The Commonwealth Honors College thesis or project is intended to provide students with the opportunity to work closely with faculty members to define and carry out in-depth research or creative endeavors. It provides excellent preparation for students who intend to continue their education through graduate study or begin their professional careers. The student works closely with their 499Y Honors Research sponsor to pursue research on a topic or question of special interest to them in preparation for writing a 499T Honors Thesis or completing a 499P Honors Project.

Honors Thesis expectations are high. The intended end-product is a traditional research manuscript with accompanying artifact(s), all theses:
- are 6 credits or more of sustained research on a single topic, typically conducted over two semesters.
- begin with creative inquiry and systematic research.
- include documentation of substantive scholarly endeavor.
- culminate in an oral defense or other form of public presentation.

Honors Project expectations are high. The intended end-product is a traditional project manuscript with accompanying artifact(s), all projects:
- are 6 credits or more of sustained research on a single topic, typically conducted over two semesters.
- begin with creative inquiry and systematic research.
- include documentation of substantive scholarly endeavor.
- culminate in an oral defense or other form of public presentation.

A one-credit class that guides students through the proposal writing process required for entry into the BDIC major. Students will investigate career and graduate school options, finalize their course selections for the BDIC major and choose a faculty sponsor within the scope of the class. Admission to the class by application only.

With construction being one of the most dangerous occupations, workplace safety is crucial for every successful building project. This course teaches basic safety concepts through guest lectures and the self-guided study of OSHA principles. Students acquire the 10-hour OSHA safety training (and card) as part of this course (at a small, additional cost), which is the basic requirement for any work on construction sites.

Senior BCT capstone seminar course for students preparing to enter the construction and building technology field. Centers on management of construction projects by integrating core aspects like: design, building systems and structure, sustainability, bidding/estimating, scheduling, BIM, value engineering, contracts/negotiation, subcontractor relations, cost control, management during construction, close out, and post-construction requirements.

Introduction to the mechanical behavior of building materials for students of construction technology and architecture. Basic structural concepts, including statics and strength of materials, are addressed in a practical hands-on manner.

Introduction to the mechanical behavior of building materials for students of construction technology and architecture. Basic structural concepts, including statics and strength of materials, are addressed in a practical hands-on manner.

BCT students approaching graduation learn to prepare for their professional life by editing their resumes, writing cover letters, developing relevant interviewing skills and starting to network effectively with industry leaders. Each week a different business professional meets with students in this class to discuss careers in the industry. Many speakers are also potential employers who are accepting resumes and may conduct interviews.

Students in the UMass Clean Energy Corps will work in teams with energy engineers and other staff of the UMass Clean Energy Extension to provide energy analysis and high-level energy audits to Massachusetts cities and towns. We will collect and analyze municipal energy data, conduct walk through and instrumented energy audits on site for some facilities, and provide guidance to help municipalities cut their energy consumption by at least 20%. Students will learn a variety of data analysis and building diagnostic techniques as well as gain experience working with municipal clients.