Southern Utah University

Course Syllabus

Back to Syllabus Search | Browse by Department
Southern Utah University
Southern Utah University
Spring Semester 2026

Advanced Estimating and Bidding (Face-to-Face)

CM 4240-01

Course: CM 4240-01
Credits: 3
Term: Spring Semester 2026
Department: ET
CRN: 10678

Course Description

This course is designed to give the students the skills to estimate several types of construction projects using software programs designed for use in the professional world. The student will be exposed to many different aspects of estimating, including, but not limited to heavy civil, residential remodeling, new residential construction, and commercial construction. (Spring) [Graded (Standard Letter)] Prerequisite(s): CM 3240 - Prerequisite Min. Grade: C-

Required Texts

Textbook: No textbook is required.
Software: Students are expected to utilize all AI tools and software previously used throughout their degree coursework. Bluebeam Revu, Procore, MS-Excel, RSMeans, HeavyBid and other quantity takeoff programs are available to the project estimator for deterministic and probabilistic cost estimates. 

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
Foundations of Estimating
  • Understand the fundamental role of cost, performance, and schedule in construction project planning and decision-making.
  • Explain the importance of accurate cost estimating throughout the entire project lifecycle, from concept to construction.
  • Identify the essential components and terminology used in professional construction estimating and bidding.
Estimating Methods and Techniques
  • Apply a standardized, industry-aligned estimating methodology consistent with practices used by professional estimators and quantity surveyors.
  • Perform efficient and accurate quantity takeoffs using manual and technology-supported methods.
  • Develop direct and indirect unit costs using appropriate pricing strategies and resource assessment.
  • Use quantitative tools, cost databases, and digital technologies to improve estimating productivity and consistency.
Cost Development and Accuracy
  • Compile consistently accurate construction cost estimates within a reasonable time frame while maintaining quality and completeness.
  • Assess and incorporate potential risks, uncertainties, and future changes in resource costs when preparing estimates.
  • Evaluate the integrity and reliability of cost estimates and communicate the level of accuracy and associated risks.
Bidding and Proposal Preparation
  • Prepare complete and competitive bid proposals, including bid forms, detailed cost breakdowns, and schedules of values.
  • Analyze and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotations to ensure alignment with project requirements and pricing strategy.
  • Apply effective bidding strategies that consider market conditions, competition, and organizational constraints.
Professional Practice and Application
  • Integrate estimating and bidding practices with current industry technologies to enhance productivity and accuracy.
  • Demonstrate the ability to create, review, and control cost estimates in accordance with professional construction industry standards.
  • Use core estimating concepts through worked examples drawn from small building projects, enabling a clear understanding of techniques without unnecessary complexity.
  • Participate in the iterative estimating process by updating estimates as the project scope, design, and conditions evolve.
Critical Thinking and Decision-Making
  • Exercise professional judgment when interpreting incomplete information, evaluating future conditions, and managing cost-related risks.
  • Understand how accurate estimating supports budgeting, resource planning, and cost control during construction.
  • Recognize the estimator’s responsibility in shaping project feasibility, financial planning, and overall project success.

Course Requirements

To successfully complete CM 4240, students are expected to participate in a combination of individual and group-based learning activities. The total course grade is based on 1,000 points, distributed across the following components:
1. Class Participation – 100 points
Students are expected to actively contribute to class discussions, case studies, and in-class estimating exercises. Regular attendance and professional engagement are essential for understanding advanced estimating techniques and applying them in real-time problem-solving contexts.
2. Hands-On Assignments (Individual Evaluation) – 100 points
Individual assignments focus on building technical proficiency in quantity takeoffs, cost development, and the use of digital estimating tools. These tasks strengthen students’ ability to produce accurate estimates and apply industry-standard methods independently.
3. Quizzes (Individual Evaluation) – 100 points
Quizzes provide frequent checks on students’ understanding of key estimating concepts, pricing strategies, and bidding procedures. They ensure students keep pace with the course material and reinforce both theoretical knowledge and practical decision-making skills.
4. Workshops / Computer Labs (Group Evaluation) – 100 points
Group workshops allow students to apply estimating techniques using professional software platforms. Teams complete structured lab activities requiring collaboration, accurate documentation, and the ability to integrate technology into standardized estimating processes.
5. Project (Group Evaluation) – 200 points
For the group project, students prepare a complete estimate and bid proposal for a simulated construction project. This includes takeoffs, cost breakdowns, subcontractor evaluations, and a final bid presentation, mirroring the responsibilities of estimators in a contractor’s office.
6. Mid-Term Exam – 200 points
The midterm exam assesses students’ grasp of advanced estimation concepts and their ability to apply these methods to practical scenarios. It may include quantitative exercises, conceptual questions, and application-based problems related to pricing and bidding.
7. Final Exam – 200 points
The final exam evaluates cumulative mastery of the course through comprehensive estimating challenges, pricing exercises, and interpretation of plans and specifications. It tests both theoretical understanding and practical estimating capability at an advanced level.

Course Outline

Part 1: Best Practices for Estimating Construction Costs
Module 1: Fundamentals of Construction Cost Estimating
  • Introduction to core methods for developing accurate construction cost estimates.
  • Understanding standardized estimating procedures and industry-aligned workflows.
  • Overview of direct costs, indirect costs, overhead, and pricing fundamentals.
Module 2: Advanced Quantity Takeoff and Cost Development
  • Performing detailed quantity takeoffs using manual and digital tools.
  • Developing unit costs, labor/equipment productivity rates, and material pricing strategies.
  • Applying estimating methodologies consistent with professional estimator practices.
Module 3: Heavy Civil Estimating Using HeavyBid
  • Using HeavyBid or comparable software to prepare structured cost estimates.
  • Completing multi-step term-project exercises focused on civil construction quantities and pricing.
  • Emphasis on accuracy, review procedures, cost control, and risk identification.
Module 4: Mid-Term Exam Review and Examination
  • Comprehensive review session covering Modules 1–3.
  • Mid-term exam assessing estimating principles, takeoff accuracy, and applied cost development.

Part 2: Best Practices for Bidding Construction Projects
Module 5: Overview of the Construction Bidding Process
  • Review of procurement and request types (RFP, RFI, RFB, ITB, etc.).
  • Explanation of major bidding processes and their appropriate applications.
  • Planning activities for bid preparation, including documentation workflows.
  • Pre–bid-day, bid-day, and post-bid activities and best practices.
  • Assignment reinforcing the estimating and bidding workflow.
Module 6: Bidding Procedures for Competitive Construction Projects
  • Understanding invited vs. advertised bidding procedures.
  • Requirements for bid document availability, bid timing, and bid submissions.
  • Bonding requirements (bid bonds, payment bonds, performance bonds).
  • Instruction on bid forms, alternates, subcontractor listings, and unit pricing.
  • Review of addenda, ethics in bidding, and the award-of-contract process.
  • Coverage of re-bidding, retainage, fees, schedules, liquidated damages, and change orders.
  • Responsibilities for code compliance, utilities, inspections, and testing.
  • Use of scope letters, emailed bids, and communication protocols.
  • Application of these procedures within the term project.
Module 7: Bidding Strategy for Construction Projects
  • Definition, purpose, and principles of construction bidding strategy.
  • Elements of a complete bidding strategy, including:
    • Risk analysis and uncertainty evaluation
    • Contract terms and cash-flow curve interpretation
    • Competitor and market analysis
    • Qualitative decision-making factors
  • Development and application of risk and cash-flow models.
  • Formulation of a final bidding strategy applicable to project conditions.
  • Guest speaker session on bidding procedures and real-world case studies.
  • The assignment focused on developing a complete bidding strategy.

Part 3: Course Culmination and Final Review
Module 8: Final Exam Review and Course Wrap-Up
  • Final review session combining estimating methods, bidding procedures, and bidding strategy.
  • Completion of outstanding assignments and preparation for the final exam.
  • Integration of course concepts into a cohesive understanding of the estimating–bidding process.

Instructor's policies on late assignments and/or makeup work

  1. Missed Lectures: Students are responsible for all material covered in class during an absence. Students who are absent from a lecture should ask a classmate or the instructor for lecture notes. The PowerPoint slides do not cover everything discussed in class. 
  2. Missed/Late Assignments: Contact the instructor to check about missed assignments. Students are responsible for completing assignments made on time during their absence. Assignments handed in late will be penalized 15% of the total point value for each class day late.
  3. Missed Quizzes: Quizzes are usually given during the first 10 minutes of class. There will be no makeups for missed quizzes. 
  4. Missed Labs: In-class portions of the labs cannot be made up. An absence will result in a 0 for that day’s lab activity, and the lowest lab grade will be dropped. When students are asked to finish a lab at home, labs handed in late will be penalized 15% of the total point value for each class day late.

Attendance Policy

Attendance is required for Face-to-Face, Synchronous Remote, or Hybrid courses. If you are ill, you may request that a faculty member record the class and share it with you or request other reasonable accommodations. Your instructor will work with you to develop a plan for completing coursework. To receive academic accommodations and ensure that your request is communicated to faculty, you must submit this self-report form.

Course Fees

N/A

ADA Statement

Students with medical, psychological, learning, or other disabilities desiring academic adjustments, accommodations, or auxiliary aids will need to contact the Disability Resource Center, located in Room 206F of the Sharwan Smith Center or by phone at (435) 865-8042. The Disability Resource Center determines eligibility for and authorizes the provision of services.

If your instructor requires attendance, you may need to seek an ADA accommodation to request an exception to this attendance policy. Please contact the Disability Resource Center to determine what, if any, ADA accommodations are reasonable and appropriate.

Academic Credit

According to the federal definition of a Carnegie credit hour: A credit hour of work is the equivalent of approximately 60 minutes of class time or independent study work. A minimum of 45 hours of work by each student is required for each unit of credit. Credit is earned only when course requirements are met. One (1) credit hour is equivalent to 15 contact hours of lecture, discussion, testing, evaluation, or seminar, as well as 30 hours of student homework. An equivalent amount of work is expected for laboratory work, internships, practica, studio, and other academic work leading to the awarding of credit hours. Credit granted for individual courses, labs, or studio classes ranges from 0.5 to 15 credit hours per semester.

Academic Freedom

SUU is operated for the common good of the greater community it serves. The common good depends upon the free search for truth and its free exposition. Academic Freedom is the right of faculty to study, discuss, investigate, teach, and publish. Academic Freedom is essential to these purposes and applies to both teaching and research.

Academic Freedom in the realm of teaching is fundamental for the protection of the rights of the faculty member and of you, the student, with respect to the free pursuit of learning and discovery. Faculty members possess the right to full freedom in the classroom in discussing their subjects. They may present any controversial material relevant to their courses and their intended learning outcomes, but they shall take care not to introduce into their teaching controversial materials which have no relation to the subject being taught or the intended learning outcomes for the course.

As such, students enrolled in any course at SUU may encounter topics, perspectives, and ideas that are unfamiliar or controversial, with the educational intent of providing a meaningful learning environment that fosters your growth and development. These parameters related to Academic Freedom are included in SUU Policy 6.6.

Academic Misconduct

Scholastic honesty is expected of all students. Dishonesty will not be tolerated and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent (see SUU Policy 6.33). You are expected to have read and understood the current SUU student conduct code (SUU Policy 11.2) regarding student responsibilities and rights, the intellectual property policy (SUU Policy 5.52), information about procedures, and what constitutes acceptable behavior.

Please Note: The use of websites or services that sell essays is a violation of these policies; likewise, the use of websites or services that provide answers to assignments, quizzes, or tests is also a violation of these policies. Regarding the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), you should check with your individual course instructor.

Emergency Management Statement

In case of an emergency, the University's Emergency Notification System (ENS) will be activated. Students are encouraged to maintain updated contact information using the link on the homepage of the mySUU portal. In addition, students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Emergency Response Protocols posted in each classroom. Detailed information about the University's emergency management plan can be found at https://www.suu.edu/emergency.

HEOA Compliance Statement

For a full set of Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) compliance statements, please visit https://www.suu.edu/heoa. The sharing of copyrighted material through peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing, except as provided under U.S. copyright law, is prohibited by law; additional information can be found at https://my.suu.edu/help/article/1096/heoa-compliance-plan.

You are also expected to comply with policies regarding intellectual property (SUU Policy 5.52) and copyright (SUU Policy 5.54).

Mandatory Reporting

University policy (SUU Policy 5.60) requires instructors to report disclosures received from students that indicate they have been subjected to sexual misconduct/harassment. The University defines sexual harassment consistent with Federal Regulations (34 C.F.R. Part 106, Subpart D) to include quid pro quo, hostile environment harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking. When students communicate this information to an instructor in-person, by email, or within writing assignments, the instructor will report that to the Title IX Coordinator to ensure students receive support from the Title IX Office. A reporting form is available at https://cm.maxient.com/reportingform.php?SouthernUtahUniv

Non-Discrimination Statement

SUU is committed to fostering an inclusive community of lifelong learners and believes our university's encompassing of different views, beliefs, and identities makes us stronger, more innovative, and better prepared for the global society.

SUU does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex (including sex discrimination and sexual harassment), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, ancestry, disability status, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, military status, veteran status, or other bases protected by applicable law in employment, treatment, admission, access to educational programs and activities, or other University benefits or services.

SUU strives to cultivate a campus environment that encourages freedom of expression from diverse viewpoints. We encourage all to dialogue within a spirit of respect, civility, and decency.

For additional information on non-discrimination, please see SUU Policy 5.27 and/or visit https://www.suu.edu/nondiscrimination.

Pregnancy

Students who are or become pregnant during this course may receive reasonable modifications to facilitate continued access and participation in the course. Pregnancy and related conditions are broadly defined to include pregnancy, childbirth, termination of pregnancy, lactation, related medical conditions, and recovery. To obtain reasonable modifications, please make a request to title9@suu.edu. To learn more visit: https://www.suu.edu/titleix/pregnancy.html.

Disclaimer Statement

Information contained in this syllabus, other than the grading, late assignments, makeup work, and attendance policies, may be subject to change with advance notice, as deemed appropriate by the instructor.