What degree do you need to be a contractor?

Question

Zippia Team · Accepted Answer

You need an associate's or bachelor's degree in construction management or business to be a contractor. In this highly competitive market, with limited work experience, a bachelor's degree is the best route toward becoming a contractor. A bachelor's degree program in construction management, for example, provides students with a comprehensive overview of both business management and structural engineering courses.

If you're looking to work as a contractor It's important to manage a construction project from beginning to end. Some key courses that will teach you these skills include:

Value analysis
Cost estimating
Site planning
Scheduling
Building codes
Construction technology
Construction methods

If an undergraduate degree is not for you, there is also the option of completing a certification. In fact, prospective contractors have three options when it comes to certification that includes:

The Certified Construction Manager (CCM) awarded by The Construction Management Association of America (CMAA)
The Associate Constructor (AC) for entry-level general contractors awarded by The American Institute of Constructors (AIC)
Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) for advanced contractors (AIC)

In addition to bonding and insurance, to work as a contractor in most states also requires a license, which varies widely by state, county, or even city. While some authorities mandate the passage of a licensing exam, others limit eligibility to contractors who work on projects above a stated cost threshold. In other cases, only license residential or commercial builders or HVAC, electrical, and plumbing contractors.