Georgia Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The programme combines design studio work, technical coursework and research methods to explore the relationship between built form, ecosystems and infrastructure. Core subject areas typically include environmental systems and performance, design studio or project-based courses, site analysis and ecological design, sustainable materials and construction, and courses in policy or planning that address urban resilience and climate adaptation.

• Design studio / project seminars – immersive, team-based projects focused on real sites and clients that develop conceptual design, technical detailing and presentation skills.
• Environmental systems and performance – study of energy flows, microclimates, stormwater management and passive strategies to reduce environmental impact.
• Site ecology and landscape strategies – methods for integrating native planting, habitat restoration and green infrastructure in design solutions.
• Materials, construction and detailing – practical knowledge about sustainable materials, assembly and implementation challenges.
• Research methods and theory – approaches to qualitative and quantitative research, including mapping, data analysis and environmental assessment techniques.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options – opportunities to take courses in adjacent areas such as urban planning, civil/environmental engineering, public policy, or digital design and modelling.

The degree structure typically includes a combination of required courses and electives, a significant design or research project (capstone or thesis), and opportunities for collaboration with other colleges and research centres within Georgia Tech.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in architecture, landscape architecture, planning, engineering, environmental science or a related discipline. Admission materials commonly requested include academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, a statement of purpose describing professional and academic goals, letters of recommendation, and a portfolio that demonstrates design thinking or relevant project work where applicable.

International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements. Some applicants may be asked to demonstrate preparatory knowledge in design or technical subjects; bridging coursework can sometimes be taken if required. Specific admissions policies, including any test score requirements or portfolio guidelines, are provided by the College of Design and should be consulted before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of careers where design, environmental performance and systems thinking intersect. Typical roles include environmental or sustainability consultant, urban or site designer, policy advisor in resilience and climate adaptation, project manager for green infrastructure, and positions in non-profits or governmental planning agencies. Some graduates pursue further doctoral research or move into interdisciplinary practices that combine technology, data analysis and design innovation.

Career development is supported by Georgia Tech’s industry connections, research centres and career services, which help students find internships, collaborative projects and job placements in the public, private and civic sectors.

Why study at Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Tech brings a technology-focused approach to environmental design, emphasising data-informed decision-making, performance analysis and interdisciplinary collaboration. The institute’s strengths in engineering, computing and urban research provide students access to advanced tools and cross-college expertise for tackling complex environmental challenges.

Students benefit from proximity to active design and planning practice in a major metropolitan region, connections to research centres working on sustainability and resilience, and opportunities to engage in applied projects with government agencies, NGOs and industry partners. The College of Design’s emphasis on combining rigorous technical knowledge with creative design practice makes Georgia Tech a strong environment for those seeking to influence the future of sustainable places.