PhD Construction Management

Postgraduate Degree
4 Years

The PhD in Construction Management is a prestigious, research-driven programme designed for ambitious scholars and professionals seeking to make a transformative impact on the construction industry through advanced research and innovation. As the global construction sector faces unprecedented challenges—such as sustainability demands, digital transformation, resource constraints, and increasing project complexity—there is a critical need for thought leaders who can develop cutting-edge solutions and shape the future of the industry. This programme provides a platform for students to conduct original, high-impact research that addresses these challenges and contributes to the advancement of construction management theory and practice.

The PhD in Construction Management emphasises independent, in-depth research, allowing students to explore complex issues such as sustainable construction practices, Building Information Modelling (BIM), lean construction, risk management, smart infrastructure, and the integration of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, IoT, and blockchain into construction processes. Under the guidance of experienced academic supervisors, students will develop innovative frameworks, methodologies, and tools that push the boundaries of the discipline.

Key features of the programme include:

Research Excellence: Students undertake a significant, original research project that contributes new knowledge to the field of construction management, with the potential to influence industry practices and policies.

Interdisciplinary Approach: The programme encourages cross-disciplinary research, enabling students to draw on fields such as engineering, architecture, business, environmental science, and data analytics to address complex construction challenges.

Industry Collaboration: Through partnerships with leading construction firms, government agencies, and industry bodies, students have the opportunity to conduct research that addresses real-world problems and delivers practical, impactful solutions.

Advanced Skill Development: The programme equips students with advanced research methodologies, critical thinking skills, and the ability to analyse and synthesise complex data, preparing them for high-level academic, industry, or consultancy roles.

Global Relevance: With a focus on global trends and challenges, the programme prepares graduates to address issues such as climate resilience, urbanisation, international regulations, and cross-cultural project management.

Flexible Study Options: Designed to accommodate working professionals and full-time scholars, the programme offers flexible study modes, including part-time and online options, enabling students to balance their research with other commitments.

By enrolling in this programme, students join a community of scholars and practitioners dedicated to pushing the boundaries of construction management knowledge. This programme is not just an academic pursuit; it is an opportunity to shape the future of the construction industry and make a lasting impact on the way construction projects are planned, managed, and delivered worldwide. Join us in driving innovation, sustainability, and excellence in construction management.

To qualify for the award of a PhD degree in Construction Management;

1. Students will be required to pass all courses and complete a total minimum of 9 credit hours.

2. Students will also be required to take a minimum of 3 examinable modules;

3. In addition to the requirements for progression to the thesis research for the award of the PhD degree, the candidate shall have:

a. Fulfilled a minimum residency requirement of two (2) years;

b. Obtained a total score not exceeding 20% with each component not exceeding 2% in the similarity test ;

c. Submitted and successfully defended a thesis; and

d. Shown evidence of submission of at least two manuscripts from the thesis for publication in peer-reviewed journal(s).

YEAR ONE

Management Theories 

Advanced Research Methods 

Thesis

YEAR TWO 

Thesis

YEAR THREE

Thesis

YEAR FOUR

Thesis

The prerequisites for admission to the programme are:

1. A candidate shall hold a Master’s Research degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Civil Engineering, Services Engineering, Building Technology, Quantity Surveying, Construction Project Management, and Construction Engineering Management from a recognized institution.

2. The transcripts of the application will be scrutinised for the courses offered at the master degree to ensure that the applicant qualifies to be enrolled in the programme.

3. Applicants with one (1) year Master’s degree shall be admitted to offer one-year top-up to MPhil before starting the PhD.

4. Candidates must submit a research proposal that is acceptable to the department.

5. Candidates must attend an interview session and pass the interview before admission.

6. Students may be required to take some additional courses whenever necessary.

7. Evidence of publication will be an added advantage.

Graduates from the programme on completion will occupy senior-level positions as researchers, lecturers, etc. in both private and public academic and research institutions in Ghana, with mandates stretching to the construction industry. Their employment prospects can also be stretched to cover large construction firms that invest in research and development (R&D), human capital training and development, real estate developers, and NGOs.

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Contact the department office
Tel: +233 - (0) 322 - 092503
       +233 - (0) 322 - 092500
E-Mail: ctm@knust.edu.gh