The Master of Design-Build program at Auburn University has a successful history of cross-disciplinary education; having graduated students from across the world. As of the 2009-2010 academic year, the program features a refined focus that is unique; jointly housed in the School of Architecture and the McWhorter School of Building Science. Through current models of professional practice, it delivers the development and study of high performance projects in the built environment via a dynamically collaborative and integrated framework.
As the name suggests, ‘design-build’ is a well established model of practice that facilitates integrated delivery. In addition, however, the program will also approach delivery from a broad perspective that will encompass a variety of other current and successful models founded upon the integration of the disciplines. Among other tools, the program will capitalize on a new generation of digital resources such as BIM, parametric modeling, web-based shared work environments, and other innovations to facilitate collaboration. It proposes to make disciplinary boundaries more fluid, and to feature partnerships and shared expertise. In doing so, it also proposes to be preparatory for selected certification components associated with the U.S. Green Building Council and the Design-Build Institute of America.
Commensurate with its mission, the Master of Design-Build will be offered through two tracks: one based on a studio teaching format and designed for graduates aiming for a design-based career path; the other grounded in construction management and designed for graduates interested in a construction-based career path. Each track includes significant collaborative opportunities in the design studio and classroom. Both tracks are three semesters (Fall-Spring-Summer), after which successful candidates would be awarded the Master of Design-Build degree.