Master of Architecture

M.Arch Overview

Overview

In the M.Arch program, students can develop a specialized professional focus in one of the school’s Program Areas, or craft their own focus through courses within our college and across campus. Students may also elect to enroll in one of the school’s Joint Degree Programs. Located within a world-class research university, the M.Arch curriculum gives students the opportunity to work with faculty in an atmosphere of scholarship and innovation.

This NAAB-accredited professional degree is appropriate for students who have earned a B.S. in Architecture or its equivalent, and want to acquire the skills and knowledge needed to practice architecture and acquire licensure. Students must complete a total of 62 credit hours to graduate, including 46 hour of core requirements and 16 hours of electives.

STEM Classification and OPT Employment

Our M.Arch degree is STEM-classified. International students with an F-1 visa are eligible to remain in the US for OPT (Optional Practical Training) employment for up to three years and two months after graduation, and those granted an H-1b visa can stay an additional six years (for a total of 9 years).

Sample Schedule

First Semester: 14 core hours + electives

• ARCH 536: Planning and Design of Structural Systems (4 hours)
• ARCH 57X: Design Studio (6 hours)
• ARCH 577: Theories of Architecture (4 hours)
• Electives or requirements for focused area of study (variable)

Second Semester: 13 core hours + electives

• ARCH 517: Contemporary Architectural History (3 hours)
• ARCH 537: Architectural Control Systems (4 hours)
• ARCH 57X: Design Studio (6 hours)
• Electives or requirements for focused area of study (variable)

Third Semester: 6 core hours + electives

• ARCH 57X/575: Design Studio or Integrative Design Studio (6 hours)
• Electives or requirements for focused area of study (variable)

Fourth Semester: 13 core hours + electives

• ARCH 501: Professional Practice (3 hours)
• ARCH 538: Design and Construction Futures (4 hours)
• ARCH 57X/575: Design Studio or Integrative Design Studio (6 hours)
• Electives or requirements for focused area of study (variable)