Current Practices in Hygrothermal Design Education: Evidence from Nordic–Baltic Building Physics Curricula

Achieving a resilient and zero-emission building stock requires advanced knowledge in hygrothermal design. Educating in new and complex approaches to the design and construction of future-proof, durable, sustainable, and energy-efficient structures are important to equip professionals navigating and overcoming current challenges. This article provides an overview of the state-of-the-art building physics education in the Nordic and Baltic countries, with a focus on the design and technological aspects of building envelopes. The study analyses the content and scope of relevant courses, prerequisite structures, teaching methods, integration of digital tools, and progress in the field. The analysis aims to enhance inter-university cooperation in building physics education. The results indicate that Nordic and Baltic universities provide a strong foundation in the building physics basics, adequately preparing students for the design and calculation of thermal transmittance and hygrothermal performance, especially in aspects of water vapour diffusion and heat transfer. However, advanced topics in building physics, the design of building envelope structures for new and renovated buildings, and moisture safety during construction, are taught in fewer universities and to fewer students, which result in a shortage of specialists in these areas. Without sufficient knowledge, skills, and experience in hygrothermal design, building envelope structures may perform poorly in the future climate, or design documentation may lack sufficient details. To achieve a zero-emission, climate-resilient building stock, it's crucial to enhance current curricula in building physics. Integrating science and modern testing methods into design and construction is a key aspect to expanding students' knowledge of advanced building physics and envelope structures.