Carnegie Mellon University

Overview

Carnegie Mellon University offers a Master of Science in Building Performance & Diagnostics (MSBPD), designed to equip students with the skills to assess, model, and enhance the performance of buildings and communities. This research-centric program emphasizes building science, diagnostics, and evidence-based decision-making, fostering a more resilient and sustainable built environment.

What you'll study

The curriculum focuses on advanced research methods and performance-oriented coursework. Core subjects typically include:

• Paradigms of Research in Architecture
• Building Performance Modeling
• Performance of Advanced Building Systems
• Empirical Methods for Public Policy & Management
• Management Science II: Decision Risk Modeling

Additional requirements: Students are generally required to complete further degree components, such as electives and a culminating research project or thesis, depending on their chosen track and current program guidelines. Verify the specific capstone or thesis requirements for the MSBPD or PhD-BPD track prior to applying.

Entry requirements

While specific GRE/GMAT or GPA thresholds are not detailed, applicants should possess a strong academic background in building science, engineering, architecture, or other related quantitative disciplines.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSBPD program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in building performance analysis, sustainability consulting, and architectural engineering, among other fields. The skills acquired will enable them to contribute significantly to the development of energy-efficient, sustainable, and high-performance buildings and communities.