Georgia Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The programme combines core technical courses, laboratory work and elective specialisms to build expertise in how buildings perform, are assembled and are digitally mediated. Core topics typically include building physics and environmental control systems, thermal and energy modelling, building information modelling (BIM) workflows, structural and façade systems, materials science for the built environment, and research methods.

• Building science and environmental systems – heat transfer, moisture management, HVAC fundamentals and daylighting strategies for occupant comfort and energy performance.
• Performance analysis and simulation – energy modelling, computational fluid dynamics for natural ventilation, optimisation workflows and post-occupancy evaluation.
• Digital design and fabrication – parametric modelling, scripting, CNC and robotic fabrication techniques, and digital-to-physical production methods.
• Materials and assemblies – advanced material properties, sustainable materials, façade engineering and detailing for durability and constructability.
• BIM and integrated project delivery – interdisciplinary coordination, information management, and lifecycle assessment using BIM platforms and open data standards.
• Research project or thesis – students typically complete a substantial research project or design-research thesis that applies technical investigation to a real-world building problem.

The curriculum is offered with flexible options for coursework-only, design-research projects, or thesis pathways, allowing students to tailor study to professional practice or continued academic research. Lab-based instruction and studio-like project work are integrated throughout the programme.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in architecture, architectural technology, civil or mechanical engineering, construction management, or a closely related discipline. Strong quantitative aptitude and evidence of design or technical competence are important.

• Official academic transcripts demonstrating a solid undergraduate record in a relevant field.
• A curriculum vitae or résumé outlining professional experience, internships and technical skills.
• A personal statement describing academic interests, research or practice goals, and reasons for choosing this programme.
• Portfolio submission recommended for applicants from architectural and design backgrounds; portfolios should emphasise technical, built-work or research projects if available.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can attest to the applicant’s preparation for graduate study.
• Proof of English language proficiency if the applicant’s first language is not English, typically satisfied by recognised tests or institutional exemptions.

Some applicants may be expected to have completed undergraduate coursework in structures, building systems or computational methods; where gaps exist, prerequisite courses may be recommended before or during the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to technical and leadership roles where deep understanding of building performance and technology is required. Typical career paths include:

• BIM manager or coordinator across architecture and engineering firms.
• Building systems engineer focusing on HVAC, controls and energy optimisation.
• Façade or envelope engineer specialising in performance, detailing and constructability.
• Sustainability and energy consultant advising on envelope retrofit, compliance and net-zero strategies.
• Digital fabrication and robotics specialist within design-build practices or fabrication shops.
• Research or academic roles pursuing building technology innovation, laboratory work or doctoral study.

Employers typically include architecture and engineering consultancies, specialised façade and MEP firms, construction contractors, technology companies developing building performance software or hardware, and research institutions.

Why study at Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Tech’s School of Architecture and the wider College of Design sit within a major technological research university, providing strong interdisciplinary links with engineering, computing and materials science. Students benefit from access to well-equipped fabrication labs, environmental testing facilities and computational resources that support advanced performance analysis and prototyping.

The institution has collaborative ties with industry and strong project opportunities with local and international partners, enabling students to apply technical research to real-world building challenges. Faculty active in building technology, digital design and sustainability bring current research into the curriculum, preparing graduates to lead innovation at the intersection of architecture and technology.