BS in Architectural Design + Technology

Program Overview

The program offers a structured curriculum with core classes, electives, and concentrations, preparing students for various career paths within architecture and related fields. The program boasts a team of experienced faculty, a collaborative studio environment, and study abroad opportunities, ensuring a comprehensive and rigorous education. Graduates are well-prepared for careers as architects, designers, project managers, and more.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Focus: The program emphasizes design studios, integrating technical, structural, and liberal arts through the design process of increasingly complex architectural projects.
• Objectives: The program aims to provide students with a challenging and comprehensive architectural education that prepares them for various career paths within architecture and related fields.
This includes developing a strong understanding of the necessary knowledge and skills for entry into architecture firms, the building industry, or pursuing further studies in architecture and related disciplines. This is complemented by various electives in later years, ensuring a well-rounded education.

Outline:

• Course Schedule: The program offers a structured curriculum with a sequence of courses that build upon each other.
Students typically progress through the program by taking specific courses in each year, starting with foundational concepts and advancing to more complex design projects.
• Core Classes: The program features a set of core classes that provide essential knowledge and skills in architectural design.
These include:
• ADT 112 | Intro to the Built Environment
• ADT 123 | Architectural Design I
• ADT 155 | Ancient through Renaissance Architecture
• ADT 156 | Architecture Since the Renaissance
• ADT 233 | Architectural Design II
• ADT 244 | Architectural Design III
• ADT 350 | Intro to Architectural Theory
• ADT 352 | Architectural Design IV
• ADT 358 | Architectural Computer Modeling and Rendering
• ADT 371 | Architectural Design V
• ADT 489 | Senior Thesis/Capstone Project
• Electives: The program offers a diverse range of electives that allow students to tailor their learning experience to specific interests and career goals.
These electives cover various topics, including:
• Principles of Landscape Architecture
• Site Planning and Development
• Intro to Chinese and Japanese Architecture
• Advanced Construction Documents
• Advanced Computer Applications in Architecture
• Sustainable Design
• Interior Architecture
• Issues in Preservations
• Architectural Rendering and Portfolio Development
• Professional Practice
• Concentrations: Students can choose from three concentrations to enhance their learning and career preparation:
• Construction Management: Focuses on construction processes, scheduling, and budgeting.
• Environmental Sustainability: Emphasizes advanced integrative practices and research in sustainable design principles.
• Professional Practice: Prepares students for professional practice and the management of an architecture firm.
• 5-year Bachelors + Masters: The program offers a unique opportunity to complete both a BS in Architectural Design + Technology and a Master of Architecture in five years.
This allows students to save on costs and enter the workforce sooner than traditional 4+2 programs.

Assessment:

• Evaluation Methods: The program utilizes various methods to assess student learning, including:
• Project-based assessments
• Critiques
• Presentations
• Portfolio reviews
• Written assignments
• Exams

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:
• Studio-based learning
• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Guest lectures
• Individualized instruction
• Faculty: The program boasts a team of experienced and dedicated faculty with expertise in various areas of architectural design.
The faculty actively engage with students, providing guidance and mentorship throughout their academic journey.

Careers:

• Career Paths: The program prepares graduates for a wide range of career paths within architecture and related fields.
Some potential career options include:
• Architect
• Architectural Designer
• Project Manager
• Construction Manager
• Building Information Modeling (BIM) Specialist
• Interior Designer
• Urban Planner
• Architectural Historian
• Architectural Researcher
• Career Opportunities: The program boasts a strong track record of placing graduates in leading companies and organizations within the architectural industry.
Some notable employers include:
• Amenta Emma Architects
• Crosskey Architects
• Disney Imagineers
• FIP Construction
• JCJ Architecture
• S/L/A/M Collaborative
• Tai Soo Kim Partners Architects
• Tecton Architects
• Turner Construction

Other:

• Studio Environment: The program emphasizes a collaborative and supportive studio environment that fosters creativity and learning.
The department is committed to creating and maintaining a learning culture that helps students achieve their goals and fulfill the program's mission. This allows students to gain valuable global perspectives and enhance their cultural understanding.
• Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET, ensuring a high standard of education and recognition within the industry.

The program's strong focus on design studios, diverse curriculum, and dedicated faculty create an exceptional learning environment that fosters creativity, innovation, and professional development.