Sustainability in the Built Environment: Green Building Rating Systems

$299

Scheduled

10 - 15 Hours to complete

Overview

The course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of sustainability and its critical role in the design process. You will learn techniques and strategies to design the built environment more intelligently—maximizing the use of renewable energy, minimizing reliance on non-renewable resources, reducing pollution and waste, and lowering costs—all while enhancing occupant health, comfort, safety, and well-being. 

A key focus of this course is the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED rating system, one of the most widely recognized sustainable design evaluation tools in the construction industry. Through this course, you will:

  • Explore concepts and criteria used to assess sustainability in the built environment.
  • Gain a foundational understanding of the International WELL Building Institute Standard and its methods for creating healthy, productive indoor environments
  • Gain fundamental knowledge of green design concepts and explore current sustainable building rating systems,

Throughout the course, you will engage in diverse activities such as:

  • Readings
  • Reflections
  • Video analysis
  • Quizzes
  • Discussions
  • Projects to build your portfolio.

These activities are designed to give you hands-on experience and a thorough understanding of sustainable interior architecture and related technologies. 

Course Modules

In this module, we’ll explore the foundations of sustainable interior design by examining key green building rating systems, including LEED.

Who this course is designed for

  • Architects, interior designers, and urban planners looking to integrate sustainable and health-focused practices into their designs.
  • Mechanical, civil, and environmental engineers working on energy systems, water management, and sustainable infrastructure.
  • Construction managers, contractors, and builders aiming to work on green-certified projects.
  • Those building a career in corporate sustainability, ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance), or green building consulting.
  • College or graduate students studying architecture, engineering, environmental science, public health, or urban planning.

Outcomes

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:

  • Define key terms and concepts of sustainability.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of how built environments affect ecosystems.
  • Apply methods of sustainable design and green building principles to interior spaces.
  • Use basic design principles and natural elements to create environmentally responsible interiors.
  • Understand the LEED rating system, concepts and principles, including LEED ID+C (Interior Design and Construction).
  • Understand the WELL Standard and its seven key features: air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind.

Practical skills you will develop

This program equips learners with vital skills to thrive in today's complex workforce. Key skills include:

Sustainable design
LEED accreditation
LEED green associate
Green building
Energy codes
Interior architecture

These skills directly apply to these careers

Project Manager

Leads planning, execution, and delivery of projects while managing teams, timelines, and budgets to meet strategic goals.

Median Salary: $116,000

Sustainability Specialist

Addresses environmental sustainability issues for organizations, develops strategies for reducing energy costs, and promotes environmentally friendly practices.

Median Salary: $97,723

Program support

Contact
Have additional questions?

Please reach out to Nina Sharp (nina.sharp@asu.edu) for course related questions.

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