Architecture–Engineering–Construction Management

The Bachelor of Science in Architecture–Engineering–Construction Management at Carnegie Mellon University offers a unique interdisciplinary curriculum designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the architecture, engineering, and construction industries. This program blends rigorous academic coursework with practical hands-on experiences, equipping students with a comprehensive understanding of the entire building process, from initial design and planning to construction execution and facility management. Students will engage with foundational subjects such as design principles, structural engineering, materials science, and environmental sustainability, alongside advanced topics like project management, cost estimation, and construction technology. Emphasizing innovation and collaboration, the program encourages teamwork across disciplines, fostering skills essential for modern construction projects that require integrated solutions. Through laboratory work, design studios, and real-world internships, students gain valuable experience in using cutting-edge tools and software, preparing them to address complex challenges in designing sustainable, functional, and aesthetically appealing structures. The curriculum also promotes entrepreneurial thinking and leadership development, ensuring graduates are capable of managing multidisciplinary teams and navigating the evolving landscape of urban development and infrastructure. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and industry partnerships, students have numerous opportunities to apply their knowledge in practical settings and establish professional networks. Upon graduation, students are well-equipped to pursue careers in architecture firms, engineering consultancies, construction companies, and project management agencies or to continue their education in related graduate programs. The interdisciplinary nature of this program reflects Carnegie Mellon University’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and social impact, preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to the built environment and to lead the future of construction and design industries.

Pre- & Co-requisites Courses

• Project Management for Construction
• Engineering Economics
• Statistical Reasoning & Practice 
• Paradigms of Research in Architecture (9)

Core Courses

• Value Based Design in AEC
• Management: Embeded Commissioning (9)
• Special Topics: Building Information
• Models & UT-based Analysis for Construction 
• Knowledge Management in Architecture & Planning
• Practicum
• Summer Internship

Restricted Electives Courses

• Probability & Estimation Methods for Engineering Systems
• Civil Systems Investment Planning & Pricing
• Real Estate Design & Development
• Infrastructure Management

Elective Courses

• Data Management
• Building Performance Modeling 
• Productivity, Health & the Quality of Buildings
• Special Topics: Ecological Footprints 
• Special Topics in CD: Parametric Modeling with BIM 
• Zero Energy Housing
• Environmental Life Cycle Assessment and Green Design
• Advanced Life Cycle Assessment 
• Sustainable Engineering Project
• Sustainable Design Synthesis Prep 

Management Courses

• Business Management
• Engineering and Technology Innovation
• Finance for Innovation Management
• Life Cycle, Taxation, and Asset Management
• Operations Management 
• Organizational Learning and Strategic Management
• Management Methods
• Organizational Management

Synthesis 

• AECM Synthesis
• Architecture Design Studio AECM UDBS
• AECM Synthesis Theory
• AECM Synthesis 
• UDBS for AECM MS

BEFORE OUR ONLINE APPLICATION OPENS IN OCTOBER:

• Review the AECM program information;
• Take the GRE exam as early as possible (and the TOEFL exam if you are a non-native English speaker); and
• Ask permission from three referees who can support your application before assigning them as references.

ON OR AROUND OCTOBER 15:

Begin your online application. You do not have to complete all sections of the online application at once. You can revisit the online application by clicking on the link emailed to you by our online system.

BEFORE OUR APPLICATION DEADLINE OF JANUARY 15:

• Contact Education Testing Services to send your GRE scores (and TOEFL scores) directly to our department, using the institution code 2074, GRE department code 4401, and TOEFL department code 12. Or contact the British Council to send your IELTS scores to:
  • Attn: Samantha Weaver
    Graduate Programs
    School of Architecture
    Carnegie Mellon University
    Margaret Morrison Carnegie Hall, Room 412G
    Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
• Assign three references to your application
• Upload the following:
  1. Statement of Purpose (2 pages recommended max)
  2. Copy of unofficial transcript(s)
  3. Copy of GRE (and TOEFL/IELTS) scores
  4. Resume/CV
• Pay the $75 application fee
• Verify that you have completed all of the above. Our graduate committee will only review your application once we have received all required documents. 

Financing studies for the Architecture–Engineering–Construction Management program at Carnegie Mellon University are designed to support enrolled students through a variety of financial aid options, scholarships, assistantships, and loan programs. Undergraduate students are encouraged to apply for federal and state financial aid programs by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is essential for determining eligibility for need-based grants and loans. Carnegie Mellon University also offers institutional scholarships based on academic merit, leadership, and financial need, which can significantly offset tuition costs.

Graduate students in the program have access to a range of funding opportunities, including research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and fellowships that provide a stipend and tuition remission. These assistantships are awarded competitively and may require students to assist faculty with research projects, teaching responsibilities, or departmental activities. Additionally, students may be eligible for external scholarships and fellowships provided by industry organizations, foundations, or government agencies, which can supplement university funding and reduce the financial burden.

Loan programs are available through federal and private sources, allowing students to finance their education over time with manageable repayment options. The university's financial aid office offers comprehensive guidance on loan applications, repayment plans, and financial planning tools to ensure students can make informed decisions about financing their studies.

Students are also encouraged to seek employer tuition assistance if they are currently employed in related industries, as some organizations may offer educational benefits or sponsorship programs. Furthermore, Carnegie Mellon University periodically updates its financial aid offerings and awards based on funding availability and strategic priorities, aiming to make quality education accessible to a diverse student body.

Overall, the financing of studies in this program involves a combination of institutional aid, external scholarships, federal and private loans, and personal resources, with an emphasis on providing comprehensive support tailored to each student's financial situation. By leveraging these resources, students can focus more on their academic and professional development while managing the costs associated with their education at Carnegie Mellon University.

The Bachelor of Science in Architecture–Engineering–Construction Management at Carnegie Mellon University combines coursework from the College of Engineering and the School of Architecture, providing a comprehensive education in the design, construction, and management of building projects. This interdisciplinary program prepares students to address the complex challenges faced in the architecture, engineering, and construction industries by integrating technical knowledge with design and management skills. Throughout their studies, students engage in a rigorous curriculum that includes subjects such as structural engineering, construction methods and materials, building information modeling, project management, sustainable design, and architectural principles. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through design studios, laboratory work, and industry projects, enabling students to apply theoretical concepts in practical settings. Carnegie Mellon’s strong industry connections and state-of-the-art facilities facilitate internships, cooperative education, and research opportunities, giving students real-world experience before graduation. Graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers as architects, construction managers, building engineers, or project coordinators, or to continue their education in graduate programs. The program’s integration of engineering, architecture, and construction management fosters innovative thinking, technical proficiency, and leadership skills, aiming to meet the increasing demand for professionals capable of managing complex interdisciplinary projects in sustainable and technologically advanced environments.