South College Knoxville introduces construction management programs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 21, 2026

South College Knoxville has launched new Construction Management programs at the associate and bachelor’s degree levels that can be completed in a hybrid format. The program focuses on the management and administration of construction projects.

Students can enroll now in a rapidly growing field with consistent demand for skilled professionals who understand construction project management, including estimating, scheduling, construction operations, contracts, cost control, leadership and sustainability.

“As the region’s population grows, construction continues to expand across Knoxville,” Program Director Jeffrey Burns said. “Construction managers lead projects ranging from residential developments to commercial and institutional construction. This program is well suited for high school graduates, veterans, construction professionals and tradespeople looking to expand their knowledge and advance their professional opportunities.”

Burns is a Marine veteran who began his civilian career in real estate appraisals before identifying strong opportunities in construction management. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Construction Management from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and a master’s degree in Construction Management from Louisiana State University. He is also pursuing a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership.

Burns noted that the bachelor’s degree curriculum is management-focused, with an emphasis on vertical construction.

Students may start with an associate degree, then either seek opportunities to enter the workforce or continue on to earn a bachelor’s degree.

“A Bachelor of Science can open bigger doors in the construction field,” said Neil Heatherly, president of South College Knoxville. “We are intentional about adding programs that address student and employer demand. The launch of this new program meets a need not only in our region, but also across the country.”

The program is designed to teach the technical and management expertise needed to lead complex construction projects, including current industry software, emerging technologies and best practices. Students will study construction materials, equipment and systems; documents and drawings; planning and project management; estimating and financial management; safety, codes and risk management; facilities and operations management; and sustainable practices.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), careers as a construction manager are expected to grow by 9% across the country from 2024 to 2034 with median pay at $106,100 per year or $51.43 per hour for a bachelor’s degree level of education.

Visit south.edu/program/bachelor-of-science-in-construction-management or call admissions at 865-214-6020 for additional information.

South College offers more than 150 academic programs and concentrations at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta and Marietta, Georgia; Columbus, Ohio; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Dallas, Texas; and Orlando, Florida, as well as Online and Competency-Based Education (CBE).

To learn more about South College, visit south.edu.

About South College

South College serves more than 20,000 students and is proud of its more than 25,000 graduates. The institution offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta and Marietta, Georgia; Columbus, Ohio; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Dallas, Texas; and Orlando, Florida, as well as Online and CBE. South College focuses on ensuring high standards and quality educational offerings, maintaining multiple authorizations and accreditations.

South College’s programs span diverse fields such as business, criminal justice, education, dental hygiene/assisting, diagnostic medical sonography, nursing, occupational therapy, paralegal studies, physical therapy, radiography, respiratory therapy, physician assistant studies, pharmacy and surgical technology. The institution is dedicated to preparing students with the skills and knowledge needed for the professional opportunities ahead of them. For more information, visit south.edu.