Three-Year Master of Architecture
The Three-Year Master of Architecture is a professional degree pathway for students who hold a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in a field other than architecture.
Applicants should demonstrate some experience in the visual or design arts, mathematics through college algebra, and computer literacy.
The curriculum emphasizes integrated architectural design and its relationship to urban issues, tectonics and the technical knowledge required for professional practice. Coursework in architectural history and theory, building science, graphics, materials and making, design/build and international studies provides additional professional preparation and opportunities for specialization.
Curriculum
The three-year curriculum builds progressively from foundational design and representation skills to advanced studios, research and professional practice.
Year One
Year One begins with a two-quarter sequence combining design fundamentals with representation, history and theory. Students also begin a five-quarter design technology sequence addressing materials, structures and environmental systems through a collaborative teaching format.
Spring quarter begins a three-quarter sequence of core design studios, with the first studio emphasizing building assembly. This coursework helps prepare students for the Summer Internship Program sponsored by the Department of Architecture Professionals Advisory Council.
Year Two
Core studios expand in scale and complexity, addressing a broad range of architectural issues from urban conditions to ecological systems.
Spring quarter begins the first of two advanced studios. These studios, combined with research methods coursework, prepare students for the final research studio sequence or an independent master’s thesis.
Final Year and Advanced Study
The final four quarters incorporate professional practice, selectives and electives that allow students to deepen areas of interest and, when appropriate, pursue a degree option or certificate.
Download the M.Arch Curriculum (PDF)
Summer Internship Program
The Department of Architecture Professionals Advisory Council (PAC) sponsors a summer internship program for eligible first-year students in the three-year M.Arch pathway.
Interested students apply through the Department during winter quarter for internships taking place the following summer. The number of available internships varies each year based on voluntary firm participation and conditions in the building industry.
Professional Licensure
The M.Arch is a NAAB-accredited professional degree that prepares graduates for the pathway to architectural licensure. Licensure also requires professional experience and completion of the required licensing examination.