University of Colorado Boulder

What you'll study

The programme combines engineering fundamentals with building-specific applications. Core study areas typically include structural systems for buildings, HVAC and thermal systems, electrical and lighting systems, building enclosure and façade engineering, building energy modelling and controls, acoustics and fire protection. Students learn through a mix of coursework, laboratory work and design/project assignments that emphasise whole-building performance and systems integration.

• Core technical modules: structural analysis and design for buildings, advanced building systems (HVAC/MEP), building physics and thermal performance.
• Systems and performance: energy modelling and simulation, controls and automation, lighting and electrical systems, acoustics and fire safety.
• Design and detailing: building envelope design and moisture control, façade engineering, constructability and integration with architectural design.
• Research and project work: capstone design projects or thesis options, laboratory testing, field monitoring and case studies in building performance and sustainability.
• Electives and special topics: advanced materials, computational design and digital fabrication, resilience and seismic design, net-zero and low-energy building strategies.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant bachelor’s degree such as architectural engineering, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering or architecture. Typical prerequisites include courses in calculus, statics and dynamics, fundamental mechanics of materials, thermodynamics or heat transfer, and introductory electrical or HVAC concepts. Where background is incomplete, applicants may be required to take preparatory coursework.

• Academic transcripts: an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline with strong academic performance.
• Supporting documents: statement of purpose, curriculum vitae, and academic or professional references.
• Standardised tests: the programme may consider GRE scores if submitted; applicants should check current department guidance.
• English language proficiency: for international applicants, an approved English test score or equivalent proof of proficiency is required.

Career prospects

Graduates typically move into roles that bridge architecture and engineering, focusing on building performance, systems integration and sustainable design. Common career paths include positions as building systems or MEP engineers, façade and envelope engineers, structural engineers with building-specialist roles, energy modelers and building performance analysts, sustainability consultants, construction technology specialists and roles in building codes and commissioning.

Alumni also pursue research, doctoral study or technical leadership in consulting firms, engineering design firms, building product manufacturers, construction companies and government agencies responsible for building standards and sustainability policy.

Why study at University of Colorado Boulder

University of Colorado Boulder offers an interdisciplinary environment that brings together architecture, civil and mechanical engineering expertise with applied research in building energy and performance. The department emphasises hands-on learning through laboratory facilities, monitoring projects and collaborative capstone work, and benefits from active research groups focused on energy efficiency, façades and resilient building systems.

Its location provides good links to a regional building industry and consulting community, enabling internships and industry collaboration. Students benefit from opportunities to work with research centres and initiatives related to renewable energy, sustainability and building science, and from a faculty actively engaged in applied building research and professional practice.