The Bachelor of Environmental Design curriculum is comprised of a shared core (lasting five semesters) followed by three semesters of course work focused on one of four specializations: architecture, landscape architecture, planning or design studies.

The shared core is innovative because it provides an intensive and balanced introduction to the traditional professions contained within the broad field of environmental design. The core provides students the information and flexibility to hone their career direction and specialization area. It allows opportunities for hands-on problem solving that features design studios as the primary teaching pedagogy. Anchored through a combination of lecture courses and studio instruction, the core curriculum builds upon studios where students solve design problems at three important scales of the built-environment: buildings, landscapes, and urban systems.

Prospective students often choose to enroll at CU in ENVD because they can advantageously leverage their first five semesters to help determine which specialization matches their strengths and aspirations. Others are attracted to ENVD because they can declare a specialization at the outset of their studies. Even more will choose ENVD because there is the opportunity to change their mind towards the end of the core and pursue a specialization to reflect their changing interests without a loss of credit or time towards graduation.  

The specialization—upper division coursework in the final three semesters—allows students to pursue in-depth projects and gain more specialized skills necessary for pre-professional work or further study. The semester prior to the senior year (a.k.a., PRAXIS) offers options and opportunities for students to experiment and explore personal interests. Alternatively, students can pursue approved international study abroad options as part of the curriculum as well. The final year culminates into the specific requirements for the chosen specialization.