Graduate Program
The master of architecture† degree program is
intended for those interested in developing a specialization within the
field of architecture. The master of architecture degree is offered in
both Plan A (thesis) and Plan B (non-thesis, design project) programs.
The principal objective of this degree is to prepare students for
professional careers in architecture, and all students will be
introduced to the professional practice of architecture in the United
States. The master of architecture degree usually requires two or more
years of study depending on one’s prior academic background.
The graduate program offers concentrations in design,
construction technology, historic preservation, and housing and
community development studies for the Asia Pacific region.
Students enrolled in the Plan B program are expected
to focus on the comprehensive design of a major project, addressing the
particular and specialized requirements of a specific site and building
type.
Admission Requirements
Applications for the master of architecture degree
program may be submitted by those who hold one of the following
bachelor’s degrees:
1. A professional degree in architecture recognized by NAAB.
2. A professional degree in architecture from a foreign university that
is not recognized by NAAB.
3. A degree with a major in pre-architecture studies or in a major field
of study related to architecture.
4. A degree with no previous course work in architecture.
Candidates in category 1 receive a second professional
degree upon graduation. Candidates in categories 2, 3, and 4 receive a
NAAB-accredited first professional degree upon graduation.
The school accepts those without previous academic
work in architectural studies (application category 4) only if they have
satisfactorily completed college-level course work in mathematics
(analytic geometry and trigonometry), freehand drawing, and computer
applications (introductory level with some programming). Applicants who
wish to enter the profession of architecture but do not plan to
specialize should consider applying to the bachelor of architecture
program as second degree candidates. Category 4 applicants who do wish
to specialize are also encouraged to enter the bachelor of architecture
program as second degree candidates with the intent of applying later
for admission to the graduate program.
Students interested in the graduate program must
exhibit the qualifications that indicate probable success in a program
of graduate studies. Generally, a cumulative GPA of 3.0 in the last four
semesters of their previous academic work or reasonable field experience
is necessary. Foreign students must have a minimum TOEFL score of 550.
Application Procedures
Applicants must apply directly for admission to the
Graduate Division and must simultaneously submit the following to the
School of Architecture:
1. School Supplemental Information Form.
2. Statement of purpose and educational objectives in applying to the
graduate program.
3. Express Information Form.
4. Brochure of work consisting of photographs not exceeding 12 x 18
inches (30 x 45 cm). No original work. Applicants should include a
stamped, self-addressed envelope if brochure material is to be returned.
5. Three letters of recommendation.
Applications will be evaluated on the grounds of
academic qualifications and the ability of the School of Architecture to
offer sufficient academic resources to meet the applicant’s stated
goals and objectives.
Application Deadlines
Deadlines for the receipt of completed School of
Architecture applications are earlier than the application deadlines
established by the Graduate Division. The school must receive
applications by February 1 for fall semester and by September
1 for spring semester.
For foreign students, the application deadline for the
fall semester is January 15; spring semester, August 1.
Program Requirements
School Requirements
Students must satisfy the minimum requirements of the
Graduate Division (see “Graduate Education”) as well as School of
Architecture requirements outlined below.
Admission to Candidacy
Students who are not adequately prepared for graduate
studies in architecture will be required to complete additional course
work to satisfy the school’s undergraduate professional core. The
scope of this course work will be determined by a review of the
student’s academic performance and portfolio. Those who have earned
professional degrees in architecture that are accredited by the NAAB
will be exempt from this requirement. The undergraduate professional
core, preparatory course work normally associated with the bachelor of
architecture degree program, currently consists of the following
courses: PHYS 151, 152, and 151L or 152L; ARCH 101 or 102, 121, 201,
202, 211, 212, 213, 214, 271, 272, 301 or 361, 302 or 362, 311, 313,
331, 334, 433, and 434.
Students must also pass a comprehensive portfolio
review. Where performance on this review is clearly deficient,
additional course work may be required. Students who are already
licensed to practice architecture in any U.S. jurisdiction are exempt
from the comprehensive portfolio review.
Students must have successfully completed the
undergraduate professional core and comprehensive portfolio review prior
to admission to candidacy. |