Building Science and Net Zero Design Certificate

Building science refers to the analysis and collected understanding of how physical phenomena – including heat, moisture, air movement, and gravity – affect buildings. It provides a body of knowledge allowing for system and design details to account for these forces and to use them in our favor to maximize comfort and minimize energy use. Net zero energy design – the strategy in which applied building science principles guide a low-energy durable structure coupled with on-site renewable energy production to offset total energy consumption – is now well within reach. Through lectures, case studies, demonstrations, design exercises, and hands-on experience, students will gain a firm grasp of the science behind building performance and begin to explore how to design in accordance with the laws of physics and the forces of nature. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to a real project through hands-on exercises. If you are a designer, builder, project manager, property owner, or policy professional, or are moving toward one of these careers, a firm understanding of building science and the path to net zero buildings is fast becoming a critical credential for any successful practitioner. This program will take place in a hybrid format. We will meet virtually on Mondays and Thursdays from 6-9pm between April 7 - May 1, 2025 to cover building science fundamentals, solar orientation, mechanical systems and super insulation. We will meet in person on the Waitsfield VT campus from May 5-16, 2025. The in person portion will be dedicated to net zero design and hands on, applied building science. More information is available in the course syllabus.