Sustainable Construction and Design

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Program Overview

The Sustainable Construction and Design program prepares you to design and construct sustainable and highly energy-efficient residences. Learn how to construct new homes that are durable; provide a healthy environment; and use very little energy for heating, cooling, and lighting. Utilizing a “whole systems approach”, you will understand the integral relationship between materials, building techniques, mechanical systems, and subcontractors in the production of energy-efficient and sustainable homes. Learn how to use green and renewable materials, properly install all components and subsystems, and reduce construction site waste.

The program follows the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) training, assessment, certification, and career development standards for residential construction professionals. Program concepts align with the U.S. Green Building Council's initiatives.

Hands-On Learning Experiences

Building Experiences: Put the theories and concepts you learn into practice with foundations, concrete work, framing, siding, roofing, thermal/moisture protection, drywall installation/finishing, stair construction, finishing, cabinet installation, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, appliances, and landscaping.
Energy Audits: Perform energy audits on existing homes to identify problems, develop solutions, and retrofit solutions cost effectively.
Employment Experience: Gain 256 hours of real-world work experience ensuring you have the skills you need to succeed in your future career.

Transfer Information

The University of Northern Iowa's Department of Applied Engineering and Technical Management has a variety of documented pathways between Hawkeye's Sustainable Construction and Design AAS degree program and a bachelor degree at UNI. Check out UNI's transfer guides for the following programs to learn more:

Construction Management
Technology Management

If you plan to transfer, work closely with a program advisor to ensure courses transfer and you meet program requirements.

At A Glance
Award	Associate of Applied Science
Length of Study	2 years
Tuition-Free Eligible	This program qualifies for the Future Ready Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship and will pay up to 100% of your tuition. Students must apply for and be awarded the Last-Dollar Scholarship.

Video Overview

Hawkeye Community College's Sustainable Construction and Design program prepares you to design and construct sustainable and highly energy-efficient residences. Learn how to construct new homes that are durable; provide a healthy environment; and use very little energy for heating, cooling, and lighting. Utilizing a "whole systems approach", you will understand the integral relationship between materials, building techniques, mechanical systems, and subcontractors in the production of energy-efficient and sustainable homes.

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Graduate Spotlight

After a decade working in construction, Patrick Shields was ready to move up. He came to Hawkeye Community College and through the Sustainable Construction and Design program gained new skills and new confidence that has filled him with a sense of pride that he also sees from his 18-year-old daughter. "She's super excited about it," he said. "She just thought it was very cool that her dad would take the chance to better himself through education and move up in the field."

Program Pathway