What makes the program unique?
- Theory AND practice - the curriculum consists of a mix of theoretical and practical courses.
- Design labs - students take several intensive design labs in which they design actual buildings.
- Hands-on - students have manyopportunities to build models and test building components in the lab.
- Great student-faculty interaction.
- Active student chapter of the Structural Engineers' Association of California (SEAOC).
- Excellent network of alumni.
- Access to numerous scholarships.
- Help finding internships and job opportunities.
ARCE v. Architecture
Architectural engineering (ARCE) should not be confused with architecture (ARCH). While there are strong ties between the two departments, architectural engineering leads to a career as a structural engineer rather than as an architect.
ARCE v. Civil Engineering
Architectural engineering differs from civil engineering in that the focus of the ARCE program is on structural engineering of buildings whereas a traditional civil engineering program offers a broader curriculum that includes courses in transportation, wastewater, environmental engineering, etc. in addition to structural engineering courses. By focusing on the engineering of buildings, the architectural engineering department is able to offer many more courses related to structures. For students interested in designing buildings - ARCE is probably the place for you! For students who aren't sure which branch of engineering they wish to pursue - Civil Engineering may be the way to go...
Profile of an incoming student
Successful students in the architectural engineering program are among the most highly qualified to enter the university. They have balanced aptitudes in mathematics and verbal skills. They generally have an interest in or have matured skills in graphics and/or art. They are noted for their ability to think through abstract problems and have a passion for what they are doing.
Hopefully the student understands the mission of the department and has a general sense of where the program leads a successful graduate. A sense of wanting to be an active part of a team is desired and is a skill that develops naturally within the department's pedagogy.
During the first year at Cal Poly, the student will not take any architectural engineering courses but rather mathematics, physics, and architectural courses along with fulfilling the general education and breadth requirements. While this can be distracting to a young person's ambition to be in the architectural engineering program, the second year starts to expose the student to the fundamentals of the profession. The third and fourth year include the transition to the design labs and are the signature classes within the program.