Ball State University
Cooper Science Building
Ball State University envisioned a future where scientific education thrives through collaboration, innovation and adaptability. The transformation of the Cooper Science Building was a bold step toward that future—reimagining a 1960s facility into a dynamic hub for modern learning and research.
Originally home to programs in life sciences, nursing, natural resources, environmental science, geology, geography, physics and astronomy, the building’s aging infrastructure no longer supported the university’s evolving academic goals. Narrow corriders, outdated systems and limited classroom flexibility posed challenges to delivering cutting-edge education.
Ball State responded with a multi-project renovation strategy to minimize disruptions. In earlier projects such as Ball State’s STEM I and STEM II, life sciences and nursing programs were relocated to other new campus buildings. The renovations to Cooper Science (STEM III) marked a turning point—a complete interior and exterior transformation led by MSKTD & ASSOCIATES, in collaboration with SmithGroup and a multidisciplinary team of consultants.
A commitment to student success and faculty excellence drove every design decision. The interior was fully demolished and renovated to support flexible, modular learning environments. New elevator placements improved circulation, while collaborative spaces fostered interaction and discovery. The result is a building that equally supports both instruction and research.
Exterior upgrades—including a new roof, windows, façades and a light-filled multi-story lobby—reflect Ball State’s architectural heritage on the Quad while embracing a forward-looking identity.
The addition of a new Observatory enhances the astronomy program and complements the existing Planetarium, reinforcing Ball State’s leadership in science education. Throughout the project, MSKTD and our team navigated the complexities of pandemic-era construction, budget constraints and supply chain disruptions with resilience and clarity of purpose. The university’s leadership ensured that STEM III remained aligned with its academic mission and community values.
Achieving LEED® Silver certification, the revitalized Cooper Science Building stands as a testament to Ball State’s dedication to sustainability, innovation and student-centered design. Faculty, staff, and students describe the building as a vibrant focal point on campus—a place where tradition meets transformation, and where the next generation is inspired to lead.