Roger Williams University

What you'll study

This master's blends technical coursework, studio-based projects and an independent capstone to deepen understanding of how buildings perform, how they are assembled, and how technology informs design decisions. Core topics typically include building science and enclosure systems, structural principles for architects, environmental and energy performance, digital design and computational methods, and advanced fabrication techniques.

• Building Science and Environmental Systems — heat, moisture and air movement, thermal comfort, HVAC fundamentals and strategies for low-energy design.
• Envelope and Materials Technology — assemblies, insulation, cladding, fenestration, durability, and detailing for performance and resilience.
• Digital Design and Computational Methods — parametric modelling, performance-driven design workflows, scripting and generative design tools.
• BIM and Integrated Delivery — information modelling for coordination, clash detection, construction sequencing and facility management workflows.
• Advanced Fabrication and Making — CNC, 3D printing, robotics and workshop practice linking digital models to physical prototypes.
• Construction Technology and Project Delivery — construction methods, contract administration, cost considerations and quality control.
• Research Methods and Capstone Project — independent investigation culminating in a design-technical thesis, built prototype or applied research project.

Coursework is commonly delivered through a mix of seminar classes, technical labs, design studios and collaborative projects with students from architecture, engineering and construction management. Students also have opportunities to engage with real-world clients and regional issues such as coastal resilience and adaptive reuse.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold a bachelor's degree in architecture, architectural studies, engineering, construction management or a closely related field from an accredited institution. Candidates with substantial professional experience in the built environment may also be considered. Typical application materials include:

• Official transcripts demonstrating prior academic preparation.
• A professional portfolio showcasing design work, technical drawings, research or built projects (specific portfolio guidelines are provided by the programme).
• A statement of purpose outlining academic and professional objectives and proposed areas of specialisation.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English.

Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview. The programme welcomes both recent graduates and mid-career professionals seeking to upskill in technical specialisms.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for technically oriented roles across the design and construction sector or for continued research and teaching. Common career paths include:

• BIM manager or coordinator, overseeing information modelling workflows for design and construction projects.
• Building performance analyst or sustainability consultant, specialising in energy modelling, daylighting and environmental simulation.
• Facade or enclosure engineer, focusing on thermal, moisture and air-tightness performance of building envelopes.
• Digital fabrication specialist, working in design-build practices, research labs or advanced manufacturing settings.
• Construction technologist or project technologist, integrating technical design with delivery processes and construction logistics.
• Researcher or academic, pursuing doctoral study or applied research within universities, centres for building innovation or industry labs.

Roger Williams University’s regional industry links and emphasis on applied projects also support internship and practicum opportunities that can lead directly to employment in design firms, contractor teams and allied consultancies.

Why study at Roger Williams University

Roger Williams University offers a close-knit learning environment where technical training is integrated with studio design and hands-on making. The School of Architecture’s facilities include fabrication workshops and digital labs that enable experimentation with materials and construction processes. Faculty members combine academic research with professional practice, and the programme often draws on regional projects that address coastal, historic and urban challenges pertinent to New England.

Small class sizes encourage individualized mentoring and interdisciplinary collaboration with related programmes such as construction management and engineering. Proximity to Providence and Boston expands access to architectural firms, research centres and construction industry partners, helping students build professional networks while they study.