Master of Science in Sustainable Building Design and Operation
Focus on creating and operating high-performing buildings through energy efficiency, building systems optimization and sustainable design principles. Learn to improve building performance while balancing environmental and economic goals.
Master of Science in Sustainable Building Design and Operation
Purdue University’s online Master of Science in Sustainable Building Design and Operation prepares experienced engineers to tackle real-world challenges and lead in their fields through a flexible, interdisciplinary approach. Students can customize their studies by selecting from various specialties to advance their technical and management expertise while accelerating their careers.
Master of Science in Sustainable Building Design and Operation Overview
Purdue University’s online Master of Science (MS) in Sustainable Building Design and Operation prepares graduates to design energy-efficient, sustainable, and comfortable buildings suited to a wide range of climates and geographic contexts. Students gain advanced expertise in building energy and performance modeling using state-of-the-art simulation tools, enabling them to make informed, data-driven design decisions.
The program emphasizes the integration of building envelopes, mechanical systems, and smart building controls to optimize overall building operation. In addition, graduates learn to balance indoor environmental quality — including thermal comfort, lighting, acoustics and air quality — with energy performance, ensuring that building designs are both high-performing and responsive to occupant well-being.
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The cost of attending Purdue varies depending on where you choose to live, enrollment in a specific program or college, food and travel expenses, and other variables. The Office of the Bursar website shows estimated costs for the current aid year for students by semester and academic year. These amounts are used in determining a student’s estimated eligibility for financial aid. You can also use our tuition calculator to estimate tuition costs.
Curriculum
Core Curriculum and Foundational Courses (15 credits):
Includes courses in lighting design, smart building systems, building controls and energy performance.
Technical Depth Courses (9 credit hours):
Offers a wide selection across engineering departments.
Professional and Applied Courses (6 credit hours):
Focus areas like technical writing, project management and leadership development.
Source: LightcastTM (2025). Unique job postings for July 2024-25. Projected growth for years 2019-2029.
Top Job Titles
Roles in sustainable building design and operation include program manager, sustainability engineer and chief sustainability officer, each contributing expertise to guide in efficient and environmentally sound decisions.
Top Industries
Several major industries offer pathways for professionals with a Master of Science in Sustainable Building Design and Operation, including construction, manufacturing and distribution.
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