Construction Project Management Essentials

Construction Project Management Essentials is an online program developed by the Toronto Construction Association (TCA) and The Construction Institute of Canada (TCIC) to address the evolving needs of the construction industry.

This course provides practical, industry-aligned knowledge and essential skills required to successfully manage construction projects in accordance with Canadian standards. It is designed for aspiring project managers, junior estimators, site superintendents, project coordinators, and construction professionals seeking to strengthen their project management capabilities.

Participants will develop a solid understanding of key project management principles, including planning, scheduling, cost control, contract administration, risk management, and project execution. The program bridges theory and real-world application, equipping learners with the competencies needed to manage projects effectively — from pre-construction planning through to project closeout.

Upon completion, participants will be prepared to confidently oversee construction projects with professionalism, strong contractual awareness, and adherence to industry best practices.

Course Structure:

The course spans 8 weeks and consists of 7 modules, each focusing on a key aspect of construction project management:

Module 1 – Introduction to Construction Project Management

  • Definition and scope of construction project management
  • Roles and responsibilities of the construction project manager
  • The construction project cycle
  • Core competencies in construction management

Module 2 – Contractual Frameworks and Project Delivery Methods

  • Project procurement strategies for construction services
  • Understanding construction contracts and legal obligations
  • Comparison of delivery methods and contract models
  • Industry standard contracts
  • Ethics in procurement

Module 3 – Cost Estimating, Budgeting, and Financial Control

  • Principles of cost estimating and budgeting
  • Types of estimates: conceptual, detailed, and unit price
  • Managing project budgets and financial reporting
  • Progress payments and financial documentation

Module 4 – Planning and Scheduling

  • Project planning fundamentals
  • Developing work breakdown structures
  • Scheduling techniques
  • Monitoring progress and adjusting schedules

Module 5 – Managing Risks in Construction Projects

  • Principles of risk management
  • Risk management processes
  • Risk management plan
  • Identification of risks

Module 6 – Construction Project Monitoring and Control

  • Managing project documentation
  • Project meetings
  • Quality control
  • Jobsite safety

Week 7 – Project Closeout

  • Substantial performance and project completion criteria
  • Commissioning processes and documentation
  • Handover procedures and final documentation
  • Lessons learned and post-project evaluation

Week 8 – Final Examination

The eighth week culminates with a final examination to assess participants' understanding of the course material.

Learning Outcomes:

By successfully completing the course, participants will be able to:

  • Describe core construction project management competencies
  • Explain key process functions and skills required by construction project managers
  • Apply concepts of cost estimating, planning, and scheduling
  • Assess procurement strategies using industry standard contracts
  • Identify and manage project risks
  • Establish and implement quality metrics for successful completion of projects

Course Evaluation and Grading:

  • Quizzes (Modules 1–7): 56% of the final grade (8% per module)
  • Final Examination: 44% of the final grade
  • Passing Grade: 60%

Delivery Method:

The course is delivered fully online, featuring self-paced modules. The components include:

  • Interactive lessons and presentations
  • Self-study materials, resources, videos, and practical instructions
  • Quizzes and a final examination

All course content, resources, and instructions are accessible through the TCIC course website. Participants are encouraged to complete the course within an 8-week period, with a recommended total of 24 hours.

Who Should Attend:

  • Aspiring Project Managers
  • Junior Estimators
  • Site Superintendents
  • Project Coordinators
  • Tradespeople
  • Construction Management Professionals

Certification:

This course is Gold Seal accredited and awards 8 credits upon completion.

If you have any questions please contact Faith Chen at TCIC at 416-847-9162 or fchen@tcaconnect.com.

duration:
24 hours total
schedule:
Self-paced, 24/7
where:
TCIC e-Learning
TCA member:
$450.00 + HST
non-member:
$550.00 + HST
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