What is the BPED program?
The Bachelor of Science in Building Performance and Environmental Design (BPED) prepares students for careers in architecture, interior design, construction, and sustainability. The program focuses on designing high-performance, environmentally responsible buildings using real-world tools and systems.
Where is the program located?
All classes are held in person at:
Palomar College – Rancho Bernardo Education Center
11111 Rancho Bernardo Rd, San Diego, CA 92127
Does Palomar College offer housing?
No. Palomar College does not provide student housing or dormitories.
When can I apply?
Applications open mid-December and close mid-February each year.
Is there rolling admission?
No. The BPED program does not offer rolling admissions.
All applicants must apply during the official application window.
What does the admissions process look like?
The admissions process includes:
1. Academic Eligibility Review
2. Portfolio Review
3. Interview (by invitation only)
4. Final Decision (Accepted, Waitlisted, or Denied)
How many students are admitted?
Each cohort includes 24 students.
Do current Palomar students need to apply?
All students must apply through the same admissions process.
This includes:
- Current Palomar College students
- Transfer students
- External applicants
What are the requirements to apply?
Applicants must have:
- An associate degree or equivalent preparation
- Completed lower-division coursework and general education requirements
- A minimum 3.0 GPA in major coursework
Learn more about admission requirements and prerequisite coursework: Program Requirements
What majors are accepted?
Relevant fields include:
- Architecture
- Interior Design
- Building Information Modeling (BIM)
- Construction and related disciplines
Learn more about programs accepted for admission: Programs Accepted for Admission
How do I know if I qualify?
If you have questions about meeting academic requirements or how your previous or current academic coursework meets the program requirements, it is recommended that you schedule an appointment with BPED Counselor Katie Morris.
Is the program full-time?
Yes. The BPED program is full-time only.
Can I take classes online?
No. The program is fully in-person at the Palomar College Rancho Bernardo Education Center.
How long is the program?
The program is a 2-year upper-division program.
What is the cohort model?
The program uses a cohort (lock-step) model, meaning:
- Students start together
- Take all courses together
- Progress through the program as a group
Must follow the required course sequence.
How intensive is the program?
Students should expect:
- A full-time course load (12–15 units per semester)
- Approximately 15–25+ hours per week outside of class for assignments and projects
What does a typical week look like?
Students participate in:
- Studio work
- Lectures
- Group projects
- Design development
- Presentations
Fall and Spring semester classes are typically held:
- Monday–Thursday between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
- Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.
What will I study?
The program integrates:
- Architectural design studios
- Building systems and environmental design
- Construction methodology
- Sustainability and performance analysis
- Professional practice and communication
Learn more about upper division course sequence: Upper Division Course Sequence
Will I build a portfolio?
Yes. Portfolio development is built into the curriculum and refined throughout the program.
Are there general education requirements?
Yes. The program includes upper-division general education courses integrated into the curriculum.
Is there study abroad?
Yes. The program includes a summer Global Case Studies course, which may offer an international travel option.
Is travel required?
No.
Students who cannot travel will complete a local alternative project.
Are internships included?
The program includes a required mentorship experience with industry partners, rather than a traditional internship.
What does mentorship include?
Students gain:
- Real-world professional experience
- Structured mentorship experiences with industry partners
- Networking opportunities
- Exposure to industry workflows
Will I interact with industry professionals?
Yes. Students participate in:
- Guest lectures
- Site visits
- Portfolio reviews
- Industry networking events
What careers can this lead to?
Graduates pursue roles in:
- Architecture
- Interior Design
- Construction and Development
- Environmental Consulting
- Public Sector and Regulatory Agencies
Does the program guarantee a job?
No. The program provides strong preparation, experience, and industry connections, but employment is not guaranteed.
What is the cost?
Estimated cost for the BPED upper-division coursework:
- ~$15,000 total (2 years)
- Approximately $7,500 per year
Learn more about program costs: Program Costs
Is financial aid available?
More information pertaining to the BPED program will be coming soon.
Palomar College Financial Aid information is available at the link included herein.
When does the program start?
Each cohort begins in the Fall (August) semester.
Can I start mid-year?
No. Students must begin in the fall term and progress with their cohort.
✅ Need More Help?
If you still have questions or want to check your eligibility:
📩 Email: bped@palomar.edu
📅 Or schedule a meeting with BPED Counselor Katie Morris