Ph.D. in Architectural Engineering

Ph.D. in Architectural Engineering

The Architectural Engineering Ph.D. allows students to develop depth and breadth of knowledge by focusing their research within specialized concentrations of the AE field. Ph.D. students, under advisement of their supervising professor and approval of their supervisory committee, develop and carry out an individualized program of research in one of the following specialized concentrations:

  • Building acoustical systems
  • Building electrical systems
  • Building lighting systems
  • Building mechanical systems
  • Building structural systems
  • Integration of these systems
  • Smart buildings

While the research curriculum is a priority, there are several professional societies and student groups on campus to aid students in their studies and networking, including

  • Acoustical Society of America (ASA), University of Nebraska Student Branch
  • Architectural Engineering Institute (AEI), University of Nebraska Student Branch
  • American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Student Chapter
  • UNL Architectural Engineering Construction Student Outreach Program (AECSOP)
  • Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) of North America


All AE Ph.D. students are required to take, and pass, the AE Qualifying Examination before the appointment of the Doctoral Degree Supervisory Committee. Students matriculating with a master's degree must take the qualifying exam by the beginning of their second year in the Ph.D. program, while students matriculating with a bachelor's degree must take the qualifying exam by the beginning of their third year in the Ph.D. program. Click for more information about the Qualifying Exam.

For specific requirements and to apply online, visit UNL's Office of Graduate Studies Architectural Engineering Ph.D. program page.