University of Hartford

What you'll study

The programme blends engineering fundamentals, architectural concepts and applied technology to prepare students for technical roles in the building industry. Study typically covers digital design and documentation, building information modelling (BIM), construction materials and methods, structural systems, and mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) systems. Courses emphasise hands‑on studio work, laboratory testing and industry-standard software for CAD and BIM, together with topics in building codes, construction estimating, specifications and sustainability.

A typical structure includes general education and mathematics in early years, followed by core engineering technology courses and progressive studio/lab sequences. The curriculum commonly culminates in a capstone project that integrates design, analysis and construction documentation, and may include an internship or cooperative education placement with an architecture or construction employer.

• Core technical subjects: Statics and materials, structural behaviour, building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing), construction materials and methods.
• Design and digital skills: Architectural graphics, CAD, BIM modelling, digital fabrication, technical detailing and documentation.
• Professional and applied topics: Building codes, construction management fundamentals, estimating, specifications, sustainability and life‑cycle considerations.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent with strong preparation in mathematics (algebra and geometry) and a physics background is advantageous. Admissions typically consider academic record, school transcripts and any submitted programme or technical portfolios demonstrating drafting, drawing, CAD or design work if available.

International applicants will need to demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or institutional pathways. Where standardised test scores (such as SAT/ACT) are requested, the programme accepts them as part of a wider application; specific score thresholds are not stated here. Mature applicants with relevant technical or work experience are considered on an individual basis.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of technical and coordination roles across architecture, engineering and construction sectors. Common job titles include Architectural Technologist, BIM Coordinator/Modeler, CAD Technician, Specification Writer, Estimator, Construction Project Coordinator and Facilities/Building Systems Technician.

Employment settings include architecture and engineering firms, general and specialty contractors, building product manufacturers, consultancies with a focus on sustainability or building performance, and public-sector building departments. The programme’s applied focus also provides a foundation for further professional certification or postgraduate study in areas such as construction management, structural engineering technology or advanced BIM and digital design.

Why study at University of Hartford

The University of Hartford’s engineering and architecture programmes emphasise experiential learning in studios and well‑equipped labs, with faculty who bring professional industry experience into teaching. Small class sizes support close faculty mentorship and practical project work. Students benefit from industry links in the Hartford and broader New England region, which help secure internships and cooperative placements.

The programme’s integration of design, technology and building systems provides strong preparation for technical roles on multidisciplinary teams, and the university offers career services and networking opportunities to assist transitions into the workplace. Interdisciplinary collaboration with related departments gives students access to complementary skills in architecture, civil engineering and construction management.