MSOE’s Master of Science in Architectural Engineering (MSAE) degree allows specialization in either the analysis and design of building structural systems or the analysis and design of building mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems (MEP). It meets the needs of architectural engineers who desire increased knowledge to design structural or MEP systems for modern buildings. MSAE courses focus on advanced topics on the analysis and design of building systems. For either specialty the student has two options to conclude the program - the Capstone Report Track or the Capstone Project Track. The Capstone Report Track focuses on course work and concludes with a one-quarter, three-credit literature review project. The Capstone Project Track has a larger focus on research and concludes with a three-quarter, nine-credit research project.

A student who selects the Capstone Report Track will complete six required technical courses, six technical electives, and two graduate electives. The student will also complete a one-quarter, three-credit, literature review project on an architectural engineering topic. The student will present the findings of the literature review in both written and oral formats to a faculty review committee.

A student who selects the Capstone Project Track will complete six required technical courses, four technical electives, and two graduate electives. The student will also complete a three-quarter, nine-credit, capstone project focusing on architectural engineering. The project presents the opportunity for the student to integrate the concepts learned in the classroom into a specific application. The project may focus on design issues, research in an area of architectural engineering, or other related topic with the approval of the Master of Science in Architectural Engineering program director. At the conclusion of the project, a comprehensive presentation (oral and written) will be given to a faculty review committee.

Courses are taught by faculty with extensive practical experience as well as academic credentials. Course work has been planned to show practical applications of engineering theory. Classes are scheduled to allow students to attend class while working in industry.

The MSAE program requires that you have completed an undergraduate curriculum that included sufficient background in the chosen specialty. For the MEP Specialty, required topics are fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, basic HVAC, basic plumbing, basic illumination, and building control systems. For the Structural Specialty, required topics are mechanics or materials, indeterminate structural analysis, structural steel design, and reinforced concrete design. The Master of Science in Architectural Engineering program currently is being offered as either a full- or part-time program and can be completed in five years or less.

Faculty

Christine Brotz, Dr. Todd M. Davis, Dr. Richard A. DeVries, Dr. Deborah Jackman, Dr. Mahmoud Maamouri, Douglas Nelson, Dr. Christopher H. Raebel, Dr. Douglas C. Stahl, Dr. Blake Wentz, Dr. John A. Zachar

STUDENT OUTCOMES

At the time of graduation, a MSAE graduate will be able to:

• Perform advanced analysis of complex building systems or processes, related to their specialty, to determine performance and/or design requirements.
• Use advanced design techniques to design complex building systems, related to their specialty, made of many components in accordance with current building codes, regulations, and/or specifications under realistic constraints such as standards of practice, costs, and sustainability.
• Independently complete an architectural engineering project, related to their specialty, addressing the complex requirements of modern buildings and effectively communicate aspects of the work in writing and orally.

PROGRAM EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES

The M.S. Architectural Engineering program creates graduates who:

• Meet the professional expectations set forth in the ASCE Body of Knowledge for the 21st Century position paper.
• Will be able to confidently meet the responsibilities of a professional architectural engineer.
• Will be employable in the field of architectural engineering.
• Will be able to achieve licensure as a professional engineer.
• Will be able to obtain a Ph.D. in architectural engineering, civil engineering, or other field.
• Will continue to improve their skills through lifelong learning.

Curriculum

The Master of Science in Architectural Engineering program is designed to meet the needs of working professionals. Classes are scheduled to allow working professionals to attend.

The Master of Science in Architectural Engineering programs requires completion of 45 graduate credits. At least 30 of these credits will be obtained in engineering courses.

Each student must complete a capstone activity. There are two options for the capstone activity. The first option is the completion of a nine-credit, three-quarter Capstone Project sequence (AE 8900, AE 8910  and AE 8920  in addition to 10 engineering courses (30 credits) and two graduate electives to fulfill the 45-credit requirement. The second option is the completion of a three-credit, one-quarter Capstone Report sequence (AE 8000 ) in addition to 12 engineering courses (36 credits) and two graduate electives to fulfill the 45-credit requirement.