A key feature of all educational activities consists of the added value deriving from operating in a context where the professional/vocational aspect is associated with that of scientific and academic rigour.

The Department operates in the fields of first- and second-level university education, and continuing education. Bachelor degree courses are offered in the following areas: Architecture, Interior Design, Civil Engineering, Conservation and Visual Communication. Master degree courses are also offered: Master in Conservation and Restoration, Master of Science in Engineering with profile specialisation in Civil Engineering and Master in Interaction Design.
The continuing education programme consists of courses in the fields of  design, constructions, energy, the environment and territory.

The applied research projects executed by the Department enhance the transversal nature of the various areas of expertise, ensuring that partners in the local area are provided with support and innovation services. Active presence in a large number of national and international research cooperation networks, and constantly developing synergies with Swiss and foreign universities allow the Department to act as a reference scientific pole in its areas of competence.
The support provided by its subject area units, consisting of professors, teacher-researchers and doctorate students, ensures that the Department contributes to the management and sustainable development of its reference geographical area – the Alpine Cantons of the Swiss Confederation, and Northern Italy – while also providing the Cantonal Administration Authorities with scientific support services.

The transfer of new learning and knowledge to the local area constitutes a factor of growth and innovation for the community as a whole, a development process to which the Department of Environment, Constructions and Design makes an effective contribution.

Board

Departement Director
Jean-Pierre Candeloro

Institute of Applied Sustainability to the Built Environment
Director: Roman Rudel

Institute of Earth Sciences
Director: Christian Ambrosi

Institute of Materials and Constructions
Director: Christian Paglia

Institute of Microbiology
Director: Mauro Tonolla

Institute of Design
Director: Giulio Zaccarelli

Head of Bachelor's and Master's courses
Nicla Borioli

Head of Continuing education
Enrico Rossi