Bachelor of Science (Building Science) (Honours) (Co-op)
This four-year Bachelor of Science (Building Science) (Honours) degree prepares you to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to analyze and problem solve in optimizing the performance of buildings by bridging all facets of building design, construction, human comfort and sustainability.
- Only program of its kind in Canada - responding to a critical need for professionals with an understanding of building physics and how to optimize buildings working as a system
- The Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence (ACCE) offers access to an integrated learning and applied research environment and an industry hub to train, inspire and collaborate
- More hands-on work than traditional theory based degree programs (25% hands-on projects, 25% computer modelling applications/practice)
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Open
Closed
Waitlisted
Start Term
Availability
International
Availability
Competitive?
Fall 2024
No
Schedule
Program Summary
Credential
Program Delivery
Program Code
Area of Interest
School
Campus
Work Integrated Learning
Opportunities for applied and hands-on experiences with building materials, components and systems are woven throughout the program of study. The program integrates theoretical and applied learning environments to provide opportunities for you to experience current and emerging technologies that support both the construction and operation of buildings.
This program responds to a critical need to prepare professionals with a better understanding of building physics, which is the core of the program. Throughout the program, you will develop the scientific mindset required to engage in scientific inquiry, reason in a scientific context and provide evidence-based approaches and solutions. You will also hone the skills and abilities needed to optimize buildings working as a system and address the fact that buildings are becoming ever-increasingly more complex. This is driven by the continuously growing demand for increased energy efficiency, comfort, structural durability and healthy environments....(read more)
Overview
This four-year Bachelor of Science (Building Science) (Honours) degree prepares you to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to analyze and problem solve in optimizing the performance of buildings by bridging all facets of building design, construction, human comfort and sustainability.
Opportunities for applied and hands-on experiences with building materials, components and systems are woven throughout the program of study. The program integrates theoretical and applied learning environments to provide opportunities for you to experience current and emerging technologies that support both the construction and operation of buildings.
This program responds to a critical need to prepare professionals with a better understanding of building physics, which is the core of the program. Throughout the program, you will develop the scientific mindset required to engage in scientific inquiry, reason in a scientific context and provide evidence-based approaches and solutions. You will also hone the skills and abilities needed to optimize buildings working as a system and address the fact that buildings are becoming ever-increasingly more complex. This is driven by the continuously growing demand for increased energy efficiency, comfort, structural durability and healthy environments.
You will develop abilities to recognize, forecast and document both successful and poor building performance as well as analytical skills to evaluate the impact of each component in the system and identify potential problems before they become hazards, or potential opportunities for improved performance.
Given that the complexity of working in a multidisciplinary industry requires group success, you will collaboratively conceive, develop and implement solutions as a team using holistic approaches. You will emerge as generalists able to handle these complexities through integrated construction practices. Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence (ACCE) offers access to an integrated learning and applied research environment. ACCE provides an industry hub to train, inspire and collaborate with construction industry partners.
Interactive and dynamic courses encourage the development of personal and interpersonal skills that position you for success in your future employment.
Students also gain real-world experience through a paid co-operative education (co-op) work term(s) (see Additional Information for more details). Please note that places in the co-op work term(s) are subject to availability and academic eligibility. Please note admission to a co-op program does not guarantee a co-op placement.
Industry trends and market analyses are indicative of employment opportunities for graduates. With the knowledge learned in this program, you may be able to find work as building scientists, architectural or construction project managers, energy consultants or building inspectors. You may also find employment as a researcher, junior analyst, entrepreneur or as technical staff with engineering firms or government agencies.
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well suited for students who:
- Appreciate the role of mathematics and applied science in the development of engineering solutions.
- Can work independently and contribute to problem-solving teams.
- Like to use drawings and spatial reasoning to visualize possibilities.
- Are inquisitive about the reasoning behind the choices and decisions made during building construction.
- Enjoy the challenge of researching and testing building methods and materials.
- Are interested in working with individuals who offer diverse perspectives.
Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Code:
ARC1000
Course Name:
Construction Methods and Materials
Course Description:
Professionals within the Building Science industry require a sound foundation of basic building performance requirements as well as material... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BSC1200
Course Name:
Professional Practice
Course Description:
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Hours:
14.0
Code:
DAT1120
Course Name:
Computer Applications
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Hours:
28.0
Code:
DSN1100
Course Name:
Technical Drawings
Course Description:
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Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL1100
Course Name:
Communications and Academic Writing
Course Description:
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42.0
Code:
MAT6443
Course Name:
Calculus I
Course Description:
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Hours:
56.0
Code:
SCI1100
Course Name:
Physics I
Course Description:
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Hours:
21.0
Code:
BSC1100
Course Name:
Building Science I
Course Description:
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Hours:
42.0
Code:
BSC1201
Course Name:
Building Code
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14.0
Code:
ELE1200
Course Name:
Electricity and Power Generation Fundamentals
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Hours:
42.0
Code:
MAT8202
Course Name:
Calculus II
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Integral calculus is the study of the definitions, properties and applications of two related concepts, the indefinite integral and the defi... + Read More
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56.0
Code:
PHI1000
Course Name:
Logic and Critical Thinking
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56.0
Code:
SCI1200
Course Name:
Materials Science I
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Hours:
42.0
Code:
BSC1400
Course Name:
Building Science II
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42.0
Code:
CAD2300
Course Name:
Building Modelling I
Course Description:
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Hours:
28.0
Code:
DSN2300
Course Name:
Building Design Processes I
Course Description:
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Hours:
21.0
Code:
ENG1100
Course Name:
Thermodynamics
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42.0
Code:
GEP1001
Course Name:
Cooperative Education and Job Readiness
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Hours:
18.0
Code:
MAT8203
Course Name:
Linear Algebra
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Hours:
42.0
Code:
MGT3110
Course Name:
Introduction to Construction Project Management
Course Description:
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Hours:
28.0
Code:
SCI2300
Course Name:
Materials Science II
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28.0
Code:
BIO2200
Course Name:
Botany
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56.0
Code:
ECO2000
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42.0
Code:
ENL2025
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42.0
Code:
FLS3101
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42.0
Code:
FLS3102
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Code:
GEO2300
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56.0
Code:
LAN3101
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42.0
Code:
LAN3102
Course Name:
Spanish - Beginner 2
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42.0
Code:
LAW2014
Course Name:
Law
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42.0
Code:
PHI2002
Course Name:
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42.0
Code:
PSI2000
Course Name:
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56.0
Code:
PSY2100
Course Name:
Introductory Psychology
Course Description:
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42.0
Code:
SCI2000
Course Name:
Environmental Science
Course Description:
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42.0
Code:
SOC2000
Course Name:
Introduction to Sociology
Course Description:
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56.0
Code:
SOC2001
Course Name:
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Course Description:
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42.0
Code:
BSC2400
Course Name:
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Course Description:
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Hours:
28.0
Code:
CAD2400
Course Name:
Building Modelling II
Course Description:
Being able to leverage technology to clearly represent detailed building models is necessary in clearly communicating project details. Throu... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
CON3210
Course Name:
Constructability
Course Description:
Using the knowledge and skills acquired to date in the program, students solve problems that arise when construction practicality meets aest... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
ENG3100
Course Name:
Heat Transfer
Course Description:
Students further develop their problem-solving abilities through a continued exploration of the theoretical and practical applications of mo... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL8810
Course Name:
Technical Communications
Course Description:
Students develop an appreciation of both the applications and the implications of technical communication. Through a combination of written ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MAT8204
Course Name:
Differential Equations
Course Description:
Physical situations such as beam deflection, harmonic motion, circuit theory or Newton's laws require solving first or second-order ordinary... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHI2000
Course Name:
Introduction to Research
Course Description:
Academic research requires students to possess a fundamental knowledge of accepted methodologies and practices. An overview of the research ... + Read More
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42.0
Code:
SCI2201
Course Name:
Physics II
Course Description:
Possessing the underpinnings to understand how things work from first principles provides the basis to becoming a successful professional in... + Read More
Hours:
21.0
Code:
WKT2500
Course Name:
Work Term I
Course Description:
Immediately following semester four, the first co-op placement provides students with experiential opportunities within the construction ind... + Read More
Hours:
Code:
BSC2210
Course Name:
Building Systems I
Course Description:
Through readings, discussion, and primary research using living lab tools, students explore the electrical, plumbing and safety systems that... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
BSC3400
Course Name:
Building Envelope I
Course Description:
Problems arising in buildings often trace back to issues with the building envelope. Through case studies and examples, students examine a r... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
DSN3100
Course Name:
Building Design Processes II
Course Description:
Through a variety of team-based simulations, students engage in aspects of the building design process in order to develop both a feel for t... + Read More
Hours:
21.0
Code:
ENG2100
Course Name:
Geotechnical Engineering
Course Description:
Accurate assessments of the sub-grade geological materials found on a given site are a vital part of the decision making process related to ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MAT8205
Course Name:
Statistics and Probability
Course Description:
Students review basic statistics operations including probability, random sampling, variability, and the binomial, normal and Poisson's dist... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BIO2200
Course Name:
Botany
Course Description:
Biologists with an interest in plant life may choose to specialize in botany. Beginning with the organic features of life, focusing on plant... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
ECO2000
Course Name:
Environmental Economics
Course Description:
Issues pertaining to the environment have a major financial impact on society and government. Environmental economics examines the way human... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL2025
Course Name:
Interpersonal Communication
Course Description:
Effectively communicating with others, both professionally and personally, is an art that requires conscious development. Students address t... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
FLS3101
Course Name:
French as a Second Language - Beginner 1
Course Description:
The French language is an asset when communicating in the workplace. Students with no prior knowledge of French acquire basic forms and stru... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
FLS3102
Course Name:
French as a Second Language - Beginner 2
Course Description:
The workplace benefits from having professionals with knowledge of the French language. Students with basic knowledge of French gain more co... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GEO2300
Course Name:
Principles of Urban Planning
Course Description:
Increasingly cities and communities are feeling the pressure of expansion, and people from all walks of life feel disconnected from the proc... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
LAN3101
Course Name:
Spanish - Beginner 1
Course Description:
The Spanish language is an asset when communicating in the workplace. Students with no prior knowledge of Spanish acquire basic forms and st... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
LAN3102
Course Name:
Spanish - Beginner 2
Course Description:
The workplace benefits from having professionals with knowledge of the Spanish language. Students with basic knowledge of Spanish gain more ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
LAW2014
Course Name:
Law
Course Description:
The reach of the rule of law extends into our lives on a daily basis. As much as it is present in our lives, very few people are aware of th... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHI2002
Course Name:
Ethical Decision Making
Course Description:
To avoid potential prosecution, companies and their employees are well-advised to engage in ethical decision-making practices in all busines... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PSI2000
Course Name:
Navigating Canada's Political Landscape
Course Description:
A developed knowledge of government and politics is key to an effective participation in public life. Drawing on current events, students e... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
PSY2100
Course Name:
Introductory Psychology
Course Description:
With its applications to behaviour and personality, psychology extends its reach into many aspects of our personal lives. The broad applicat... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
SCI2000
Course Name:
Environmental Science
Course Description:
Environmental science is an interdisciplinary study of how the earth works, human interaction with the earth and how to address the existing... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
SOC2000
Course Name:
Introduction to Sociology
Course Description:
When working with individuals and groups it is important to understand both the background and influences present. Students develop a famili... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
SOC2001
Course Name:
Anti-Racism: Theory and Practice
Course Description:
Anti-racism is the practice of identifying, challenging, and changing the values, structures, and behaviours that perpetuate systemic racism... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL4100
Course Name:
Creative Writing
Course Description:
Whether for personal or public consumption, many people enjoy writing short fiction to express their creative energy while improving upon th... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL4200
Course Name:
New Worlds and Alternative Realities: Speculative Fiction
Course Description:
Speculative fiction gathers together all those works of fiction in which new worlds or alternative realities are envisioned. Within this ca... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHI4000
Course Name:
Philosophy and Popular Culture
Course Description:
Many facets of today's popular culture engage, directly or indirectly, with the concerns of a variety of philosophical traditions. Drawing o... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHI4002
Course Name:
The Philosophy of Drugs
Course Description:
Drugs are everywhere: professionals prescribe them to us to make us "better"; we take them recreationally; we give them to our children, pet... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHI4003
Course Name:
The Philosophy of Love and Sex
Course Description:
Love and sex are central to the human condition, and have been topics of academic inquiry and controversy throughout history. Various practi... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHI4004
Course Name:
Technology, Society and the Environment
Course Description:
Environmental issues have come to occupy a central place in the marketplace, politics, policy, and society at large. Owing largely to the ma... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHI4100
Course Name:
Survival in the Information Age: Risk and the Media
Course Description:
On an almost daily basis, the media, through its various outlets - television, radio, web sites, RSS, and podcasts - reports on issues that ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHY4000
Course Name:
Black Holes, Big Bangs and the Cosmos
Course Description:
The dynamic and exciting field of Cosmology outlines our current understanding of the Universe from its start, at the so-called Big Bang, th... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
SOC4000
Course Name:
Criminology
Course Description:
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Hours:
42.0
Code:
SOC4001
Course Name:
Global Perspectives
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42.0
Code:
BSC2100
Course Name:
Building Frame and Structural Studies
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56.0
Code:
BSC3420
Course Name:
Building Systems II
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Striking a balance between efficiency and objectives can be challenging in the building science field. Students examine the requirements to ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BSC4000
Course Name:
Building Envelope II
Course Description:
Proper design and detailing of roof systems is crucial for the adequate performance of the building envelope. Through case studies and examp... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CAD3200
Course Name:
Building Information Modeling
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Hours:
42.0
Code:
DSN2211
Course Name:
Sustainable Design
Course Description:
Sustainable design is the conception and insight of an environmentally responsive expression as a part of the evolving matrix of nature. The... + Read More
Hours:
28.0
Code:
BIO2200
Course Name:
Botany
Course Description:
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Hours:
56.0
Code:
ECO2000
Course Name:
Environmental Economics
Course Description:
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Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL2025
Course Name:
Interpersonal Communication
Course Description:
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Hours:
42.0
Code:
FLS3101
Course Name:
French as a Second Language - Beginner 1
Course Description:
The French language is an asset when communicating in the workplace. Students with no prior knowledge of French acquire basic forms and stru... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
FLS3102
Course Name:
French as a Second Language - Beginner 2
Course Description:
The workplace benefits from having professionals with knowledge of the French language. Students with basic knowledge of French gain more co... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GEO2300
Course Name:
Principles of Urban Planning
Course Description:
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Hours:
56.0
Code:
LAN3101
Course Name:
Spanish - Beginner 1
Course Description:
The Spanish language is an asset when communicating in the workplace. Students with no prior knowledge of Spanish acquire basic forms and st... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
LAN3102
Course Name:
Spanish - Beginner 2
Course Description:
The workplace benefits from having professionals with knowledge of the Spanish language. Students with basic knowledge of Spanish gain more ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
LAW2014
Course Name:
Law
Course Description:
The reach of the rule of law extends into our lives on a daily basis. As much as it is present in our lives, very few people are aware of th... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHI2002
Course Name:
Ethical Decision Making
Course Description:
To avoid potential prosecution, companies and their employees are well-advised to engage in ethical decision-making practices in all busines... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PSI2000
Course Name:
Navigating Canada's Political Landscape
Course Description:
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Hours:
56.0
Code:
PSY2100
Course Name:
Introductory Psychology
Course Description:
With its applications to behaviour and personality, psychology extends its reach into many aspects of our personal lives. The broad applicat... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
SCI2000
Course Name:
Environmental Science
Course Description:
Environmental science is an interdisciplinary study of how the earth works, human interaction with the earth and how to address the existing... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
SOC2000
Course Name:
Introduction to Sociology
Course Description:
When working with individuals and groups it is important to understand both the background and influences present. Students develop a famili... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
SOC2001
Course Name:
Anti-Racism: Theory and Practice
Course Description:
Anti-racism is the practice of identifying, challenging, and changing the values, structures, and behaviours that perpetuate systemic racism... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
WKT3500
Course Name:
Work Term II
Course Description:
Immediately following academic term six, the second co-op placement provides students with experiential opportunities within the constructio... + Read More
Hours:
0.0
Code:
BSC2300
Course Name:
Applied Numerical Methods
Course Description:
Students reviews a variety of building science applications and problems using analytical techniques, mathematical knowledge and physics pri... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BSC3100
Course Name:
Renewable Energy
Course Description:
The energy demands of new and existing buildings are an expense that many building owners and managers have accepted as a requirement, but e... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BSC3300
Course Name:
Energy Conservation and Auditing
Course Description:
In buildings of all sizes for all types of applications, essential components in the establishment and preservation of environmental comfort... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BSC4300
Course Name:
Building Science Research Project I
Course Description:
Working individually or in small teams, students engage in a research project that contributes to the body of knowledge in applied building ... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
CAD4100
Course Name:
Energy Modelling and Simulation
Course Description:
Students explore a number of advanced software tools that use powerful analytical mechanisms to model the whole building during the design o... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL4100
Course Name:
Creative Writing
Course Description:
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Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL4200
Course Name:
New Worlds and Alternative Realities: Speculative Fiction
Course Description:
Speculative fiction gathers together all those works of fiction in which new worlds or alternative realities are envisioned. Within this ca... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHI4000
Course Name:
Philosophy and Popular Culture
Course Description:
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Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHI4002
Course Name:
The Philosophy of Drugs
Course Description:
Drugs are everywhere: professionals prescribe them to us to make us "better"; we take them recreationally; we give them to our children, pet... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHI4003
Course Name:
The Philosophy of Love and Sex
Course Description:
Love and sex are central to the human condition, and have been topics of academic inquiry and controversy throughout history. Various practi... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHI4004
Course Name:
Technology,Society and the Environment
Course Description:
Environmental issues have come to occupy a central place in the marketplace, politics, policy, and society at large. Owing largely to the ma... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHI4100
Course Name:
Survival in the Information Age: Risk and the Media
Course Description:
On an almost daily basis, the media, through its various outlets - television, radio, web sites, RSS, and podcasts - reports on issues that ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHY4000
Course Name:
Black Holes, Big Bangs and the Cosmos
Course Description:
The dynamic and exciting field of Cosmology outlines our current understanding of the Universe from its start, at the so-called Big Bang, th... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
SOC4000
Course Name:
Criminology
Course Description:
The interdisciplinary study of social science examining the individual and social aspects of crime is known as criminology. Students work th... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
SOC4001
Course Name:
Global Perspectives
Course Description:
Sociology, through its exploration of the organization of society and the connections between people and their surroundings, provides new wa... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BSC3200
Course Name:
Alternative Energy
Course Description:
Students extend their knowledge of energy sources through a consideration of non-fossil fuel options that are currently available or being r... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BSC4210
Course Name:
Professional Portfolio Development
Course Description:
In the profession of building science, the ability to construct a portfolio is an important skill. Students collect all the projects for the... + Read More
Hours:
7.0
Code:
BSC4350
Course Name:
Building Science Research Project II
Course Description:
Students complete the research project that was started in the previous semester. The research project is presented to peers and faculty in ... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
CON4200
Course Name:
Construction Methods for Renovation and Rehabilitation
Course Description:
Building from scratch is not always the most feasible solution in today's marketplace, and so owners turn to renovation and rehabilitation a... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL4005
Course Name:
Report Writing
Course Description:
Technical report writing remains a crucial skill for professionals within technical disciplines. In this course, students define and describ... + Read More
Hours:
14.0
Code:
ENL4100
Course Name:
Creative Writing
Course Description:
Whether for personal or public consumption, many people enjoy writing short fiction to express their creative energy while improving upon th... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL4200
Course Name:
New Worlds and Alternative Realities: Speculative Fiction
Course Description:
Speculative fiction gathers together all those works of fiction in which new worlds or alternative realities are envisioned. Within this ca... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHI4000
Course Name:
Philosophy and Popular Culture
Course Description:
Many facets of today's popular culture engage, directly or indirectly, with the concerns of a variety of philosophical traditions. Drawing o... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHI4002
Course Name:
The Philosophy of Drugs
Course Description:
Drugs are everywhere: professionals prescribe them to us to make us "better"; we take them recreationally; we give them to our children, pet... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHI4003
Course Name:
The Philosophy of Love and Sex
Course Description:
Love and sex are central to the human condition, and have been topics of academic inquiry and controversy throughout history. Various practi... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHI4004
Course Name:
Technology,Society and the Environment
Course Description:
Environmental issues have come to occupy a central place in the marketplace, politics, policy, and society at large. Owing largely to the ma... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHI4100
Course Name:
Survival in the Information Age: Risk and the Media
Course Description:
On an almost daily basis, the media, through its various outlets - television, radio, web sites, RSS, and podcasts - reports on issues that ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PHY4000
Course Name:
Black Holes, Big Bangs and the Cosmos
Course Description:
The dynamic and exciting field of Cosmology outlines our current understanding of the Universe from its start, at the so-called Big Bang, th... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
SOC4000
Course Name:
Criminology
Course Description:
The interdisciplinary study of social science examining the individual and social aspects of crime is known as criminology. Students work th... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
SOC4001
Course Name:
Global Perspectives
Course Description:
Sociology, through its exploration of the organization of society and the connections between people and their surroundings, provides new wa... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BSC4100
Course Name:
Applied Energy Management
Course Description:
Using existing and emerging research available from a variety of related disciplines, students examine new and accredited hardware, and soft... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BSC4500
Course Name:
Building Enclosure Comissioning
Course Description:
A critical aspect of building science is quality assurance measured against desired goals, criteria and objectives, and this is best achieve... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Graduates may work in architects offices, engineering firms, contracting companies and government agencies and departments as researchers, junior analysts, project officers, building specialists, technical staff, architectural and construction project team leaders and consultants.
Pathways
Please use our Pathways tool to search for pathway options.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Integrate sustainable building practices and alternative energy solutions and present options that balance client specifications, site conditions, and human factors.
- Use sound, acceptable scientific and engineering principles for the solution and documentation of situations encountered during the construction or rehabilitation of buildings.
- Communicate effectively with all project stakeholders.
- Read, interpret, and, with direction, modify documents related to building plans, including working drawings that involve structural, electrical, and mechanical features.
- Formulate strategies for the efficient and effective commissioning and operation of buildings and building systems.
- Evaluate the practical applications of primary and secondary theoretical research related to existing and emerging construction methods, equipment, and materials.
- Analyze, test, and comment on the functionality of alternative structural, mechanical, and electrical solutions proposed for integration in both new projects and renovations.
- Contribute to the on-going economic viability of construction and engineering projects through the application of principles of estimating, accounting, and cost controls.
- Facilitate partnerships and productive interactions within project teams that involve knowledge-workers and skilled trade workers.
- Ensure work, activities, and practice are in compliance with established ethical and professional standards, as well as local, provincial, and national legislation.
- Adapt to changes in employment requirements through the development, implementation, and updating of professional and personal development plans.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.
2023/2024 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator.
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar`s Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro.
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program related expenses include:
- Books and supplies cost approximately $1,200 per academic term and can be purchased from the campus store. For more information visit www.algonquincollege.com/coursematerials.
- Students are expected to purchase CSA-approved safety footwear and safety glasses, which are required at the start of the term.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent.
- Mature students are applicants who have not achieved the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or its equivalent and who are at least 19 years of age on or before the commencement of the program in which they intend to enroll. Mature students applying for Degree programs satisfy College Eligibility by having demonstrated academic abilities equivalent to those of Ontario high school graduates, verified by successful completion of at least one full-time term at the post-secondary level (minimum five courses taken concurrently in an academic program of study).
Program Eligibility
- Six Grade 12 university (U) or university/college (M) courses with a minimum 65% average including:
- One Grade 12 U English course, with a minimum of 70%
- One Grade 12 U Mathematics course, with a minimum of 70%
- One Grade 12 U Science course (Physics preferred), with at least 70%
- Please note that mature students must meet the following subject-specific Program Eligibility requirements, either directly or through equivalencies:
- One Grade 12 U English course, with a minimum of 70%
- One Grade 12 U Mathematics, with a minimum of 70%
- One Grade 12 U Science course (Physics preferred), with at least 70%
- Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
- IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT)-overall 88, with a minimum of 22 in each component: Reading 22; Listening 22; Speaking 22; Writing 22; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 120, minimum of 120 in Literacy and no score below 105.
Not sure if you meet all of the requirements? Academic Upgrading may be able to help with that: https://www.algonquincollege.com/access/.
Application Information
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (BUILDING SCIENCE) (HONOURS) (CO-OP)
Program Code 1512X03FWO
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca.
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants please visit this link for application process information: https://algonquincollege.force.com/myACint/.
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar`s Office
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Ave
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Telephone: 613-727-0002
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 613-727-7766
Fax: 613-727-7632
Contact: https://www.algonquincollege.com/ro
Additional Information
Program Resources
Algonquin College has been granted consent by the Minister of Colleges and Universities to offer this applied degree for a seven-year term starting February 5, 2021. The College shall ensure that all students admitted to the above-named program during the period of consent have the opportunity to complete the program within a reasonable timeframe.
CO-OP INFORMATION:
Co-operative education (Co-op) allows students to integrate their classroom learning with a real-world experience through paid work terms. Two academic terms prior to the cooperative education work term, students are required to actively participate in and successfully complete the self-directed co-op course, readiness activities and workshops.
Students must actively conduct a guided, self-directed job search and are responsible for securing approved program-related paid co-op employment. Students compete for co-op positions alongside students from Algonquin College and other Canadian and international colleges and universities. Algonquin College`s Co-op Department provides assistance in developing co-op job opportunities and guides the overall process, but does not guarantee that a student will obtain employment in a co-op work term. Co-op students may be required to relocate to take part in the co-op employment opportunities available in their industry and must cover all associated expenses; e.g., travel, work permits, visa applications, accommodation and all other incurred expenses.
Co-op work terms are typically 14 weeks in duration and are completed during a term when students are not taking courses. For more information on your program`s co-op level(s), visit the courses tab on your program`s webpage.
International students enrolled in a co-op program are required by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to have a valid Co-op/Internship Work Permit prior to commencing their work term. Without this document International students are not legally eligible to engage in work in Canada that is part of an academic program. The Co-op/Internship Work Permit does not authorize international students to work outside the requirements of their academic program.
For more information on co-op programs, the co-op work/study schedule, as well as general and program-specific co-op eligibility criteria, please visit www.algonquincollege.com/coop.
Successful completion of all courses, including mandatory cooperative education (Co-op) Work Terms, is a requirement for graduation.
TRANSFER CREDIT RECOGNITION:
Applicants with degrees or degree level courses from Canadian institutions empowered to award degrees and from other degree granting institutions recognized by the Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities (MCU) are assessed on a case-by-case basis. To receive a course credit, a minimum grade of C (65%) is required. Official transcripts and course descriptions/outlines must be presented with the application for credit recognition. Applicants with degrees or degree level courses from countries other than Canada or from postsecondary institutions not recognized by the MCU must have their degrees evaluated by a recognized Canadian public or private institution that specializes in the evaluation of international degree programs. MCU must have their degrees evaluated by a recognized Canadian public or private institution that specializes in the evaluation of international degree programs.
ADVANCED STANDING:
Graduates of related Ontario College Diploma or Ontario College Advanced Diploma programs may be eligible for advanced standing into the degree program. Please visit the degree program listing or speak to the Program Coordinator for more information and to confirm eligibility.
DEGREE ELECTIVE INFORMATION:
Students may choose from a variety of breadth courses. Courses from a range of disciplines are offered within the humanities, social sciences, sciences, global cultures and mathematics. Elective offerings vary from semester to semester.
Contact
Stephen Vardy
Program Coordinator
Room CA519
Stephen is a Professor and Coordinator for the Bachelor of Science (Building Science) program at Algonquin College. He has been teaching at the College since 2011 (Part-Time until 2016, and Full-Time since). In addition, Stephen has taught previously at Queen’s University, St. Lawrence College and in the Architecture and Civil/Construction Engineering programs at Algonquin College.
Prior to joining Algonquin College full time, Stephen acquired 6 years of industry experience in the consulting industry as a Structural Engineer and Sustainability Consultant, working on a variety of large projects in the Ottawa area, including the Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence. Stephen has also been involved more recently with the Centre Block Rehabilitation project, working with the Joint Venture (CENTRUS) in a part-time structural engineering role. Stephen holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Civil Engineering) from Queen’s University, and a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering also from Queen’s University. His Ph.D. research focused on the structural performance of natural building materials.
Taofiq Al-Faesly
Professor
Taofiq Al-Faesly, an esteemed educator and accomplished engineer with over 30 years of experience in academia and industry. As a Professor at Algonquin College’s Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence (ACCE), he imparts extensive knowledge in building science, construction, and civil engineering, boasting 19+ years of teaching, including six years at Algonquin College.
Taofiq’s industry role as Principal Engineer at Alfa Alliance Engineering Inc. showcased his expertise in designing commercial and residential projects, emphasizing compliance with Ontario Building Code, National Building Code, and CSA requirements. His focus includes building envelope design, renovation, repair, commissioning, and inspection, particularly in walls, roofs, and assemblies.
His dedication to sustainable building practices is evident through his LEED Green Associate certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. Taofiq holds a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of Ottawa, with contributions of five research papers, specializing in extreme loads and water-building interaction.
As a Professional Engineer registered with Professional Engineers Ontario, Taofiq excels in both education and practical engineering. His international experience spans Asia, Africa, and North America, providing a rich global perspective. Dr. Al-Faesly is a dynamic professional exemplifying leadership in civil engineering and building science.
Federico Fernández
Professor
Federico Fernández is a Professor at Algonquin College and a Professional Engineer licensed in the provinces of Ontario, Canada and Neuquén, Argentina.
He obtained Masters and PhD degrees in Geotechnical Engineering from Western University. His professional career includes Engineering consulting in Canada, Argentina and USA, as well as industrial research for a global leader in Earthmoving Equipment manufacturing. He has co-authored over 50 scientific publications and 3 patents on earthmoving machine performance.
Dr. Fernandez enjoys guiding students through experiential learning of geotechnical and surveying concepts.
Clayton Fox
Professor
Room CA501
Clayton Fox received his master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Ottawa, after his bachelor’s degree from Lakehead University, and his advanced technology diploma from Algonquin College.
During his studies, he interned with the National Research Council (NRC) at the Centre for Surface Transportation Technology (Ottawa) and the Institute for Fuel Cell Innovation (Vancouver). After graduating, he joined the structural and bulk handling Engineering firm Lassing Dibben (Trenton), then the Canadian Space Agency’s Thermal Qualification Facility (Ottawa), before focusing his career on building systems and consulting engineering with Goodkey Weedmark and Associates (Ottawa), where he earned his licence (P.Eng.) to practice Mechanical Engineering.
He joined the Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence as a Professor, and teaches across three departments: Architectural Technology, Bachelor of Building Science and Mechanical Engineering Technology where he engages students to collaborate in multidisciplinary projects.
Teaching philosophy:
“How we make people feel about their progress in learning is important to me. If hard work and sacrifices are being made, then it must be worth it.” – C.D.L. Fox
Fields of Interest
High-performance building systems in: (Passive House; NetZero & LEED).
Environmental Technologies in Architecture: Heating, Ventilating and Air-Conditioning Systems;
Lighting Systems; Architectural Acoustics; Fire Protection; Plumbing Systems; Energy and
Resource Conservation and Utilization; Building Performance Modeling; Building Fuel Consumption; Thermofluids and Combustion.
Heba Teamah
Professor
Dr. Teamah joined the Building Science program as a full-time faculty in 2019. Dr. Teamah is committed to transfer her practical and theoretical knowledge in the field to her students. She is passionate about renewable and sustainable technologies in the building sector. She supervises final year students’ projects and is actively involved in the applied research. She has numerous publications in high impact journals, conferences, and books.
Prior to teaching at Algonquin College, Dr. Teamah was a research fellow and instructor at McMaster University. She holds a doctoral degree in mechanical engineering from McMaster University, a Masters and a Bachelors from Alexandria University. In addition, she has more than eight years of hands on experience in building systems from the mechanical engineering prospective. She worked on designing efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems for major projects in both residential and commercial sectors. Dr. Teamah is a licensed professional engineer within the province of Ontario.