University of Texas at Austin
AC-4: Graduate Program

The Sustainable Design program at the University of Texas at Austin integrates three areas of inquiry related to the built environment — natural systems, building systems, and cultural systems. The study of natural systems relies upon the disciplines of physics and ecology as they relate to architecture. The study of building systems includes investigation of those component technologies that are required to construct environmentally responsive architecture. The study of cultural systems requires that natural and building systems be investigated within the complex social and political context of architectural practice. In sum, the Sustainable Design Program is practical, technical, and philosophical in scope. This degree plan is intended for those students who wish to prepare for a related PhD program, plan to work in public policy, or pursue activism related to sustainable architecture or urbanism. It is a non-professional research-oriented rather than design oriented program.  

This degree can partner with the Master of Science in Community and Regional Planning as a dual degree.  

The Master of Global Policy Studies (MGPS) degree at the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs is a path-breaking program designed to equip professionals with the tools and knowledge necessary to be leaders in an increasingly interdependent world. The MGPS degree goes beyond traditional international affairs programs to offer a multidisciplinary approach to the complex economic, political, technological, and social issues of the 21st century and considers the full range of influences on contemporary global policy – governments, private industry, and non-governmental organizations. Graduates will become leaders in government, business and international organizations by acquiring core professional skills and expertise tailored to the contemporary global environment. 

Students can specialize in International Energy, Environment and Technology, and dual degrees are available for Community and Regional Planning and Energy & Earth Resources.  

This program trains future leaders at the food-energy-water-systems (FEWS) nexus to advance agriculture and food production in the U.S. and globally. Graduate students will gain fundamental knowledge and tools needed to develop novel and sustainable solutions. 

A major challenge in Texas, the U.S, and the world is water scarcity and energy requirements for agriculture. In this program, students will learn to develop new technologies, systems-level decision/management tools, and policies. 

The GPPES takes an interdisciplinary approach designed to give students a broad picture of the energy field that considers energy issues from an overall policy perspective, based on an understanding of the technological and environmental pressures involved. 

A core requirement of the GPPES is the gateway course, “Energy Technology and Policy,” jointly offered by a number of schools and colleges at UT, which focuses on the economic and environmental issues raised by both traditional and emerging energy technologies. GPPES students also attend a weekly symposium in which distinguished speakers from UT and elsewhere discuss current concerns and recent developments in the energy field. 

Residential and commercial buildings account for nearly 40% of total U.S. energy consumption, worldwide building energy use accounts for 33% of global anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions, and on average, Americans spend over 21 hours per day inside of buildings; the most vulnerable (infants and elderly) spend even more time indoors. These stats are just some of the reasons why it’s important to build environments that recognize and address pollution, energy, and the environment.  

The Building Energy and Environments program at the University of Texas at Austin consists of a community of over 35 scholars (faculty, staff, postdocs and students) who investigate a wide range of issues related to building environments.