Program History

The 60s and 70s

Ferris State University has offered construction-related education for over 40 years.  The current construction programs grew from initial associate degree level offerings of Architectural Technology 1954 and Surveying Technology in 1958.  Construction Engineering Technology was added in 1960 and Building Construction Technology in 1968.  The first Bachelor of Science was added in 1973 in the area of Surveying (now Survey Engineering).

The 80s

The Bachelor of Science in Construction Management (BSCM) degree program began in the fall quarter of the 1981-1982 academic year.  It was originally designed as an upper division sequence (third and fourth year) leading to the Bachelor of Science Degree for graduates of the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree programs in Architectural Technology, Construction Engineering Technology and Building Construction Technology.

Construction Management courses were first offered to nontraditional students (typically employed adults) at the Ferris State University Applied Technology Center (ATC) in Grand Rapids, Michigan, during the 1989-1990 academic year.  Courses were offered in the evening to allow these students an opportunity to pursue a BSCM.

The 90s and Beyond

The fall of 1993 saw Ferris State University switch from quarters to semesters.  At that time, a new four-year BSCM was instituted for incoming freshmen committed to the four-year degree and the Construction Engineering Technology program became the Civil Engineering Technology (CET) program.

In the fall 1996, the curriculum was revised to create two distinct tracks:  Commercial/Industrial and Highway/Bridge.  All three construction programs (BCT, CET, and CM) evolved to their current state.

Today, the two AAS programs share a common first year sequence of coursework.  During the second year, the two programs focus on their respective areas.  The two AAS programs form the foundation of the first two years for the BSCM.  The move from Associate to Bachelor program is seamless.

The construction programs provide outstanding employees for the industry.  And as the needs of the industry change, so shall the program curriculum.  As an example, the need for qualified construction professionals with a knowledge of industrial applications in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems is strong.  In response to these needs, the program is expanding its offerings by phasing in a newly-designed track in this area starting with the fall 2002 semester.

Students receiving an Associate Degree in Architectural Technology can transfer into the BSCM program and complete their program requirements in five more semesters, picking up essential classes from the first two years in the construction programs with just one extra semester of work.

Two certificate programs in construction, based on BS courses, are now offered at the ATC.  All ATC courses are taught by regular program faculty.

Ferris Means Success

Many students entering college uncertain of their career path and concerned for their ability to successfully complete a two-year college program are surprised by their success.  With the help of an outstanding faculty and support staff, many students entering the programs today continue on for their four-year degree.

The faculty at Ferris State University is committed to teaching.  While publications and research are never discouraged, the mission of every faculty member is to provide each student with the opportunity for a high-quality education.