Program Overview

The architectural engineering degree at the University of Kansas (KU) offers a comprehensive education that bridges the gap between architecture and engineering. This architectural engineering degree equips students with the technical expertise and creative insight needed to design, construct, commission, and maintain high-performance buildings. By integrating engineering analysis with architectural context, students develop a holistic understanding of how structural, mechanical, electrical, and lighting systems function together within complex facilities.

Within this architectural engineering major, students focus on the engineered systems that make buildings safe, comfortable, energy efficient, and resilient. The curriculum emphasizes structural systems, building mechanical systems, electrical power and lighting, and integrated building design. Through coursework and laboratory experiences, students learn to address challenges such as energy performance, occupant comfort, indoor environmental quality, and system reliability. This systems-based approach ensures that graduates of KU’s architectural engineering programs understand not only individual components, but also how those systems interact within the built environment.

Architectural engineering professionals play a pivotal role in shaping sustainable and resilient communities. At KU, the architectural engineering degree emphasizes analytical rigor and practical application. Students apply mathematics, physics, and engineering science to real building scenarios, modeling loads, airflow, thermal performance, lighting levels, and electrical distribution. Hands-on design studios and team-based projects mirror professional practice, requiring students to collaborate with architects, civil engineers, and construction professionals to deliver integrated solutions.

A defining feature of the architectural engineering degree is its strong foundation in both theory and application. Students gain proficiency in modern engineering software, building information modeling tools, and simulation platforms used throughout the industry. These experiences prepare each future architectural engineer to evaluate design alternatives, optimize system performance, and make data-driven decisions that improve safety and sustainability.

Research and innovation are also central to the student experience. Faculty expertise spans building systems engineering, structural engineering, energy performance, and sustainable design. Students in the architectural engineering major may engage in research addressing energy-efficient buildings, advanced materials, smart systems integration, and strategies that reduce environmental impact. These opportunities help position KU among leading architectural engineering schools preparing graduates for a rapidly evolving profession.

Learn more about KU

Undergraduate

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For more information about the program, visit the program page below.

Architectural Engineering, BS

KU School of Engineering

The Bachelor’s in Architectural Engineering is part of the School of Engineering, where new technologies are developed to solve the problems facing the world.

Bachelor’s in Architectural Engineering Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the architectural engineering degree program will be able to:

  • Apply principles of mathematics, science, and engineering to analyze and design building structural and environmental systems.
  • Design building systems and components that meet specified needs while considering public health, safety, welfare, and global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors.
  • Conduct experiments and interpret data to evaluate building system performance.
  • Communicate effectively with diverse audiences in written, visual, and oral formats.
  • Function effectively on multidisciplinary teams to produce integrated building designs.
  • Recognize ethical and professional responsibilities and make informed engineering judgments.
  • Acquire and apply new knowledge as needed using appropriate learning strategies in professional practice.

What Careers Are Possible with a Bachelor’s in Architectural Engineering?

Graduates with an architectural engineering degree pursue careers in structural engineering, building mechanical system design, electrical and lighting system design, construction engineering, and integrated building design consulting. Many work for engineering consulting firms, design-build contractors, facility owners, or government agencies.

Labor market data from Lightcast indicates strong demand for professionals in building systems and structural engineering roles. National median earnings for related roles are commonly around or above $80,000 annually, with higher earning potential based on experience, licensure, and specialization. Career pathways for an architectural engineer often expand with professional licensure and project leadership experience.

Tuition and Financial Aid

KU offers competitive tuition rates and financial aid options for students pursuing an Architectural Engineering degree. Scholarships, grants, and loans are available to eligible students. For more information, visit KU Financial Aid.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the architectural engineering degree program at KU requires meeting general university freshman and transfer admission standards. Additionally:

Freshmen

  • 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
  • Demonstrate mathematics preparedness by:
    • Obtaining a mathematics ACT score of 22+ (or math SAT score of 540+), OR
    • Achieving a B or better in college algebra or a more advanced mathematics course, OR
    • Achieving a C or better in a high school calculus course; OR
    • Earning credit via IB or AP credit for the above-mentioned courses in accordance with KU placement credit requirements; OR
    • Achieving at minimum a qualifying score for MATH 104 on the ALEKS mathematics placement exam.

Transfers

  • Earn a grade of C- or better in MATH 125 (Calculus I, or its direct equivalent), AND
  • Earn grades of C or better in math, science, and engineering courses applicable to the engineering degree.

For detailed admission requirements, visit KU Admissions.

Student Life and Learning Experience

Students in the architectural engineering major benefit from a collaborative and professionally focused learning environment. Opportunities for involvement include:

  • American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Student Chapter
  • Architectural Engineering Institute (AEI) Student Chapter
  • Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) Student Chapter
  • Multidisciplinary design competitions and project teams

Participation in these organizations enhances technical skills, leadership development, and professional networking within the broader architectural engineering community.

Bachelor’s in Architectural Engineering Sample Courses

Coursework within the architectural engineering degree includes topics such as:

  • Computer-Assisted Building Design
  • Building Materials Science
  • Building Thermal Science
  • HVAC&R Systems Design

A comprehensive list of courses and degree requirements is available in the KU Catalog.

Bachelor’s in Architectural Engineering Frequently Asked Questions

When should I apply?

Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis.

How long will it take to complete the degree?

Students typically complete this degree in four years.

Contact Information

KU School of Engineering studyengineering@ku.edu 785-864-3881

Accreditation & Notes

The Architectural Engineering Bachelor of Science program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET under the commission’s General Criteria and Program Criteria for Architectural and Similarly Named Engineering Programs.

A Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering is the official degree awarded, and references to “architectural engineering degree” or similar terms are used for clarity and student understanding.