The Master Builder Program: An Integrative, Practice-Oriented Program

Abstract

The Master Builder Program is a practice-oriented master of engineering degree program that has been developed and implemented by the faculty in the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department at the Worcester Polytechnic Institute. The central theme of the Master Builder Program is building process integration, which is a systems or integrated approach to the planning, design, construction, and management of constructed facilities. Building process integration was chosen as a strategic plan to focus on one segment of the building industry, to provide a unique educational product, to exhibit the strengths of Worcester Polytechnic Institute, and to distinguish the program from practice-oriented graduate degree programs that have been established at competing colleges and universities. The 30-credit-hour curriculum includes two required courses, a capstone project, and electives. Faculty collaboration and industrial participation are critical elements of the program.