Program Overview
Auburn University's Environmental Design program integrates sustainable practices with design and systems thinking. It prepares students for careers in architecture, planning, construction, and environmental design, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration, global perspectives, and hybrid practices. The program's core courses, directed electives, and free electives provide a comprehensive foundation and allow for customization.
Program Outline
Environmental Design (ENVD) at Auburn University
Degree Overview:
The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Design (ENVD) at Auburn University is a multi-disciplinary program that focuses on the integration of sustainable practices with comprehensive design and systems thinking. It prepares students for careers in various fields related to human-designed environments, including architecture, planning, construction, and environmental design. The program emphasizes:
- Interdisciplinary approach: Blends knowledge from design, construction, and business disciplines.
- Global perspective: Covers national and global environmental design issues.
- Hybrid practices: Includes traditional design methods alongside emerging technologies.
- Sustainability: Focuses on creating sustainable and resilient environments.
Outline:
The ENVD program consists of a combination of core courses, directed electives, and free electives. The core courses provide students with a foundation in design principles, construction techniques, and environmental awareness. The directed electives allow students to focus on specific areas of interest within the field, such as architecture, landscape architecture, or urban planning. The free electives allow students to customize their educational experience and pursue their individual interests.
Specific Courses:
- Freshman Year:
- English Composition I & II
- History Core I & II
- Introduction to Design and Design Methods
- Core Science I & II
- Directed Elective 1 & 2
- Free Elective
- Sophomore Year:
- Core Literature (Humanities)
- Core Humanities (Philosophy)
- Environmental Design Workshop I
- Core Science II
- Directed Elective 3
- Free Elective
- Design, Invention and Society or The Art of Architecture, Place, and Culture
- Social Science
- Free Elective(s)
- Environmental Design Concepts and Practices I
- Free Elective
- Junior Year:
- Core Social Science
- Environmental Design Workshop II - Capstone
- Environmental Design Concepts and Practices II
- Civic Engagement and Research Methods
- Free Elective
- Element of Design Thinking and Communication
- Free Elective
- Senior Year:
- Core Humanities
- Free Elective
- Creed to Succeed
- Directed Elective 4 & 5
- Free Elective
Assessment:
The ENVD program uses various assessment methods to evaluate student learning outcomes. These methods include:
- Formative assessment: Ongoing feedback throughout the semester through critiques, assignments, and quizzes.
- Summative assessment: Final exams, presentations, and projects at the end of the semester.
- Portfolio review: Students compile a portfolio of their work throughout the program, which is reviewed by faculty and industry professionals.
Teaching:
The ENVD program features a diverse faculty with expertise in various areas of design, construction, and environmental awareness. The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Studio-based learning: Students work on real-world projects in collaborative studio environments.
- Lectures and seminars: Provide theoretical and historical foundation in the field.
- Field trips and research opportunities: Students gain hands-on experience and engage in research projects.
Careers:
Graduates of the ENVD program are prepared for careers in a wide range of fields, including:
- Architecture: Architects design buildings and other structures, taking into account functional, aesthetic, and environmental considerations.
- Landscape Architecture: Landscape architects design outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, and public plazas.
- Urban Planning: Urban planners work to develop and manage the growth of cities and towns.
- Environmental Design: Environmental designers focus on creating sustainable and resilient built environments.
- Construction Management: Construction managers oversee the construction of buildings and other infrastructure projects.
- Related fields: Graduates can also pursue careers in related fields such as interior design, graphic design, and product design.
Other:
- The program requires two summers of coursework for the Environmental Design Workshop series.
- Students are encouraged to utilize free electives to earn a minor and customize their educational experience.
- The program emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and community involvement.
- Graduates of the ENVD program are well-prepared for graduate studies in design, planning, and construction-related programs.
