Algonquin College

Programme overview

This Honours Bachelor of Science in Building Science trains students to analyse and optimise building performance by integrating building design, construction, human comfort and sustainability. The program emphasises building physics and systems-level thinking, blending theoretical study with hands-on and modelling practice. It is delivered through the Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence (ACCE), which provides an applied learning and industry-collaboration environment.

What you'll study

Coursework covers building performance fundamentals, materials and construction methods, collaborative design processes, job-readiness for co-op employment and mathematical foundations such as calculus. The program weaves practical experience throughout: roughly 25% of learning is hands-on project work and another 25% focuses on computer modelling and applied practice. Example course entries from the curriculum include:

• ARC1000 — Construction Methods and Materials: foundations of building performance requirements and materials.
• DSN2300 — Building Design Process: collaborative design activities with other building industry professionals.
• GEP1001 — Cooperative Education and Job Readiness: job-search preparation and workplace success skills for co-op terms.
• MAT6443 — Calculus I: differential calculus fundamentals supporting quantitative analysis.

The program stresses scientific inquiry, evidence-based evaluation of building performance, and the ability to assess how individual components affect whole-building outcomes. Team-based, multidisciplinary project work is used to develop integrated construction approaches.

Entry requirements

The full credential is a four-year honours degree; however, graduates of the Mechanical Engineering Technology Ontario College Advanced Diploma may apply to this pathway and, if admitted, receive credit for 13 courses which reduces completion time to three years. The program includes optional paid co-operative work terms; admission to the co-op stream and placements are subject to availability and academic eligibility, and placement is not guaranteed. The program is eligible for Post-Graduation Work Permit consideration under current guidelines.

Career prospects

Graduates are positioned to work where building performance, energy efficiency and system integration are priorities. Typical roles cited by the program include building scientist, architectural or construction project manager, energy consultant and building inspector. Other opportunities include research positions, junior analyst roles, technical staff in engineering firms or government agencies, and entrepreneurial ventures in construction technology and services.

Scholarships & funding angle

No specific scholarships are listed on the program page. Prospective students should consult Algonquin College’s financial aid resources and ACCE partnerships for possible funding, co-op earnings, and industry-supported applied research opportunities that may offset costs.