CERTIFICATE IN BUILDING SCIENCE
Building science at USC recognizes that exemplary architecture requires a creative response to natural forces, based on informed good judgment in the areas of architectural technology. The Certificate in Building Science is intended as a supplement for students enrolled in graduate course work in architecture, landscape architecture, historic preservation, urban planning or related discipline.
Completion of the certificate requires a minimum of 14 units. Students must take three core courses. Electives in building science may be taken to complete the program requirements.
Related Links: Application Instructions & Requirements, Application Deadlines
Following is the program curriculum for the 2023-2024 Academic Year. For previous years, please consult the online USC Catalogue archive.
- REQUIRED COURSES
511L Building Systems (4 units), or
611 Advanced Building Systems Integration (4 units)
513L Seminar: Advanced Structures (4 units), or
613L Seminar: Structure Research (4 units)
515L Seminar: Advanced Environment Systems (4 units), or
615L Seminar: Environment Systems Research (4 units)
Electives in Building Science (2 units)
- SAMPLE ELECTIVES (OR AS APPROVED BY PROGRAM FACULTY ADVISOR OR DIRECTOR)
507 Theories of Computer Technology (3 units)
517 Current Topics in Building Science (1, max 6 units)
518 Advanced Surface Tectonics: Methods in Material and Enclosure (2 units)
519 Sustainability in the Environment: Infrastructures, Urban Landscapes, and Buildings (3 units)
573 Seismic Design (2 units)
577L Lighting Design (4 units)
One from the list of required courses that was not yet selected (4 units)
Note: Required courses for this certificate cannot also be required courses in the student's major in the School of Architecture.
The USC Catalogue is the document of authority for all students. The program requirements listed in the USC Catalogue supersede any information which may be contained in any bulletin of any school or department. The university reserves the right to change its policies, rules, regulations, requirements for graduation, course offerings and any other contents of this catalogue at any time.