Architectural Sciences (Concentration in Built Ecologies)

The Bachelor of Science in Architectural Sciences with a Concentration in Built Ecologies at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute offers students a comprehensive interdisciplinary education centered on sustainable design, ecological systems, and innovative architecture. This program is designed for students who are passionate about shaping the future of the built environment through environmentally responsible and socially conscious practices. Throughout the curriculum, students explore the integration of ecological principles into architecture, urban planning, and construction processes, emphasizing sustainable development and green building strategies. The program combines rigorous coursework in architectural sciences, environmental systems, engineering, and design with hands-on projects and research opportunities. Students engage with cutting-edge topics such as renewable energy integration, eco-friendly materials, resilient infrastructure, and sustainable urban design. Collaborative projects with faculty and industry partners prepare students to address real-world challenges related to climate change, resource conservation, and ecological impact. The program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking, technical proficiency, and innovation, equipping graduates to become leaders in sustainable architecture and ecological urban planning. With a focus on experiential learning, students gain practical skills through laboratory work, design studios, and internships. Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in architectural firms, environmental consulting, urban planning agencies, and research institutions dedicated to promoting built ecologies that harmonize human activity with natural ecosystems. The Bachelor’s degree earned through this program serves as a strong foundation for advanced studies or professional certification in fields related to sustainable development, environmental design, and ecological architecture. Ultimately, the program aims to foster environmentally aware professionals who can contribute to creating resilient, sustainable, and livable communities for the future.

Fall

• ARCH 6310 - Environmental History and Theory Credit Hours: 3
• ARCH 6320 - Built Ecologies 1 Credit Hours: 3
• ARCH 6340 - Material Systems and Productions Credit Hours: 3
• ARCH 6350 - Design Research Studio Credit Hours: 4
• ARCH 6810 - Research Design Seminar Credit Hours: 2

Spring

• ARCH 6330 - Built Ecologies 2 Credit Hours: 3
• ARCH 6360 - Interdisciplinary Research Studio Credit Hours: 4

• (See footnote 1 below)

• ARCH 6900 - Graduate Thesis Seminar Credit Hours: 2
• ARCH 6980 - Master’s Project Credit Hours: 1 to 9

• (See footnote 2 below)

• or

• ARCH 6990 - Master's Thesis Credit Hours: 5-6

• (See footnote 2 below)

Summer

• Thesis/Project Completion + Presentation

The degree requires 30 credit hours.

Footnotes

1. The Interdisciplinary Research Studio is comprised of a design research investigation and may consist of a faculty led group project or be part of an ongoing interdisciplinary faculty research project approved by the program committee.
2. Both the Master’s Thesis and the Research Project are individual projects that will be conducted alongside or within current research streams at the School or Institute, however, the research project may also be conducted within a larger interdisciplinary research group or project.

Requirements

1. Nonrefundable application processing fee of $75.
2. Statement of Background and Goals
3. Resume or curriculum vitae.
4. Two letters of recommendation.
5. Writing samples, if required by department.
6. IT Background Evaluation form (IT only).
7. Copies of official test scores (GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE)
8. Copies of official transcripts and evidence of degrees earned, in English and in the native language, of all post-secondary education (including transcript keys)
9. Copy of your passport (international students only)
10. GRE general test
11. TOEFL score of 230 CBT/88 iBT/570 PBT (IELTS 6.5 or PTE 60)
12. M.S. - Portfolio of work or appropriate qualifications and experience in architecture or related fields

Scholarships

Teaching Assistants

Students assist Rensselaer faculty in their classroom and laboratory activities, gaining valuable experience as researchers, scholars, and teachers. Departments provide stipends and full-tuition waivers. Master’s students may spend a maximum of one year with internal support; doctoral students may spend a maximum of two years with internal support. Continued support can then be provided by means of research assistantships.

Research Assistants

Students work with the faculty in research-related tasks that further the student’s own graduate career and development as a researcher, scholar, and professional. Research assistants are paid a stipend and are given a full waiver of tuition.

Graduate Fellowships

Outstanding students may be awarded a university-supported Rensselaer Graduate Fellowship Award, which carries a full-tuition and fees scholarship and a minimum stipend of $21,500 per academic year. Students are nominated by their departments for Rensselaer Graduate Fellowship consideration.

Graduate Education Program (Russia)

Selected GEP Scholarship students are eligible for a renewable scholarship in the amount of 1,38 mln. rubles per year. Students in science and engineering fields are eligible for GEP funding. For application details and deadlines, please visit http://educationglobal.ru/en/. Applicants must be admitted to Rensselaer prior to finalizing the application for the GEP program.

The Bachelor of Science in Architectural Sciences with a Concentration in Built Ecologies at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is an interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students for innovative careers in the field of architecture, sustainable design, and ecological systems. This program emphasizes the integration of ecological principles within architectural practice, focusing on sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and the utilization of advanced technologies to create environmentally responsive structures. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of both the technical aspects of building design and the ecological impacts of construction, enabling them to develop solutions that are both functional and environmentally sustainable.

Throughout the program, students explore core topics such as environmentally conscious building materials, energy-efficient design strategies, renewable energy integration, and the analysis and modeling of ecological systems within urban and rural contexts. The curriculum combines coursework across disciplines like architecture, environmental science, civil engineering, and urban planning, fostering a holistic understanding of built environments within ecological frameworks. Hands-on projects, design studios, and collaborative research initiatives are integral components, ensuring that students apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems.

The program also emphasizes the importance of innovative design thinking, sustainability practices, and cutting-edge research methodologies. Students are encouraged to participate in internships, research projects, and community engagement activities that advance their understanding of ecological design principles in practice. Graduates of this concentration are well-equipped to pursue careers in ecological consulting, sustainable design firms, environmental planning agencies, or to continue further studies in graduate programs related to architecture, environmental science, or urban planning.

The faculty involved includes experts in architecture, environmental sciences, and sustainability, providing students with mentorship and insight into current challenges and opportunities within ecological and built environment fields. State-of-the-art facilities, including design laboratories, sustainable building labs, and computational modeling centers, support a comprehensive educational experience. Overall, the program fosters innovative thinking, technical expertise, and a deep commitment to sustainability, preparing graduates to become leaders in reshaping the built environment toward more sustainable and ecologically integrated futures.