About This Certificate

This certificate program equips students with a set of tools that allows them to achieve international standards in the management area, to successfully manage projects and human resources, and to analyze, evaluate, and improve systems.

Term: 1 to 3 years to graduate

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  • Requirements
  • Course Information

Requirements

Graduate Certificate Requirements:

  • Certificate programs require the completion of twelve credit hours (four designated courses) of 3000-, 4000-, 5000-, and 6000-level lecture courses (1000/2000-level courses cannot be included).

Course Information

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Environmental Building System Courses (Choose Two)

Description

This course delves into the fundamental principles of heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, focusing on comprehensive heat loss and heat gain calculations tailored specifically for commercial buildings. Students will gain hands-on experience in performing these calculations manually and utilizing state-of-the-art computer software. Additionally, the course places a strong emphasis on the analysis and specification of building envelope components, with a primary objective of enhancing energy efficiency through the reduction of heating and cooling loads, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to contribute to sustainable building practices in the field.

Learning Objective

  1. To achieve a deep understanding of HVAC principles as they relate to commercial buildings, encompassing heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems.
  2. To develop proficiency in conducting comprehensive heat loss and heat gain calculations tailored specifically for commercial building spaces, utilizing both manual methods and contemporary computer software.
  3. To gain practical experience through hands-on calculation tasks, applying theoretical knowledge to solve real-world heat loss and gain scenarios.
  4. To become skilled in the analysis and evaluation of building envelope components, with a primary focus on identifying strategies to enhance energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling loads.
  5. To utilize current computer software for accurate and efficient heat loss and gain calculations, enhancing technical expertise in HVAC design and analysis.

Course Content

  • HVAC System Fundamentals for Commercial Buildings
  • Heat Loss and Heat Gain Calculations: Manual and Software-Based Methods
  • Building Envelope Analysis for Enhanced Energy Efficiency
  • Utilizing Computer Software for HVAC Design and Analysis
  • Application of Energy-Efficient HVAC Practices in Commercial Building Design

Course Evaluation Criteria

  • HWs
  • Project
  • Final Exam

Description

This course delves into the comprehensive design aspects of both interior and exterior building electrical systems, encompassing critical elements such as power load calculations, branch circuit configurations, and switching mechanisms. Students will engage in a thorough exploration of relevant industry standards, including NFPA 70 (NEC) and associated building codes, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of electrical system design practices.

Learning Objective

  1. To achieve a deep understanding of HVAC principles as they relate to commercial. To develop a comprehensive understanding of electrical system design, encompassing both interior and exterior building systems.
  2. To achieve proficiency in power load calculations, ensuring electrical systems are appropriately sized to meet diverse building demands.
  3. To master the design and configuration of branch circuits, including distribution and protection strategies, for safe and efficient electrical supply.
  4. To gain expertise in the selection and implementation of switching mechanisms, enabling effective control and management of electrical circuits.
  5. To familiarize oneself with NFPA 70 (NEC), the National Fire Protection Association's National Electrical Code (NEC), and apply its standards in electrical system design.
  6. To understand and apply relevant building codes and regulations governing electrical system design, ensuring compliance with legal and safety requirements.

Course Content

  • Fundamentals of Building Electrical Systems Design
  • Power Load Calculations and Sizing for Electrical Systems
  • Branch Circuit Design and Distribution Strategies
  • Switching Mechanisms for Effective Circuit Control
  • NFPA 70 (NEC) Compliance in Electrical System Design

Course Evaluation Criteria

  • HWs
  • Project
  • Final Exam

Description

Design and specifications for interior and exterior building illumination systems. Work includes the study of applicable NFPA 70 (NEC) and related building codes.

Learning Objective

  1. Architectural Fluency: Develop students' understanding of lighting systems' architectural role, enabling them to design spaces with effective and aesthetic lighting.
  2. Technical Proficiency: Equip students with the technical knowledge and skills to select, implement, and maintain various lighting technologies.
  3. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability: Promote awareness of energy-efficient and sustainable lighting practices, aligning designs with environmental and cost considerations.

Course Content

  • The role of lighting in architecture and interior design.
  • Lighting as a design element: aesthetics, functionality, and ambiance.
  • Historical and contemporary perspectives on architectural lighting.
  • Light Sources and Fixtures
  • Lighting fixtures: selection, placement, and design integration.
  • Lighting controls and dimming technologies.
  • Lighting Design Principles
  • Lighting levels and standards (e.g., IESNA guidelines).
  • Task lighting, accent lighting, and ambient lighting concepts.
  • Lighting calculations and photometrics.
  • Maximizing natural light while minimizing heat gain.
  • Techniques for daylight harvesting and glare control.
  • Benefits of incorporating natural light in building design.
  • Energy-efficient lighting technologies and their advantages.
  • Lighting controls, occupancy sensors, and daylight sensors.
  • Lighting retrofits and sustainability considerations.
  • Introduction to lighting design software tools.
  • Practical exercises using software for lighting simulations and analysis.
  • Integrating energy-efficient lighting solutions into projects.
  • Building codes and regulations related to lighting.
  • Compliance with energy efficiency standards (e.g., LEED certification).

Course Evaluation Criteria

  • Projects

Construction Building System Courses (Choose One)

Description

Introduction to construction planning, selection of equipment and familiarization with standard methods for horizontal and vertical construction. Application of network analysis and schedules to project control.

Learning Objective

  1. To attain a comprehensive understanding of construction planning, equipment selection, and standard methods applicable to horizontal and vertical construction projects.
  2. To acquire practical skills for implementing network analysis and scheduling techniques effectively, ensuring proficient project control and management.
  3. To cultivate problem-solving abilities specific to construction planning, enabling the identification and resolution of real-world challenges.
  4. To optimize project control for enhanced efficiency, timely project delivery, and cost-effectiveness.
  5. To gain hands-on experience through practical exercises and projects, translating theoretical knowledge into practical project management skills.
  6. Integrate uncertainty modeling, analysis, and design into simulations.
  7. To develop knowledge and skills directly relevant to the construction industry, aligning with current industry standards and practices for successful project execution.

Course Content

  • Construction Project Planning Fundamentals
  • Equipment Selection and Deployment Strategies
  • Standard Methods in Horizontal and Vertical Construction
  • Network Analysis and Scheduling Techniques
  • Practical Application in Project Control

Course Evaluation Criteria

  • HWs
  • Term Paper
  • Exams

Description

Legal and business aspects of contracts and contracting procedure in the construction industry. Topics include formulation of contracts in common law, engineering services contracts, construction project contract documents and contract administration issues.

Learning Objective

  1. To gain fundamental knowledge in contract structuring, encompassing the essential components and considerations in constructing contracts within the construction industry.
  2. To acquire foundational knowledge of diverse dispute resolution mechanisms commonly employed in construction, equipping students with an understanding of how conflicts can be addressed.
  3. To develop a basic understanding of identifying and addressing potential legal issues that may arise during construction projects, fostering proactive management of legal challenges.
  4. To cultivate fundamental skills in problem-solving related to conflicts, claims, and disputes prevalent in engineering and construction, enabling effective resolution and mitigation strategies.

Course Content

  • Contract Documents and Procurement
  • Subcontracts and Bidding
  • Construction Planning and Management
  • Contractual Disputes and Resolution Methods

Course Evaluation Criteria

  • HWs
  • Term Paper
  • Exam

Description

Study of construction project development and execution, ranging from preliminary engineering to project turnover. Key topics include bidding strategies, quality control, conceptual estimating, scheduling, progress and cost control, value engineering, safety and construction productivity.

Learning Objective

  1. To master the various stages of construction project development, from preliminary engineering to project turnover, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the entire project lifecycle.
  2. To develop proficiency in strategic bidding strategies, enabling effective decision-making and competitive advantages in project procurement.
  3. To cultivate skills in quality control and assurance, ensuring that construction projects meet or exceed industry standards and client expectations.
  4. To acquire expertise in conceptual estimating techniques, allowing for accurate cost projections during project planning stages.
  5. To gain proficiency in project scheduling and management, including progress tracking and cost control measures for timely and cost-effective project execution.
  6. To explore value engineering principles aimed at optimizing project performance and resource utilization while maintaining quality standards.

Course Content

  • Construction Project Development Stages
  • Strategies for Effective Bidding
  • Quality Control and Assurance in Construction
  • Conceptual Estimating for Project Cost Projections
  • Project Scheduling, Progress Tracking, and Cost Control
  • Value Engineering in Construction

Course Evaluation Criteria

  • HWs
  • Project
  • Exam

Description

Study of the temporary structures and plants used in construction. Key topics include legal implications, codes and regulations, falsework, slip forming, bridge construction supports, and protection of adjacent facilities.

Learning Objective

  1. Provide students with a comprehensive understanding of temporary structures and plant equipment used in construction projects.
  2. Familiarize students with the legal implications, codes, regulations, and safety measures associated with temporary structures and construction equipment.
  3. Equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for designing, implementing, and managing temporary structures, including falsework, slip forming, bridge construction supports, and facility protection.

Course Content

  • Overview of the role of temporary structures and plant equipment in construction projects.
  • Significance of temporary structures in ensuring construction safety and efficiency.
  • Exploration of legal and regulatory requirements for temporary structures.
  • Compliance with codes and standards in construction.
  • Design, installation, and removal of falsework and formwork systems.
  • Safety considerations and load-bearing capacity.
  • Principles and techniques of slip forming in concrete construction.
  • Case studies and applications of slip forming.
  • Analysis and design of supports for bridge construction.
  • Temporary bridge systems and construction staging.
  • Strategies for protecting adjacent structures and facilities during construction.
  • Measures to minimize disruptions to the surrounding environment.
  • Overview of various construction plant equipment
  • Selection and utilization of plant equipment in construction.
  • Safety protocols and risk assessment for temporary structures and plant operations.
  • Emergency response and mitigation measures.
  • Cost estimation for temporary structures and plant equipment.
  • Budgeting and cost control strategies in construction projects.
  • Analysis of real-world construction projects highlighting the use of temporary structures and equipment.

Course Evaluation Criteria

  • HWs
  • Projects
  • Final Exam

Building Management Courses (Choose One)

Description

The transition of the engineer or scientist to manager; study of management roles and theory, organizational systems and behavior, managing and motivating technical personnel, leadership, communication, processes, and customer focus.

Learning Objective

  1. Understand the principles of management and their relevance to engineering and scientific contexts.
  2. Develop leadership skills and apply them to lead technical teams.
  3. Analyze and solve management challenges specific to engineering and scientific projects.
  4. Apply project management techniques to plan and execute technical projects successfully.
  5. Communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including technical and non-technical audiences.
  6. Utilize data-driven approaches for decision-making in engineering and scientific management.

Course Content

  • Introduction to Management for Engineers and Scientists
  • Leadership and Team Dynamics
  • Project Management
  • Decision Analysis and Problem Solving
  • Communication and Stakeholder Management

Course Evaluation Criteria

  • Midterm Exam
  • Final Exam
  • Final Project

Description

Comprehensive treatment of engineering economy including effects of taxation and inflation; sensitivity analysis; decisions with risk and uncertainty; decision trees and expected value, normally includes solutions on personal computer and student problem reports.

Learning Objective

  1. Apply fundamental economic principles to engineering management decisions.
  2. Analyze the economic feasibility of engineering projects.
  3. Evaluate investment alternatives using various financial metrics.
  4. Incorporate risk and uncertainty into decision-making processes.
  5. Use decision analysis techniques to make informed choices.
  6. Develop sensitivity analyses to assess project robustness.
  7. Apply real-world case studies to practice economic decision analysis.

Course Content

  • Introduction to Economic Decision Analysis
  • Evaluation of Engineering Projects
  • Risk and Uncertainty in Decision Analysis
  • Decision Analysis Techniques

Course Evaluation Criteria

  • Assignments
  • Final Exam
  • Final Project

Description

Organization structure and staffing; motivation, authority and influence; conflict management; project planning; network systems; pricing, estimating, and cost control; proposal preparation; project information systems; international project management.

Learning Objective

  1. Understand the fundamental principles and terminology of project management.
  2. Assess leadership styles and their impact on project success.
  3. Identify sources of authority and influence and use them to drive project outcomes.
  4. Utilize project scheduling techniques, such as Gantt charts and network diagrams.
  5. Perform critical path analysis to identify project constraints and risks.
  6. Create project initiation documents and work breakdown structures (WBS).
  7. Create project budgets and implement cost control measures.
  8. Apply earned value management (EVM) to monitor project performance and variances.

Course Content

  • Foundations of Project Management
  • Organizational Structure and Staffing
  • Motivation, Authority, and Influence
  • Conflict Management
  • Project Planning and Scheduling
  • Pricing, Estimating, and Cost Control

Course Evaluation Criteria

  • Midterm Exam
  • Final Exam
  • Final Project

Description

The concepts of Systems Engineering are introduced through a project. Students work in virtual teams. The topics covered are architecture development, basic system architectural design techniques, functional decomposition, design and technical review objectives, and initial specifications.

Learning Objective

  1. Provide the student with an introduction and basic understanding of the central concepts, tools, and processes of systems engineering and how they are applied to develop a well-defined system from an operational need. This includes customer needs, requirements development, system architecture and design, tradeoff analysis, risk management, and system evaluation in all stages of the system life cycle.

Course Content

  • Customer Introductions
  • System Definitions and SE Concepts
  • Operational Requirements
  • Functions, Analysis, Allocation
  • Labor Day Holiday
  • Trade Studies and QFD;
  • Detailed Requirements
  • Conceptual & Preliminary Design
  • Systems Engineering Management I
  • Architecture, Allocation & Evaluation
  • Manufacturability, Disposability, Supportability, Affordability & Maintainability
  • Reliability, Usability (HSI)
  • Test and Evaluation I
  • Trade studies - Physical synthesis
  • Risk Management
  • Requirements Analysis, Suppliers
  • Models for economic evaluation
  • Systems Engineering Management II
  • PDR – what is it and why do it
  • Modeling and Simulation II
  • Detail Design
  • Detail Design II
  • Modeling and Simulation III
  • Integration and Interfaces
  • Systems Engineering Management III
  • Optimization

Course Evaluation Criteria

  • Homework
  • Project Reviews
  • Final Project Paper
  • Participation/Teamwork/Evaluations