in-person or a hybrid model. Students will meet for classes at times scheduled to be compatible with other work commitments. This is an ideal option for candidates already working in the construction industry and those wishing to upskill and advance their careers. Online courses offer students the opportunity to collaborate and discuss industry topics and challenges through an online bulletin board in addition to online learning. With this format, although students will be completing the course remotely, they still benefit from a shared learning experience and insight from their peers.
To apply, students enroll online, complete the registration process and pay for each course they wish to take. Students can expect to pay approximately $650 per course, or $3,600 for the certificate, plus textbooks and supporting materials.
Course Content
To earn a professional certificate in construction estimating students are generally required to receive a passing grade in five of the six courses. Courses may vary per institute. However, topics commonly include an Introduction to Construction Estimating, Essential Math, Estimating and Bidding, Construction Blueprint Reading, and Construction Materials and Processes. Each class is ten weeks in duration. On average, a student can expect to spend 3-6 hours per week/per class.
● Introduction to Construction Estimating
In this course, students will study the different types of estimates and learn the basic principles of construction estimating. They will learn how to organize an estimating document. They will also study materials, pricing methods and costs, quantity take-off techniques, and how to adjust the estimate for variable factors. Students will learn how to determine profit, mark-ups and overall construction costs. This course will provide a foundation of knowledge that the student can draw on while estimating virtually any individual trade or project type in their Construction Estimating career.
● Essential Math
This course will teach students the necessary applied mathematical skills Construction Estimators use daily in their jobs. Construction Estimating students must understand these core mathematical principles and put them into practice and application in the estimating and bidding process.
● Estimating and Bidding, 1 and 2
In the Estimating and Bidding courses, students will learn hands-on estimating procedures and problem-solving techniques. These skills are critical for any future Construction Estimator and it is essential to get them right. An incorrect estimate can lead to reduced profits, harming the business. Incorrect estimates can also mean overcharging and ultimately losing clients.
● Construction Blueprint Reading
Students in the Construction Blueprint Reading course will be introduced to blueprint reading and common construction methods and principles. Students will learn how to use construction drawings and will be taught to understand the relevant legal concepts, building and planning codes, and statutes that underpin the construction process.
● Construction Materials and Processes
In the Construction Materials and Processes course, students learn how to estimate in a commercial environment, calculating unit costs,labour, equipment, and material costs. Students will learn to examine the materials used in a variety of structures including commercial, and residential buildings, and how to correctly use industry terminology. By the end of the course, students will be able to determine material quantities and unit costs for a complete project.
Qualification
Once the student has completed the required courses with a passing grade, they will be awarded the Professional Certificate in Construction Estimating.
Qualified Construction Estimators can apply for Construction Estimator jobs and help clients with the essential preconstruction stage of their building project.