Mission The Graduate Program in Design and Energy Conservation is aimed at advanced understanding of the theory and principles relating to design, energy conservation, and research methods applicable in different climatic regions throughout the world. Research activities include development of site survey methods, field test instruments, and new computer programs for specialized research methods and energy systems.
Facilities and Resources Theoretical learning is verified by empirical research in the appropriate School facilties: the Center for Design & Energy Conservation, the House Energy Doctor (HED) program, the Heliodon (24-ft. hemisphere for solar simulation), an outdoor thermal comfort test site with advanced data acquisition instrumentation with state-of-the-art wireless sensor technology, and the Artificial Uniform Overcast Sky Simulator apparatus (1,200 ft.-candles) for daylight testing and photometric measurements. In addition, the program emphasizes hands-on learning experiences based on laboratory teaching and field investigation formats. Applied research is furthered by students mastering computer simulation methods specific to this region yet adaptable to diverse climates in other regions of the world. Interdisciplinary research is pursued in collaboration with the UA Office of Arid Land Studies and Dept. of Aerospace & Mechanical Engineering.
Curriculum Fall 1 ARC 601: Research Studio 6 credits Required support courses: ARC 561d: Computer Energy Analysis 3 credits ARC 597a: Research Methods 3 credits 12 credits
Spring 1 ARC 900: Graduate Research 6 credits Required support course: ARC 561e: Advanced Computer Energy Analysis 3 credits Elective* course: ARC 597b: Special Projects in Architecture Architecture advanced elective Landscape Architecture advanced elective Elective from other discipline, as relevant 3 credits 12 credits
Fall 2 ARC 909 or ARC 910: Graduate Thesis 8 credits Elective* course: Architecture advanced elective Landscape Architecture elective Elective from other discipline, as relevant 3 credits 11 credits
TOTAL 35 credits
*Choice of electives is made in consultation with faculty advisor. NOTE: Graduate College policy stipulates that a maximum of 3 credit units of an internship or independent study course may be counted toward the degree.
For further information concerning the graduate program concentration in design and energy conservation, please contact:
Nader Chalfoun, Professor and Coordinator, Graduate Program in Design and Energy Conservation School of Architecture Architecture 220 The University of Arizona Tucson, AZ 85721-0075 520.621.6740 chalfoun@u.arizona.edu
For information about the School's participation in the 2009 Solar Decathlon, consult the UASD website.
