Why Architectural Engineering?

What is Architectural Engineering?

Architectural Engineering (AE) is the design of all aspects of buildings.  The major areas within AE are designing the structural system to hold the building up, designing the mechanical and electrical systems, and managing the construction of the building.  AE is a very interdisciplinary field, involving in all aspects of the design.  Therefore, you need to know something about features of a building. Architectural engineers take courses in architecture so that they are familiar with the "vocabulary" of the architect.  UDM has the AE program with probably the most interdisciplinary set of courses taught by Architects of any program in the U.S. (see courses)

Where do Architectural Engineers Work?

With a degree in architectural engineering, you can choose from a variety of career opportunities including: architectural firms, private engineering consulting companies, mechanical contractors, government, energy efficiency consultants, lighting designers, and construction companies.  There is a great demand for Architectural Engineers in our region, across the nation and around the world.

Why is this a Hot Field?

The Mechanical & Electrical Systems track is the hottest right now because of the focus on green energy.

Mechanical and electrical systems and components represent a major portion of a building's budget and must be carefully selected, designed, and engineered. Michigan has had a major shortage of qualified candidates to undertake this work.   --Stephen Q. Whitney, FAIAE, Chairman Emeritus, Albert Kahn Associates

Because this is a niche field, salary data is not collected by the government.  However, some advertisements for experienced Architectural Engineers are offering $100,000/yr.

I can see a strong demand for graduates of this University of Detroit Mercy program. -- Steven R Berlage | Vice President and General Manager | Turner Construction Company

Uniqueness of UDM's Program

• UDM has the only AE program in the country that requires you to complete a Cooperative employment / Internship experience.  This gives you one year of experience upon graduation.
• AE students take the same first-year classes as Architecture majors.  Therefore, someone can test out both fields and transfer between them without delaying graduation.  This is the only AE program in the country that was found to have the same courses.
• At UDM you get two academic advisors, one who is an engineer and one who is an architect.
• This is the only program in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana where you can get a Bachelor of Architectural Engineering.  Some others only have a focus in Architectural Engineering, or a required master's degree.
• If you want to also earn a master's degree, we have a plan for accomplishing it in one of four areas and finishing in as little as 4 months by August.  Many other master's programs don't have the flexibility that our four degrees have.

See sample student project.

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