UMass Amherst: Building and Construction Technology

Sustainable living is a vital issue on many people’s minds today. Mainstream public and politicians alike have resolved to reduce pollution and waste and reverse global warming. This is particularly true for those in the building industry, whose daily decisions have a critical impact on the health and well-being of the community and the environment.

Building accounts for approximately 40% of U.S. primary energy consumption
(USDOE 2004)

Green Building is a world-wide movement to create cleaner and more energy efficient buildings. From energy and water sustainability to recycling of dumpster debris, the potential impact of providing higher education in this field is tremendous.

At Building and Construction Technology, we focus in our education offerings on professional training in environmentally responsible building practices. You can study this field with us towards a Professional M.S. degree (no thesis), a classic thesis-based masters (M.S.) or a Ph.D. doctorate degree. We also offer online courses.

You will learn:

• Energy conservation methods in residential design
• LEED-certified building requirements
• Design with sustainable building materials
• Green planning and development policies
• Green initiatives on infrastructure, roads and bridges

Courses will naturally come from several disciplines. Students will be required to integrate concepts of resource stewardship, economic vitality, and social equity.

Who should enroll?

• Architects, Engineers, Builders and Building Officials who wish to enhance their knowledge of sustainable building methods and materials.
• Design and construction professionals who desire a deeper understanding of the environmental impact of construction and ways to mitigate it.
• Students in the building field seeking a focused, non-thesis graduate program that allows for interdisciplinary study and practical training.

To learn more and apply:

>> Degree requirements

>> How to apply

Faculty contact:

Peggi Clouston – Sustainable building materials and bio-based composites

Dave Damery – Sustainable building products marketing and economics

Simi Hoque – Energy modeling and building performance diagnostics

Alex Schreyer – Sustainable building materials and building information modeling