Architectural Design BFA Program

The Architectural Design BFA Program is a pre-professional major that prepares students for graduate studies as well as entry-level positions in a variety of design fields, including architecture, interior design, and landscape architecture.

Program Objectives

The program aims to provide students with numerous skills, from handcrafted prototypes to digital fabrication, and from orthographic drawing to models and full-scale design-build projects. The studio culture seeks to encourage experimentation with ideas and concepts, and to develop physical, intellectual, and critical thought processes that empower students to design future environments.

Career Paths

Possible career paths for graduates of the program include:

• Architect
• Architectural Designer
• Architecture Photographer
• Construction Manager
• Interior Designer
• Design Director
• Environmental Designer
• Furniture Designer
• Product Designer
• Production Designer for TV, movies, and theatre
• Exhibit Designer

Student Experience

The program encourages an adventurous spirit in the studio and through travel beyond the campus. Students visit projects and firms in the mid-Atlantic region, and faculty and students often travel internationally to countries such as Sweden, Denmark, and Austria. Architectural Design students have formed and governed two chapters of national organizations about architecture.

Hardware and Software Requirements

The program requires all students to have a laptop computer equipped with necessary software. Suggested specifications include:

• Operating System (OS): Windows 11 Pro
• Storage (GB): 1TB Internal + external SSD
• Screen Size (IN): 16" FHD + auxiliary monitor
• Random Access Memory (RAM): 12GB
• Graphics Memory (VRAM): 12GB GDDR6
• Processor (CPU): Intel 13th Gen i7 / i9 Required specifications include:
• Operating System (OS): Windows 11 or MacOS
• Storage (GB): 1TB
• Screen Size (IN): 16" FHD
• Random Access Memory (RAM): 6GB
• Graphics Memory (VRAM): 6GB GDDR6
• Processor (CPU): Intel 13th Gen i5 or Mac pro Required software includes:
• Adobe Creative Cloud
• Microsoft 365
• Rhino
• SketchUp Pro
• Zoom

Faculty

The Architectural Design faculty includes:

• Nick Brinen, Assistant Professor of Architectural Design
• Jori Erdman, Associate Director of SADAH, Architectural Design Program Coordinator, Professor of Architectural Design
• Dylan Krueger, Assistant Professor of Architectural Design
• Lemara Morrell, Visiting Assistant Professor of Architectural Design
• William Tate, Professor of Architectural and Industrial Design
• Traci Wile, Assistant Professor of Architectural Design

Note

Students should be aware that educational requirements for architectural licensing vary from state to state, and the BFA degree may not qualify graduates for licensure in some states.

James Madison University

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Overview:

James Madison University (JMU) is a public research university located in Harrisonburg, Virginia. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant student life, and beautiful campus.

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Services Offered:

JMU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Libraries, career planning services, tutoring, and academic advising.

Student Life:

Housing, dining, clubs and organizations, recreational activities, and student government.

Health and Wellness:

Campus health center, counseling services, and wellness programs.

Financial Aid:

Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

JMU boasts a vibrant and active student body with a strong sense of community. Students can expect:

Living on Campus:

A variety of residence halls and apartment-style living options.

Clubs and Organizations:

Over 300 student organizations catering to diverse interests.

Spirit and Traditions:

Strong school spirit with numerous sporting events, concerts, and other campus traditions.

Harrisonburg:

A charming town with a thriving arts and culture scene, offering opportunities for exploration and entertainment.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Academic Programs:

JMU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in business, education, and the arts.

Vibrant Campus Life:

A lively and engaging campus environment with numerous opportunities for student involvement and personal growth.

Beautiful Campus:

A picturesque campus with modern facilities and a welcoming atmosphere.

Affordable Education:

JMU offers a relatively affordable education compared to other universities.

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Academic Programs:

JMU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Majors:

A diverse selection of majors across various disciplines, including business, education, engineering, health sciences, and the arts.

Graduate Programs:

Master's and doctoral programs in fields such as business, education, nursing, and public administration.

Research Opportunities:

Opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to engage in research projects with faculty mentors.

Study Abroad:

Programs to study abroad in various countries around the world.