Top 10 Construction Administrator Certifications

Certifications are important for a construction administrator in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and expertise that employers are looking for. A certification shows potential employers that the individual has the necessary qualifications to perform the job effectively, efficiently, and safely. It also demonstrates an understanding of industry standards and regulations, as well as an ability to work with other professionals in a collaborative manner. Certifications can be used to set an applicant apart from others vying for the same position, providing them with a competitive edge when applying for jobs. Additionally, certifications can provide opportunities for continuing education and professional development, helping construction administrators stay current on industry trends and best practices.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Construction Administrators and explain how they can help to advance a Construction Administrator's career.

What are Construction Administrator Certifications?

Construction administrator certification is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the field of construction administration. This certification is awarded by the American Council for Construction Administration (ACCA) and requires completion of an accredited education program, a minimum number of years working in the field, and passing a comprehensive exam. The certification is intended to demonstrate professional competence to employers, clients, and other stakeholders.

The benefits of receiving construction administrator certification include recognition as an expert in the field, increased access to job opportunities, higher salaries, and more attractive career advancement prospects. It also serves as a mark of distinction for those who are serious about their craft. Additionally, it can open up doors to leadership positions within organizations or serve as a platform for consulting work. Furthermore, ACCA offers continuing education resources and networking opportunities which may be beneficial for those seeking to stay abreast of changes and updates in the industry.

Pro Tip: When considering a construction administrator certification, look for programs that provide an accredited qualification. This will ensure that your certification is recognized by potential employers and will give you the best chance of securing a job in the field.

Related: What does a Construction Administrator do?

Top 10 Construction Administrator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Construction Administrators today.

1. Construction Management Professional (CMP) Certification

Construction Management Professional (CMP) Certification is a professional certification offered by the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, experience and commitment to the construction management profession. The CMP certification program consists of four parts: education, experience, examination, and continuing education.

The CMP certification process typically takes six months to complete. The first step is to meet the education requirements. This includes completing an accredited construction management degree or having a combination of at least five years of experience in construction management and/or related fields. Once these requirements are met, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as project planning, scheduling, cost estimating, contract administration, and risk management. After passing the exam, applicants must demonstrate their commitment to professional development by completing at least 24 hours of approved continuing education courses every two years.

In order to obtain the CMP certification, applicants must submit an application along with all required documents and fees. The application fee is $225 for CMAA members and $325 for non-members. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the exam or obtaining continuing education credits depending on which provider you choose.

Overall, obtaining CMP certification can be a valuable asset for those looking to advance their career in construction management. It demonstrates a commitment to professionalism and provides recognition from peers and employers alike.

2. Certified Construction Manager (CCM) Certification

Certified Construction Manager (CCM) is a professional certification offered by the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA). It is designed to recognize professionals in the construction industry who have achieved a high level of competency and professionalism. The CCM certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, experience, and commitment to the highest standards of construction management.

To be eligible for the CCM certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience in construction management, including two years in a leadership role. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as project planning and scheduling, cost control, risk management, contracts and legal issues, safety and quality assurance, communications and leadership.

The process of obtaining the CCM certification typically takes six months to one year depending on individual circumstances. Applicants must first submit an application for review by CMAA's Certification Board. Once approved, applicants are required to take an online exam which consists of 200 multiple choice questions covering all areas of construction management. After passing the exam with a score of 70% or higher, applicants must complete an ethics course and submit three letters of recommendation from industry professionals verifying their qualifications for the certification.

The cost for obtaining the CCM certification varies depending on whether you are already a CMAA member or not. For non-members it costs $500 for the application fee plus $500 for each part of the exam ($1,500 total). For members it costs $400 for the application fee plus $400 for each part of the exam ($1,200 total).

3. LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) Certification

LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) Certification is a credential given to professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of green building principles and practices. The certification is offered by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).

The LEED AP certification process typically takes between two and four months to complete, depending on the individual’s experience level and the amount of time they are able to devote to studying for the exam. To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as energy efficiency, water conservation, materials selection, indoor air quality, and more.

To get LEED AP certification, applicants must first register with USGBC as a LEED Professional Candidate. Once registered, applicants can purchase study materials from USGBC or use free online resources to prepare for the exam. After studying for the exam, applicants must pay a fee of $250 USD in order to take the test at an approved testing center.

The cost of becoming a LEED AP varies depending on how much preparation is required before taking the exam. In addition to the $250 USD fee for taking the test, applicants may also need to purchase study materials or attend training courses which can range in cost from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars depending on what is needed.

4. OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health Certificate

OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health Certificate is a certification program that provides safety and health training for workers in the construction industry. The program is designed to help employers, supervisors, and workers recognize and prevent hazardous working conditions in the construction industry. The OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health Certificate is an online course that can be completed in as little as 10 hours. It covers topics such as fall protection, scaffolding, electrical safety, personal protective equipment, hazard communication, material handling, fire prevention and more. The course also includes interactive activities to reinforce learning objectives.

The cost of the OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health Certificate varies depending on the provider. Generally speaking, it costs between $50-$100 USD for the course. To get the certificate, you must complete the online course with a passing grade of 70% or higher. Upon successful completion of the course you will receive a digital copy of your OSHA 10-hour card which is valid for 5 years from date of issue.

5. American Institute of Constructors Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) Certification

The American Institute of Constructors Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes the expertise of construction professionals. It is designed to demonstrate a commitment to the highest standards of professional practice and ethical conduct in the construction industry.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having a minimum of five years of experience in the construction industry and passing an exam. The exam consists of two parts: a written component and an oral component. Applicants must pass both components in order to be certified.

The application process typically takes six to eight weeks from start to finish, depending on the applicant's experience level and availability for testing. Once approved, applicants can begin studying for the exam, which can take anywhere from three months to one year depending on their individual study habits and knowledge base.

The cost for taking the CPC exam varies by region but generally ranges from $500-$700 USD. This fee covers both parts of the exam as well as any associated costs such as travel expenses or materials needed for studying.

Overall, obtaining CPC Certification is an excellent way for construction professionals to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in their profession and gain recognition within the industry.

6. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in project management. It is awarded by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMP credential is designed for professionals who have experience leading and directing projects, and it validates their knowledge of project management processes, principles, and techniques.

It typically takes six to 12 months to prepare for the PMP exam. This preparation includes studying the PMBOK Guide, attending training courses or workshops, and taking practice tests. Once you are ready to take the exam, you can register with PMI and schedule your test date.

The cost of the PMP exam depends on whether you are a member of PMI or not. For non-members, the cost is $555; for members, it is $405. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with preparing for the exam such as books or online courses.

To earn your PMP credential, you must pass a four-hour multiple-choice examination consisting of 200 questions based on five process groups: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring & controlling and closing. To maintain your certification status you must earn 60 professional development units (PDUs) every three years.

7. Building Performance Institute Building Analyst Professional (BPI BAP) Certification

The Building Performance Institute (BPI) Building Analyst Professional (BAP) Certification is a nationally recognized certification that verifies an individual’s knowledge and skills in the field of building performance analysis. This certification is designed to help individuals demonstrate their expertise in evaluating, diagnosing, and improving the energy efficiency of residential buildings.

The BPI BAP Certification requires successful completion of both a written and practical exam. The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as building science principles, air infiltration testing, combustion safety testing, and energy auditing techniques. The practical exam involves performing a comprehensive energy audit on a residential building.

In order to take the BPI BAP Certification exams, individuals must first complete an approved training program. These programs typically involve classroom instruction as well as hands-on experience with various tools used during an energy audit. Training programs vary in length from one day to several weeks depending on the provider and can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 or more.

Once an individual has completed the required training program they can register for the BPI BAP Certification exams. The exams are administered by independent proctors at designated test centers throughout the United States and Canada. The cost for taking both exams is $450 plus any additional fees charged by the test center for administering the exams.

Once an individual has successfully passed both exams they will receive their official BPI BAP Certification card which is valid for three years from the date of issue. To maintain their certification individuals must complete continuing education credits every three years to keep their certification current.

8. American Society for Quality Certified Quality Improvement Associate (ASQ CQIA) Certification

The American Society for Quality Certified Quality Improvement Associate (ASQ CQIA) certification is an internationally recognized professional credential awarded by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in quality improvement, process improvement, and organizational excellence.

To obtain the ASQ CQIA certification, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as quality management systems, quality tools and techniques, project management, process improvement, and organizational excellence. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

In order to take the exam, applicants must first register with ASQ. Registration requires payment of a fee which varies depending on whether you are an individual or an organization. After registration is complete, applicants can then schedule their exam at a local testing center or online.

Once the exam has been successfully completed, applicants will receive their ASQ CQIA certificate within 4-6 weeks. The cost of the certification varies depending on whether you are an individual or an organization but typically ranges from $250-$400 USD.

9. National Council for Public-Private Partnerships Certified Public-Private Partnership Professional (NCPPP CPPP) Certification

The National Council for Public-Private Partnerships Certified Public-Private Partnership Professional (NCPPP CPPP) Certification is a certification program that recognizes the expertise of professionals who are experienced in the development, implementation and management of public-private partnerships. This certification is designed to provide an industry standard for those involved in public-private partnerships.

The NCPPP CPPP Certification is based on a series of competencies developed by the National Council for Public-Private Partnerships and validated through a rigorous examination process. The certification is valid for three years and can be renewed through continuing education activities.

To obtain the NCPPP CPPP Certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience working with public-private partnerships and must pass an examination administered by the National Council for Public-Private Partnerships. The exam consists of multiple choice questions that test knowledge in areas such as legal issues, financial analysis, project management, and risk management. Applicants must also submit references from individuals familiar with their work in public-private partnerships.

The cost to obtain the NCPPP CPPP Certification varies depending on whether you are a member of the National Council for Public-Private Partnerships or not. For members, the cost is $450; for nonmembers, it is $550.

10. American Concrete Institute Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade I Certification

The American Concrete Institute (ACI) Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade I Certification is a certification program designed to assess the knowledge and skills of individuals in the field of concrete testing. The certification is available to those who have successfully completed an ACI-approved training course and passed a written examination.

The ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade I Certification is valid for five years, and can be renewed by completing additional continuing education courses or retaking the exam. To become certified, applicants must complete a two-day ACI-approved training course, pass a written test, and meet other requirements such as having two years of experience in concrete testing.

The cost of the ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade I Certification varies depending on where you take the training course. Generally, it costs around $500-$600 to take the two-day course, plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam.

Do You Really Need a Construction Administrator Certificate?

The answer to this question depends largely on the individual’s goals and career aspirations. If someone is looking to move into a role as a construction administrator, then obtaining a Construction Administrator Certificate may be beneficial.

A certificate in Construction Administration offers specialized training in the various aspects of managing construction projects. This includes topics such as project management, cost estimating, scheduling, contract administration and safety. By obtaining a certificate, individuals can demonstrate that they have obtained an understanding of these topics and are able to apply them in real-world situations. It also serves as evidence of dedication and commitment to their craft.

In addition, some employers may require applicants for certain positions to have a Construction Administrator Certificate or equivalent qualifications. Therefore, if someone is hoping to secure a job in construction administration or related fields, it could be advantageous to obtain certification before applying for jobs.

Overall, whether or not someone needs a Construction Administrator Certificate ultimately depends on the person’s goals and ambitions within the field of construction administration. If they do decide that it is necessary for their career progression, there are plenty of resources available online and at local institutions that can help with obtaining certification.

Related: Construction Administrator Resume Examples

FAQs About Construction Administrator Certifications

1. What are the requirements to become a Construction Administrator?

Answer: The requirements vary by certification provider, but typically include relevant experience in construction administration, completion of an accredited program or coursework in construction management, and passing an exam.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a Construction Administrator?

Answer: It depends on the certification provider, but usually the process takes between 1-3 years.

3. Is there any continuing education required for Construction Administrators?

Answer: Yes, most certifications require ongoing professional development or continuing education credits in order to maintain the certification.

4. Are there any prerequisites for becoming a Certified Construction Administrator?

Answer: Yes, some certifications may require you to have prior experience or education in construction management before you can apply for certification.

5. What types of jobs can I get with a Construction Administrator Certification?

Answer: With a construction administrator certification you could be eligible for positions such as project manager, estimator, safety inspector, quality control specialist and more.