OBJECTIFS

1. Develop a Strong Understanding of Architectural Engineering Principles

• – Building Design and Construction : Teach students the principles of designing and constructing safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing buildings, with a focus on materials, spatial design, and structural integrity.
• – Structural Engineering : Provide students with the knowledge of structural analysis and design to ensure that buildings are stable and can withstand environmental stresses, such as loads, wind, and seismic activity.
• – Building Systems and Technologies : Equip students with an understanding of the systems that support buildings, including HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), electrical systems, plumbing, and fire safety.
• – Materials Science : Introduce students to the properties of various building materials, including concrete, steel, wood, and sustainable materials, and how to select the appropriate materials for specific building projects.

2. Promote Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Building Practices

• – Sustainable Architecture : Teach students the principles of sustainable architecture, focusing on energy-efficient design, green building materials, and the integration of renewable energy sources (solar, wind, etc.) into buildings.
• – Environmental Impact : Equip students with strategies to reduce the environmental impact of buildings, including waste reduction, energy conservation, and water management.
• – Building Energy Efficiency : Provide students with an understanding of building energy consumption, energy-efficient technologies, and strategies to optimize heating, cooling, and lighting systems in buildings.
• – LEED and Green Building Certifications : Introduce students to the concepts of LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and other green building certification programs, focusing on achieving sustainability in building projects.

3. Enhance Knowledge of Structural Analysis and Engineering

• – Structural Mechanics : Teach students the fundamentals of static and dynamic structural analysis, focusing on forces, moments, shear, and stress in building components.
• – Advanced Structural Design : Provide students with advanced knowledge of designing reinforced concrete, steel, and timber structures, ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations.
• – Seismic and Wind Engineering : Equip students with knowledge of designing buildings that can withstand seismic and wind loads, particularly in areas prone to earthquakes or hurricanes.

4. Develop Expertise in Architectural Systems and Technology

• – Building Information Modeling (BIM) : Introduce students to BIM software, enabling them to design, simulate, and manage building projects digitally, improving collaboration and reducing errors in the construction process.
• – Construction Management : Provide students with the tools to manage construction projects, including scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and quality control.
• – Smart Buildings and Automation : Teach students about the integration of automation technologies in building systems, such as smart lighting, temperature control, and security systems, to enhance user comfort and energy efficiency.

5. Foster Knowledge in Building Codes, Regulations, and Safety Standards

• – Building Codes and Standards : Educate students on the legal requirements and building codes that govern construction, including local, national, and international standards for safety, accessibility, and environmental impact.
• – Safety in Building Design : Teach students how to design buildings that prioritize the safety of occupants, including fire safety, structural integrity, and emergency evacuation planning.
• – Compliance with Accessibility Guidelines : Equip students with knowledge of accessibility guidelines (e.g., ADA – Americans with Disabilities Act) to ensure that buildings are inclusive and accessible to all users.

6. Enhance Problem-Solving and Analytical Skills in Design and Engineering

• – Engineering Design : Teach students to apply engineering principles in the architectural design process, balancing aesthetics, functionality, and technical requirements to develop optimal solutions.
• – Critical Thinking and Decision Making : Foster the ability to think critically and make informed decisions when facing complex engineering challenges in building design and construction.
• – Integration of Architecture and Engineering : Encourage students to seamlessly integrate architectural design with engineering solutions, ensuring that both aspects work harmoniously to create efficient and sustainable structures.

7. Prepare Students for Leadership, Teamwork, and Communication in Architectural Projects

• – Project Management : Equip students with the skills necessary to lead and manage architectural projects, including planning, coordinating, and overseeing all aspects of design and construction.
• – Collaboration and Teamwork : Promote teamwork skills, encouraging students to collaborate with architects, engineers, contractors, and clients to ensure the successful completion of building projects.
• – Effective Communication : Teach students to communicate complex engineering and architectural concepts clearly, both in written reports and oral presentations, to a variety of stakeholders.

8. Encourage Ethical and Social Responsibility in Architectural Engineering

• – Ethics in Engineering and Architecture : Educate students on the ethical issues surrounding the architectural engineering profession, including fairness in contracting, labor practices, environmental responsibility, and sustainability.
• – Social Responsibility in Design : Encourage students to design buildings that meet the needs of society, considering factors such as affordability, accessibility, and social equity.
• – Cultural Sensitivity in Architecture : Foster an understanding of how architectural design can reflect and respect cultural values, community identity, and local traditions.

9. Prepare Students for Career Readiness and Professional Development

• – Internships and Practical Experience : Provide students with opportunities to gain hands-on experience in architectural firms, construction companies, or government agencies through internships, co-op programs, and field studies.
• – Licensing and Professional Certification : Guide students in preparing for professional licensure exams, such as the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) or Engineering License (PE), to become certified professionals.
• – Career Services and Networking : Offer career counseling, resume-building support, and networking opportunities with professionals in architecture and engineering to help students transition into their careers.

10. Promote Lifelong Learning and Continuous Improvement in Architectural Engineering

• – Commitment to Lifelong Learning : Instill the importance of continuous professional development, encouraging students to stay informed about new technologies, materials, and techniques in architectural engineering.
• – Innovation and Adaptability : Encourage students to adapt to changes in technology, environmental standards, and building practices, ensuring that they remain competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.
• – Research and Development : Promote a research-oriented mindset, encouraging students to engage in architectural research that pushes the boundaries of design and sustainability.