Program Overview

Program Overview

The Online Graduate Certificate in Energy Conscious Construction is designed for individuals who want to advance their professional credentials in the design and construction of high-performing, energy-efficient, residential buildings.

Program Description

The coursework is comprised of four courses (12 credit-hours) that address:

• Energy modeling and simulation: Analyzing design performance prior to construction.
• Environmental control systems: Integrating energy-efficient environmental control systems into residential building designs.
• Performance benchmarks: Meeting and exceeding state energy code requirements.
• Assemblies & Structural Systems: Integrating high-performing, energy-efficient assemblies into residential building designs.

Courses

Courses are rooted in the fundamentals of building science coupled with the latest industry standards in codes, systems, assemblies, and performance evaluation. Students take four courses – two from the School of Design and Construction in energy modeling and energy codes, one course from the Architecture program in envelope design and detailing, and one course from the Mechanical Engineering program in environmental control systems.

Recognition

The School of Design and Construction’s programs in Energy Conscious Construction (ECC) is nationally recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Zero Energy Design Designation. This recognition ensures that the ECC provides students with a solid foundation in building science and the opportunity to apply that knowledge in the design process through its various assessment methods.

Ideal Candidates

This certificate is ideal for individuals in the following fields:

• Design and Construction
  • Architects
  • Envelope Specialists
  • Interior Designers
  • Landscape Architects
  • Construction Managers
• Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineers
  • Civil Engineers
  • Structural Engineers
  • Environmental Engineers
• Inspection and Maintenance
  • Energy Auditors
  • Building Inspectors
  • Building Officials
  • Energy Raters

Program of Study

All courses are available online through WSU Global Campus during spring and summer semesters. The certificate requires four 3-credit courses (12 credits total). It is recommended that students take three credits in the spring and nine credits in the summer. Students can complete the graduate certificate within one academic year but may take more time as needed. Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 throughout the duration of the certificate.

Required Courses

Prior to beginning the certificate, students will need to complete a 3-hour online module in building science fundamentals.

• ARCH 531 – Advanced Tectonics (Envelope Assemblies)
• SDC 552 – Energy Modelling II
• SDC 541 – Building Energy Codes, Standards, and Rating Systems
• ME 579 – Advanced Topics in Mechanical Engineering (Environmental Control Systems II)

Awarding of the Certificate

At the beginning of the student’s final semester of coursework, the student should apply for the certificate. Certificates require a separate graduation application and are mailed separately from diplomas.