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Q1: What is the difference between a bachelor of environmental
design degree and a construction science degree?
A1. Both degree plans do have similarities in their required coursework.
Students in both majors take a series of mechanical and electrical
systems and structures classes along with construction materials and
methods classes. Yet the focus of each program is very different.
The focus of the Environmental Design degree is on design. This program
provides opportunities for students to envision, plan and develop
built and virtual environments and to manage how people react and
interface with the environment. The Department of Architecture offers
a series of design studios in which students synthesize knowledge
from a wide range of disciplines. The studios afford students a hands-on
opportunity to explore visionary design solutions that respond to
a broad range of concerns. Art and architectural history and theory
classes offer views of past, present and future projects and human
concerns. Design communication classes such as drawing, photography
and computer applications enable students to effectively communicate
their visions to others. Professional practice courses give students
an understanding of legal and ethical concerns related to the practice
of architecture.
The focus of the Construction Science degree is on managing the construction
process. Students graduating with an Bachelor of Construction Science
degree can work for General Contractors and developers. Contractors
and developers can be involved with building construction, road and
bridge construction, industrial or commercial construction. The Department
of Construction Science offers courses in project control systems.
(scheduling and estimating), construction law and industry, soils
and foundations.
Q2: How do I become licensed as an architect?
A2: In the United States, most state registration boards require a
degree from an accredited professional degree program as a prerequisite
for licensure. The National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB)
recognizes two types of professional degrees: the Bachelor of Architecture
and the Master of Architecture.
At Texas A&M undergraduate students having professional architectural
registration as their ultimate goal are advised to complete the Bachelor
of Environmental Design Degree-Architectural Studies Option and an
accredited two year graduate program.
Q3: Is the undergraduate Bachelor of Environmental Design degree
(B.E.D) accredited?
A3. The architecture programs offered in the College of Architecture
at Texas A&M University consist of a pre-professional undergraduate
degree and a professional graduate degree, which, when earned sequentially,
comprise an accredited professional education. The pre-professional
degree is not, by itself, recognized as an accredited degree.
Q4: How many credit hours should I register for my first semester
at A&M?
A4: The minimum amount of hours needed to be classified as a full-time
student is 12 credit hours. Freshman and transfer students are advised
to keep the number of hours they take the first semester to a minimum.
Freshman and transfer students who are new to Texas A&M typically
take twelve to fourteen credit hours their first semester. This will
allow time to adjust to the University and the new surroundings.
Q5: What kind of computer should I buy?
A5: The following are minimum generic computer specifications.
- Pentium III or higher processor
- 32 Mb or higher graphics memory
- 128 Mb or higher RAM
- 20 Gb or higher hard disk
- CD-Rewriter
- 56 K modem AND 10/100 Network card (NIC)
- 250 Mb zip drive
Most software that students will need is available at discounted
academic prices.
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