Built Environment

Built Environment at Arizona State University offers a comprehensive educational experience designed to prepare students for impactful careers in shaping sustainable, innovative, and resilient urban and regional spaces. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications to address complex challenges faced by modern built environments. Students engage with a broad curriculum that covers urban planning, architecture, landscape design, infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, and community development. The curriculum promotes critical thinking, collaborative problem-solving, and design thinking, equipping graduates with the skills necessary to lead projects that enhance quality of life and promote equity in diverse communities. Through hands-on projects, internships, and research opportunities, students gain real-world experience working alongside professionals, policymakers, and community stakeholders. The program fosters an understanding of the socio-economic, cultural, and environmental factors influencing built environments and prepares students to develop innovative solutions that are sustainable and socially responsible. Arizona State University's Built Environment program is committed to empowering students to become leaders who can create resilient urban systems, optimize resource use, and design spaces that serve the needs of current and future generations. With a focus on inclusivity and sustainability, the program aims to produce graduates capable of influencing policy, advancing technological developments, and implementing best practices in the built environment sector. Graduates are well-positioned to pursue careers in urban and regional planning, architecture, construction management, environmental consulting, or further academic research, contributing positively to communities around the world.

30 credit hours and a thesis, or 
30 credit hours including the required applied project course (ATE 593)

First Year

Fall

• ATE 521 Building Environmental Science (3)
• ATE 550 Passive Heating and Cooling (3)
• ATE 560 Building Energy Analysis (3)

Spring

• ATE 562 Experimental Evaluation (3)
• ATE 582 Environmental Control Systems (3)
• ATE 598 ST: Building Energy Analysis II (3)
• ATE 598 ST: Sustainability of the Built Environment (3)

Second Year

Fall

• ATE 591 Seminar: Energy and Climate (1)*
• ATE 599 Thesis (3-6)**

Spring

• Elective (3)
• ATE 599 Thesis (3-6)**

*This course is not required for the degree; however, it is a recommended elective. Three credits of electives are required.

**Thesis credits can be taken in either fall or spring semesters for a total of six credits. Completing a thesis is optional but strongly recommended; it can be substituted by an applied project of six credits (ATE 593).

Sample List of Electives:

• CEE 598/SOS 598 Applied Data Analysis for Energy Scientists (3), Spring
• CEE 598/SOS 598 Life Cycle Assessment for Civil Systems (3), Spring
• DSC 558 Daylighting (3), Fall

A maximum of three credit hours of internship may be counted toward the electives requirement. The internship and electives have to be approved by the academic advisor.

All applicants must submit an online graduate admission application.

All applicants must have completed a minimum of a baccalaureate or graduate degree from a college or university recognized by ASU, in one of the professions or fields of study outlined below:

• a five- or six-year National Architectural Accrediting Board-accredited professional degree in architecture (BArch or MArch)*
• a four-year Bachelor of Science in landscape architecture, or a master's degree in landscape architecture which must be granted by an institution that offers the Landscape Architectural Accreditation Board-accredited degree program in landscape architecture
• an engineering degree (BS or MS) with a background in building sustainability issues**
• a science degree (BS or MS) with a background in building sustainability issues

*See the NAAB website for more information.

**Mechanical and civil engineering and construction majors are particularly suited for application to this program.

Requirements:

1. Applicants must meet the minimum GPA requirements as established by the Division of Graduate Education.
2. Applicants must provide an official copy of GRE scores (unofficial copies will not be accepted). For more information, visit the GRE website or https://uoeee.asu.edu/testing.
3. Additional application materials can be found online at: http://herbergerinstitute.asu.edu/admissions/grad/applying/.
4. Applicants whose native language is not English (regardless of current residency) are required to submit an official TOEFL score. The minimum score for admission to the program is 80 (Internet-based) or 550 (paper-based). Other information for International applicants can be found on the Division of Graduate Education website.

Admission to the program is selective. Admission to the program cannot be deferred; students must enroll in the semester for which they are admitted. Otherwise, they will need to go through the entire application process again for the year in which they are applying.

A personal interview is not required; however, a candidate wishing to visit the school is welcome and should make arrangements by contacting The Design School.

Applicants must fulfill both the requirements of the Division of Graduate Education and those of the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

• Teaching or Research Assistantships
• Global Education

The Bachelor of Science in Construction Management at Arizona State University prepares students for a dynamic and evolving industry that encompasses the planning, design, and supervision of building projects. This program emphasizes the development of comprehensive skills necessary for managing construction projects efficiently, safely, and sustainably. Students gain in-depth knowledge of construction methods, project management, cost estimation, contracts, and safety regulations, which are essential for effective leadership in the construction sector. The curriculum combines classroom instruction with practical experiences, including internships and collaborative projects, allowing students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios. ASU's state-of-the-art facilities and partnerships with industry leaders provide students with valuable networking opportunities and hands-on training.

The program also highlights innovative construction technologies and sustainable practices, reflecting the industry’s shift towards greener and more efficient building processes. Students learn how to incorporate environmentally responsible practices and new technological advancements such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) into their workflows. The coursework is designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, which are vital for managing complex construction projects and diverse teams.

Faculty members are experienced professionals dedicated to student success and industry relevance. They bring real-world insights into the classroom, ensuring students are well-prepared for employment in various roles within the construction management field. Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue careers in general contracting, project management, construction consulting, and development. They are also prepared to advance to leadership positions or further their education in related fields.

Arizona State University’s location offers proximity to major construction markets in the Southwest, providing students with ample opportunities for internships, co-op programs, and employment post-graduation. The university's commitment to sustainability and innovation aligns with the needs of modern construction environments. Overall, this program aims to produce competent, innovative, and responsible construction management professionals who can contribute positively to the built environment and address the challenges of contemporary construction projects.