Indiana University

What you'll study

This programme combines core building science with digital design and construction practice. Typical topics include construction materials and methods, structural principles for low-rise buildings, environmental control systems (heating, cooling, daylighting and acoustics), and building codes and professional practice. Students learn computer-aided design, drafting and information modelling (CAD and BIM), parametric and computational design tools, and digital fabrication techniques.

The curriculum normally blends lecture courses, hands-on laboratory work and studio/problem-based projects. Early years emphasise fundamentals such as statics, materials and technical drawing; later years focus on integrated building systems, performance simulation, detailing, constructability, and a capstone design-build or research project. Many cohorts undertake a professional internship or industry placement to apply skills in real projects.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification. Admissions typically consider a combination of academic records (strong performance in mathematics and science is advantageous), a personal statement, and references. Because this is a technology-focused degree rather than an accredited professional architecture qualification, a formal design portfolio is usually helpful but not always mandatory; evidence of technical or design-related experience (courses, workshops, or work placements) strengthens an application.

International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements and provide equivalent academic documentation. Transfer students with prior college-level credits in drafting, CAD, construction technology or related subjects are often welcome and may receive credit where appropriate.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of technical and managerial roles in the building sector. Common job titles include architectural technologist, BIM coordinator/modeler, construction technologist, façade consultant, building performance analyst, and project coordinator. The skill set also suits roles in sustainable design consulting, facilities management, digital fabrication shops, and specialist subcontracting firms.

Many graduates work alongside architects and engineers on design delivery, construction documentation and building performance testing; others move into construction management, cost estimating, or software implementation for building information modelling. The degree also provides a pathway to postgraduate study in architecture, building science, construction management or environmental design.

Why study at Indiana University

Studying this programme at Indiana University gives students access to interdisciplinary resources across design, engineering and technology departments, enabling collaboration on real-world building problems. The university provides hands-on laboratory facilities and digital fabrication workshops where students can develop prototyping and model-making skills alongside BIM and performance-simulation tools.

Indiana University's relationships with regional design and construction firms create opportunities for internships and industry projects in a diverse built-environment market. Dedicated career services and alumni networks support graduate placement, while faculty with both academic and industry experience help ensure the curriculum remains aligned with professional practice and emerging building-technology trends.