Building Information Modeling

Purdue University in West Lafayette

Combining graphics expertise with broad construction knowledge, building information modeling (BIM) is helping to revolutionize the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry through its transformative and collaborative approach.

When you major in building information modeling (sometimes called “BIM modeling”) at Purdue University, you’ll gain skills that will help a construction team create detailed designs and documentation. The 3D computer model is at the heart of BIM. Once you have created a model using BIM software like AutoCAD or Revit, you can view the structure from inside specific rooms, from any angles, and even with different materials such as brick or siding. You will learn about a wide range of topics necessary in the field, such as carpentry, steel, and plumbing and electrical trades. On the job, your work will be used by design teams and project managers to assist in every step of the construction process, from material selection to estimating.

The Purdue Polytechnic Institute is one of 10 academic colleges at Purdue University. The Polytechnic specializes in team-based labs where you’ll test ideas, take things apart and put them back together — only better. You’ll learn side-by-side with professors who have worked in the industry and thrive on combining theory, imagination and real-world application. In this innovative environment, you'll learn by doing — gaining deep technical knowledge and applied skills in your chosen discipline coupled with problem-solving, critical-thinking, communication and leadership skills employers desire.