University of Kansas

Architectural engineering is the engineering discipline concerned with the planning, analysis, design, construction, and operation of engineered systems for commercial, industrial, institutional, and large residential facilities. Engineered systems include electric power, communications, and control; lighting and acoustics; heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC); fire and life safety; structural systems; and green buildings and sustainability.

Architectural engineering at KU is a challenging ABET-accredited four-year course of study that leads to a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering (BS ARCE). At KU, the BS ARCE program is administered by the School of Engineering in consultation with the School of Architecture & Design. Undergraduate students in the ARCE program have full access to the resources in both schools including scholarships, courses, computer and instructional laboratories, shops, student organizations and activities, and libraries.

ARCE students that have an interest in architecture as well as engineering can get both the professional ABET-accredited BS ARCE degree and NAAB-accredited Master of Architecture (M ARCH) degrees at KU in six years, which includes a required summer of study. This dual degree option is possible because of the architectural design, history, and building technology courses that ARCE students are required to take from the architecture faculty as well as the close relationship between engineering and architecture at KU. Architectural engineering is a rigorous degree program. Entering students should be prepared to have their studies and studio activities consume most of their time and energy. However, graduates find rewarding and fulfilling careers upon graduation.