Building Science Training

Building Science training courses are tailored to meet the needs of individuals ranging from beginners to experts in the field. These courses are designed to enhance your knowledge and equip you with the skills needed to take your career to the next level, regardless of whether you are new to the topic or have years of experience.

This graphic shows the training highlights for Building Science in 2023.

2023 Training Highlights

From all throughout the United States and its territories, FEMA Building Science was able to provide nationwide training throughout Fiscal Year 2023, with over 26 sessions held and 603+ participants engaged.

FEMA believes education can transform individuals and communities and is deeply committed to fostering growth and enhancing capabilities across various disciplines. Our dedication to providing top-tier training extends to FEMA staff, State, local, tribal and territorial government (SLTTs) officials, communities nationwide and building professionals.

Our goal is to create a skilled, resilient society ready to face challenges with confidence. Through our Building Science training courses, participants gain access to expert insights, cutting-edge research, and practical tools to address complex challenges in building design, construction, and resilience.

Did you know?

Other courses and education opportunities are available on demand.  We can provide training via webinar on Building Codes, MAT report findings, and more! Contact us today to learn more!

Whether you’re a seasoned professional seeking to stay abreast of industry advancements or a newcomer eager to develop a strong foundation in building science principles, FEMA’s comprehensive training programs offer valuable resources to support your professional growth and contribute to building safer, more resilient communities. Join us in our mission to build a brighter, more resilient future through education and innovation in building science.

If you're looking for more information on the various courses available to you, don't hesitate to contact the FEMA Building Science Helpline or call 866-927-2104.

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Additional building science and building code courses are available from the National Earthquake Technical Assistance Program.

Course Catalog

Please note, CEUs and other credits are often available for the following courses.

Advanced Building Science Flood and Wind Mitigation Series

This advanced topic course addresses the ever-changing challenges faced by flood and wind risk through a comprehensive approach of best-practice mitigation, code compliance, designing for future conditions, and FEMA policies and funding mechanisms aimed at achieving higher standards.

Fundamentals of Building Science

Designed to present information on the risks posed by natural hazards and the basic scientific and engineering concepts for hazard-resistant buildings and facilities. The course reviews information about the impacts of wind, flood, earthquake and wildland/urban interface fire on the constructed environment. It explains key performance and construction issues related to floods, wind, wildfires and earthquakes.

IS-279.A: Introduction to Retrofitting Flood-Prone Residential Buildings

This course is designed to provide essential, nontechnical information about retrofitting existing flood-prone residential structures as presented in the third edition of FEMA P-259, Engineering Principles and Practices for Retrofitting Flood-Prone Residential Structures.

IS-280: Overview of Engineering Principles and Practices for Retrofitting Flood-Prone Residential Structures

This course serves as an overview of the contents of the revised FEMA P-259, Engineering Principles and Practices for Retrofitting Flood-Prone Residential Structures.

Residential Coastal Construction

Designed to train participants in using the FEMA P-55 Coastal Construction Manual. This course and publication provide a comprehensive approach to planning, siting, designing, constructing, and maintaining homes in the coastal environment. The course contains in-depth descriptions of design, construction and maintenance practices that, when followed, will increase the durability of residential buildings in the harsh coastal environment and reduce economic losses associated with coastal natural disasters.

Retrofitting Flood-Prone Residential Buildings

Designed to offer engineering and economic guidance specifically targeted at architects, engineers, and local code enforcement officials. It focuses on retrofitting existing one- to four-family residential structures in areas prone to flooding. The course aims to present retrofitting measures that are creative and practical, compliant with applicable floodplain regulations, and generally satisfactory to homeowners.

Substantial Damage Estimation

This course trains state and local officials on the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) requirements of Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage (SI/SD) determinations. In addition, the course trains participants on using FEMA’s Substantial Damage Estimator (SDE) Tool, which assists state and local officials in estimating substantial damage for residential and non-residential structures per the NFIP requirements adopted by the communities.
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