Construction growth drives need for new U of I degree

To keep pace with increasing growth in the state's construction industry, the University of Idaho is offering a new Bachelor of Science in construction management and the built environment.

According to the Idaho Department of Labor, more than 17,000 housing units were added in 2025. The 2.1% growth rate was the fastest in the country. 

The new program is in conjunction with the College of Business and Economics, the 

College of Engineering, and the College of Art and Architecture. 

“Idaho is building a lot more than just housing, and construction firms are reporting difficulty filling positions for people who can manage these large projects,” said Lisa Victoravich, dean of the College of Business and Economics. “By bringing three colleges together, we can prepare our graduates to understand how decisions made at the drawing board, in the office and at the job site affect the success of the whole project.”

Coursework combines construction fundamentals with estimating costs, scheduling, contracts, purchasing, and business management. Students will learn to consider the needs of owners, architects, engineers, and contractors as they plan projects and resolve challenges.

They will also develop communication and team leadership skills and apply their knowledge through internships and projects involving multiple disciplines and industry partners. Students will gain experience with building information modeling, digital construction workflows, and emerging applications of artificial intelligence.   

“We need people who can understand the plans, work through the numbers and bring a team together when conditions change,” said Suzie Long, dean of the College of Engineering. “Connecting design, engineering and business gives students a foundation for the decisions they will face in the industry.”