2026 CADC New Student Guide
Welcome to the College of Architecture, Design and Construction (CADC) at Auburn University.
The CADC’s nationally recognized programs in the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture (APLA); the McWhorter School of Building Science (BSCI); and the School of Industrial and Graphic Design (SIGD) offer distinctive professional and academic pathways shaped by project-based learning, outreach and service initiatives, industry collaboration, study abroad experiences, leadership opportunities and engagement with advanced faculty research, creative work and scholarship. Together, these schools form a dynamic collection of disciplines with distinct expertise, theoretical foundations, technological influences and professional methods.
Our distinguished faculty and dedicated staff foster a rigorous academic and social environment that foregrounds creative processes, critical thinking, collaboration and effective communication.
We embrace Auburn University’s land-grant mission and believe that design, across its scales, types and mediums, is essential for addressing contemporary challenges in our shared environment. Through teaching, research and outreach, we advance inventive approaches to shaping the built environment—from regions and landscapes to buildings, graphics, products, objects and details.
Join us at CADC to participate in projects and collaborations that shape communities, environments and everyday life.
Dawn Finley
Dean and McWhorter Endowed Chair
How to Use This Guide
As you begin your first year in the College of Architecture, Design and Construction, this guide is intended to help you navigate the programs, expectations and opportunities within the CADC.
Here, you will find information about academics, advising, course planning and the structure of your program. We encourage you to return to it throughout the year as questions arise and decisions take shape.
College is a time of exploration, and no one expects you to have everything figured out immediately. Ask questions, stay curious and take advantage of the people and resources around you. Our Office of Student Services team is ready to help as you chart your path forward.
We are excited to welcome you to the CADC community and look forward to supporting your growth during the years ahead.
About the CADC
The College of Architecture, Design and Construction comprises the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture; the McWhorter School of Building Science; and the School of Industrial and Graphic Design. Together, these disciplines prepare designers, makers, thinkers and builders to engage the challenges shaping the natural and built environments. Through rigorous academic programs, students learn to create, design and build with purpose, responsibility and imagination.
CADC Professional Fees
Within each program, a professional fee charge of $2,160 is tied to enrollment in specific trigger courses. During semesters when students are enrolled in these classes, they will be charged a professional fee. These courses are identified in the CADC curriculum models.
Professional fees partially offset the costs associated with achieving and maintaining rigorous, relevant and robust academic experiences for CADC students, and for providing them with the resources and support that they will need to be successful in their academic and professional careers. Learn more about the resources, support and opportunities provided by CADC Professional Fees.
Academic Advising
The College of Architecture, Design and Construction offers 1:1 academic advising for all majors within the college. The advising team guides students as they progress from freshmen or transfer orientation through to graduation. Contact the advising team with questions and concerns related to your academic progression. The advising office is located in 120 Dudley Hall.
Connect with your academic advisor regarding the following:
- Plan of Study
- Curriculum Advice
- Withdrawals
- Resignations
- Transient Forms
- GPA Verifications
- Incomplete Grade Forms
- Information on minors offered by the CADC
- Graduation Check
- DegreeWorks Verification