Requirements to Becoming a General Contractor

General contractors work with an individual or company to renovate, construct or demolish a building. They provide manpower, equipment and materials for a construction project. All employers don't require a degree from those seeking to become a general contractor, but formal education may be necessary for some positions.

View 5 Popular Schools »

Educational Requirements for General Contractors

All states require a contractor to be licensed, but each state has different requirements. General contractors may learn trades by working in specialized areas, like plumbing or electricity. They also may begin as general construction workers who hang drywall, frame buildings or perform finishing work. Some general contractors complete formal training programs.

Apprenticeship Programs

Apprenticeship programs are available for aspiring general contractors who want on-the-job and formal classroom training. An apprenticeship takes 2-4 years to complete. Apprentice general contractors eventually become full-time employees of a construction company and perform regular job duties to learn the trade. Upon successful completion of an apprenticeship program, graduates receive a certificate.

Degree Programs

Although there aren't any general education requirements for a general contractor, an aspiring contractor may wish to earn a bachelor's degree to enhance marketability and for certification examinations. Earning a degree in either construction science, construction management or civil engineering will mostly likely serve a general constructor best. A bachelor's degree program may include coursework in mathematics, estimation practices, construction practices and construction site safety. Since many general contractors are small business owners, a bachelor's degree program in construction management may also include coursework in business management and accounting.

Earning a master's degree in construction management may aid contractors in obtaining higher positions. Another option is pursuing master's degree in either business administration or finance.

Certification for a General Contractor

Although a general contractor doesn't need certification, one might pursue a credential in order to specialize or qualify for certain jobs. A general contractor, for example, may wish to become certified in asbestos removal if he or she plans on working in restoration. Considering certification in a sub-discipline may make the chances for landing a contract better. Those who do wish to become certified may take tests regarding cost management, professionalism and administration. The Certified Contractor Manager designation is available through the CMAA Foundation.

Employment Outlook and Salary Information

Employment in construction depends on a variety of factors, including new home construction and renovations. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projected that employment growth would be 17% between 2008 and 2018 (www.bls.gov). General contractors with 1-4 years experience earned $49,927 in 2011, according to Payscale.com. General contractors with 20 years or more experience earned $76,441.

Show me popular schools

Related to Becoming a General Contractor

  • Related
  • Recently Updated
  • Popular
General Contractor: Educational Requirements for a Contractor's License

General contractors organize the work that goes into the construction or renovation of various types of buildings and...

Online General Contractor Courses, Classes and Training Programs

General contractors handle all aspects of construction management and typically deal with subcontractors for...

General Contractor: Job Outlook and Requirements for a Career in General Contracting

A General Contractor provides the skilled labor and supplies necessary to complete a large or small construction...

General Contractor: An Introduction to the Field of Construction Management

General contractors are responsible for overseeing construction projects and hiring the subcontractors needed to...

Job Description of an Environmental Contractor

5 Popular Schools

Other Schools:

Popular Schools

Avg. Wages For Related Jobs

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics