Estimating, Preconstruction and Bidding

Online

In the construction process, the estimator not only predicts project cost, but also recognizes potential risks that might result in delays or financial losses. Designed for construction professionals, this course presents methodologies and processes necessary for developing accurate estimates. Through real-world examples and case studies, you’ll examine the foundations of cost estimation, practice with common tools and the latest technologies in the profession and explore shifts in the industry related to Lean Construction practices. By the end of this course, you will possess an understanding of the essential principles of estimating in order to produce more reliable estimates for your projects.

Learning Outcomes

  • Perform basic estimating functions
  • Identify potential risks and predict how to minimize risk
  • Analyze regional and aggregate market conditions
  • Apply methods and technologies associated with quantity take off
  • Differentiate the bidding process between public versus private projects, and adapt your estimating accordingly
  • Develop a reliable estimate using Target Value Design concepts

Skills You Will Gain

  • Estimation software
  • Risk assessment
  • Target Value Design
  • Applied math
  • Analytics

Course Format and Pacing
This is an online course delivered through Canvas, UC Davis CPE’s learning management system. Course materials—including video lectures, readings, assignments, and discussion forums—are released on a structured, week-by-week schedule. Students move through the course together, with regular due dates to support consistent progress and engagement. Most learners can expect to spend approximately 10–12 hours per week engaging with course content and completing assignments.

Prerequisite Information
Construction Plan Reading and Specifications is a prerequisite for this course.

Students may take the courses out of order, provided they possess the following knowledge and skills:
- Ability to interpret plan details and understand how drawings progress from general to specific views
- Familiarity with On-Screen Takeoff or similar estimating software
- Understanding of how to extract accurate quantity takeoffs based on plan details
- Confidence navigating construction plans, including interpreting directions and bearings

Industry-Leading Software
On Center software provides industry professionals with powerful tools for digital takeoffs and precise cost estimating, helping streamline workflows and improve accuracy during preconstruction and bidding. Its use in this course prepares students with hands-on experience using a platform widely adopted in the construction industry.

Software Requirements
On Center runs exclusively on Windows operating systems. Students using a Mac will need to install Windows through Parallels or Boot Camp to ensure compatibility. A reliable internet connection and a Windows-compatible device that meets minimum system requirements are essential for smooth software performance.

Academic Units
4
Section Number
253CNM104
Instruction Method
Online class

Section Notes

This is an online course with class materials that can be accessed throughout the week. The course is structured to move from one week to the next.

Students will receive an email with login information to access the course one business day before the first day of the course.

If you anticipate needing any Disability Accommodations, please contact our Student Services representative PRIOR to enrolling in this course. The accommodations must be organized before starting the program. Please contact Tina Ehrke at (530) 757-8727 if you would like to register for a course and you have disability-related needs or concerns. https://cpe.ucdavis.edu/student-services/disabilities

Textbook information will be updated on this course page under Section Course Materials at least one month before the start of the course.

Prerequisite: Construction Plan Reading and Specifications or a student must have the following:

• Knowledge on how to follow detail path flow; understanding detail progressions starting from larger to smaller views of the same subject/item(s)
• Basic overview knowledge of On Screen Takeoff (or similar estimating software)
• Knowledge on how to apply the appropriate plan detail information as it relates to needed estimate takeoff quantities
• Be able to comfortably maneuver through plans and understand bearings

Certificate students: Students must earn a grade of C or higher (not a C minus) in order for this course to count towards the requirements for the Construction Management Certificate. Courses applied towards the Construction Management Certificate must be completed within five years.

Enrollment Policies

Refund deadline: 1/27/2026. Refunds and/or enrollment transfers (minus a $30 processing fee) will not be approved after this date. Click here (https://cpe.ucdavis.edu/student-services/withdrawals-refunds-transfers) to view complete enrollment policy information including details on withdrawals and transfers.

Students have the first week of class to enroll with the understanding that students who enroll after the first day of class are expected to reach out to their instructors to make sure they receive all content and are on track with the course.

Technical Requirements

All elements of this class will be conducted online. Students must have a computer with access to the internet and an email account in order to complete this course. Students must be able to download and upload files from and to the online classroom. To ensure your success in this course, please review our technical requirements page.

Discounts

CAAA Member Discount

Current members of the Cal Aggie Alumni Association (CAAA) and other UC alumni associations receive 10% off the course fee of one course per quarter, not to exceed $100. If you don't have your discount code, contact CAAA at alumni@ucdavis.edu to request it.