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Background Image Alternative Text: Building Construction Science student drills on tiny house project on second floor
Background Image Alternative Text: Close up of wooded frame model

Overview

The Department of Building Construction Science at Mississippi State University is designed to prepare students for careers in construction and construction-related fields. The studio-based program is one of just two programs of its kind in the nation, and it is accredited by the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE).

Students will graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree and will be able to manage construction projects and the business of construction. They are expected to be decision makers and managers in their work environment. The department consistently has a 99% employment rate, with the other 1% continuing with graduate studies.

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Background Image Alternative Text: Philip Christian, BCS student at MSU, stands next to his project board for the Brasfield and Gorrie Interdisciplinary project

Curriculum

Students in the department solve problems as construction professionals in a simulated office environment called a “studio.” In studio, students are challenged to integrate classroom knowledge and skills to solve problems on construction projects. Coursework includes collaborative team projects, hands-on building projects, construction site visits and tours, and integrated cross-disciplinary work with design students in architecture and interior design. Practicing construction professionals are frequent visitors to the studios and participate in student project reviews each semester. 

Students study a general foundation of mathematics, science, and business. Construction-specific courses include construction systems, building technology, structures, materials and methods of construction, estimating, scheduling, health and safety, construction and project management, financial management, and construction law. 

Students learn how to use industry-standard computer software and use building information modeling (BIM) through all four years of the curriculum. 

Full curriculum requirements Courses & descriptions

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Admissions
Competitive

Admission to the Department of Building Construction Science is competitive. Prospective students are encouraged to tour the program's facilities to be introduced to the program and talk with students and faculty.

How to Apply to Mississippi State University Transfer Requirements

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Outstanding Students
Scholarships

In its commitment to recognize outstanding students whose academic credentials confirm their potential for success, Mississippi State University offers scholarships to students with outstanding ACT scores and to National Merit and National Achievement semifinalists and finalists. For more information on MSU scholarships please contact the Office of Admissions and Scholarships.

Scholarships for Incoming Freshmen Scholarships for Transfer Students


Each year, the Mississippi State University Department of Building Construction Science also recognizes student achievement through scholarships and annual awards. These monetary awards are made possible by friends and alumni of the program and are awarded on the basis of financial need, academic standing, and overall excellence. 

Building Construction Science-Specific Scholarships

Affordable
Tuition and Fees

Mississippi State University’s affordable tuition provides an excellent return on your investment, combining competitive costs with the best academics, research, student life, and career preparation.

Tuition at Mississippi State University

The Department of Building Construction Science has some additional fees for materials, field trips, and other items that enhance our students’ education. The program strives to be able to offer comparatively low lab fees thanks to support from alumni and friends.


Computer Requirements

Students also need to purchase a variety of tools and materials to help them succeed in their studio coursework.

Computer Requirements

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Student Life
Personal growth and professional development

Studio learning is a unique experience, and the Mississippi State University Department of Building Construction Science provides a supportive environment for personal growth and professional development. 

Life As A Student

Life After Graduation

Our alumni are working across the nation and world in a wide variety of careers. A few career possibilities with a Bachelor of Science degree in building construction science:

Bachelor of Science degree in building construction science

business development manager • chief estimator • construction company owner • director of pre-construction • field engineer • general superintendent • inspector • MEP Coordinator • project engineer • project executive • project manager • project scheduler • project safety manager • punch list manager • quality control manager • site safety manag

Our
Mission

By means of a problem-based learning andragogy that uses case studies, precedents, and the integration of multiple subject areas, the Department of Building Construction Science will arm graduates with a clearly defined management skill set as they prepare for careers in construction or construction-related fields where effective decision making, problem solving, and multiple forms and levels of management are required.

Background Image Alternative Text: Architecture and construction students in the design-build Collaborative Studio at Mississippi State University. Students are hammering and working outside of Howell Building, Starkville, on a project.

Our
Vision and Values

Leadership in innovative construction education.

  • Mutual respect
  • Honesty
  • Integrity
  • Excellence
  • Democracy
  • Accountability
  • Innovation
  • Equity
Background Image Alternative Text: BCS outside tiny home construction project