Master of Architecture Program

The Master of Architecture degree is accredited by the National Architecture Accrediting Board. The program strives to achieve and maintain education, research, and creative excellence, serving and transforming society and communities, nurturing the environment, and building professional bearings.

Program Emphases

• Transformative urban design and community development
• Architecture of the Mississippi Delta and Heartland region
• Critical engagement, multiregional dialog, and global practice
• Development of technical skills and performance-driven design
• Social and environmentally responsive architecture

Program Structure

The Master of Architecture program is designed as a combined undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies and Graduate professional program for architecture professionals seeking an accredited Master of Architecture degree that leads to National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) certification.

On-Campus Pathway

An energized campus/studio atmosphere fosters community support and scholarly discourse. Unique campus opportunities and activities allow students to customize degrees around individual professional goals.

Online Pathway

The online/hybrid program consists of the same curricular and semester-structured course format as the on-campus program, but predominantly utilizes distance education methods and learning platforms.

Graduate Program Details

The graduate program consists of 42 total credit hours, completed over four continuous semesters, allowing the student to graduate in 15 months. The beginning summer semester (for on-campus students) provides an initial experience and overview of regional architecture and urban design issues.

Options for Graduate Study

Students can earn their degree in one of three ways:

• Complete a design thesis project
• Write a thesis
• Write a research paper

Curricular Guides

There are three tracks for the Master of Architecture program:

15-Month Track

For students with a 4-year pre-professional degree in architecture, consisting of courses taken in four consecutive semesters starting in the summer term.

27-Month Track

For students with a 4-year degree in interior design or an allied area of practice, requiring additional undergraduate curriculum before the full graduate curriculum.

39-Month Track

For students with any other four-year degree, completing a significant portion of the undergraduate curriculum before the graduate curriculum.

Accreditation

The Master of Architecture degree program is accredited by the National Architecture Accrediting Board. Every student graduating with a Master of Architecture degree must meet the National Architectural Accrediting Board Student Performance Criteria.

Program Focus

The broad-based program focuses on the study of vital, contemporary topics, including:

• Architecture of the Upper Mississippi Delta Region
• Global architecture
• Development of technical tools to promote excellence in architecture
• Ecologically responsive architecture

Students are required to develop individual research theses and/or design projects, augmented by selected seminars and interdisciplinary courses.

Southern Illinois University

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Overview:

Southern Illinois University (SIU) is a public research university located in Carbondale, Illinois. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as online and off-campus options. SIU is known for its commitment to access and opportunity, fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

SIU offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities. Students can participate in outdoor adventures, explore the university's 3,000 acres of hills and forests, and engage in various recreational activities. The university also boasts a strong athletic program, with the Salukis competing in NCAA Division I athletics.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable Education:

SIU offers in-state tuition rates to all students, regardless of their residency.

Small Class Sizes:

The university has a low student-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and smaller class sizes.

Diverse Academic Programs:

SIU offers over 200 majors, minors, and specializations, providing students with a wide range of academic options.

Research Opportunities:

SIU is a research-intensive university, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research projects.

Strong Alumni Network:

SIU has a large and active alumni network, offering support and connections to students after graduation.

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Academic Programs:

SIU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Majors:

A variety of undergraduate majors are available, including engineering, business, education, and the arts.

Graduate Programs:

SIU offers a wide range of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees in various fields.

Online Programs:

SIU offers a variety of online programs, allowing students to pursue their education from anywhere in the world.

Off-Campus Programs:

SIU offers off-campus programs at various locations, providing students with opportunities to study and learn in different environments.

Simmons Law School:

SIU's law school offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.

School of Medicine:

SIU's medical school offers a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree.

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Other:

SIU is committed to providing a safe and inclusive campus environment for all students. The university offers a variety of resources and support services to help students succeed, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.