Architectural Engineering MSAE
Degree Awarded: Master of Science in Architectural Engineering (MSAE)
Minimum Required Credits: 30.0
Co-op Option: Available for full-time, on-campus master's-level students
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code: 14.0401
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code: 11-9041
About the Program
Graduates of the Architectural Engineering MS program develop an integrated understanding of the engineering principles that govern the design, construction, and operation of buildings. Students gain advanced knowledge of building systems and performance, with emphasis on building energy behavior, energy efficiency and alternative energy strategies, and the quality of indoor environments. The program strengthens analytical, modeling, and design skills while emphasizing systems thinking and the interactions among architectural, structural, mechanical, and environmental considerations. Graduates develop professional judgment, ethical awareness, and the ability to evaluate tradeoffs among performance, sustainability, cost, and occupant experience in complex building projects.
The Architectural Engineering MS program offers a rigorous and applied learning experience that bridges theory and practice in the context of real building systems. Students engage in advanced coursework, design-oriented assignments, and applied analyses that address the performance of buildings across their full life cycle. Instruction emphasizes the integration of multiple building systems rather than isolated components, encouraging students to understand how energy use, environmental quality, and operational strategies interact. Opportunities for independent study and research allow students to pursue specialized interests, explore emerging technologies, and work closely with faculty on interdisciplinary problems relevant to both professional practice and academic inquiry.
Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in consulting, design, research, and industry roles related to building systems, building performance, and sustainable design. The degree supports advancement into professional engineering practice, technical leadership positions, and research-oriented roles. The program also provides strong preparation for doctoral study or other advanced academic pathways. For students pursuing professional licensure, the curriculum supports continued technical development aligned with licensing and certification expectations.
The Architectural Engineering MS program benefits from Drexel’s emphasis on experiential learning and strong connections to professional practice. Applied projects, practice-informed instruction, and interdisciplinary collaboration prepare graduates to work effectively on complex building projects and contribute to the development of functional, efficient, attractive, and sustainable built environments.
Additional Information
For more information about this program, please contact the School of Engineering.
Admission Requirements
MS admission is based on an academic record demonstrating adequate preparation and potential for successful graduate study. This typically includes a BS from an engineering curriculum accredited by the Accrediting Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) or the equivalent from a non-U.S. institution. Submission of results from the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is optional. A grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 is usually required. Graduates who do not have a bachelor's degree in either Civil, Architectural or Environmental Engineering may be required to take preparatory undergraduate courses.
The application package should include:
- Undergraduate and graduate transcripts as applicable
- Two letters of recommendation from faculty or professionals who can evaluate the applicant’s promise as a graduate student
- GRE scores (optional)
- A written statement of career and educational goals
For more information, visit the School of Engineering Graduate Admissions webpage.
Degree Requirements
| Core/Foundational Courses | ||
| Select three of the following courses: | 9.0 | |
| Data-Based Engineering Modeling | ||
| Risk and Reliability | ||
| Life Cycle Assessment and Circular Economy | ||
| Geographic Information Systems | ||
| Artificial Intelligence for CAEE Systems | ||
| Subject-Area Focused Courses | ||
| Select four of the following courses: | 12.0 | |
| HVAC Design | ||
| Indoor Air Quality | ||
| Computational Fluid Dynamics in Buildings | ||
| High Performance Buildings | ||
| Intelligent Buildings | ||
| Electives | ||
| Select one of the following courses: | 3.0 | |
| Peace Engineering | ||
| Foundation Engineering | ||
| Earth Pressures and Retaining Structures | ||
| Design of Earth Structures | ||
| Prestressed Concrete | ||
| Wood and Timber Design | ||
| Advanced Mechanics of Materials | ||
| Advanced Structural Analysis | ||
| Structural Dynamics | ||
| Infrastructure Condition Evaluation | ||
| Outdoor Air Quality | ||
Select any 5800-7800 level AE Special Topics course | ||
Select any 5900-7900 level AE Independent Study course | ||
Select any 5000-7999 level course with advisor approval | ||
| Optional Thesis | ||
| Select one of the following options: | 6.0 | |
| Non-Thesis | ||
Select two additional courses from the above Subject-Area Focused Courses and/or Electives lists | ||
| Thesis | ||
| Master's Research and Master's Thesis | ||
| Optional Co-op Experience | ||
| Co-op is an option for this degree for full-time on-campus students. Students choosing this option will be required to complete COOP 5000 as preparation for their co-op experience. | 0.0 | |
| Total Credits | 30.0 | |
Program Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate advanced proficiency in the analysis and integration of building systems, including energy performance and indoor environmental conditions.
- Apply advanced mathematical, computational, and modeling tools to evaluate and predict building behavior and performance.
- Design and assess building solutions that balance technical performance, sustainability, and occupant needs within real-world constraints.
- Communicate complex technical concepts effectively to diverse audiences and function effectively on interdisciplinary teams.