Program Overview

Master of Architecture Program Overview

The Master of Architecture degree prepares graduates with the educational qualifications needed for professional licensure and rewarding design careers. Graduates are equipped to navigate different contexts, think from multiple perspectives, and develop innovative solutions to the world’s design challenges. It is a course-based degree, which means no research thesis is required.

Program Structure

The Master of Architecture program is structured around a core studio sequence. Required courses and electives make up the remainder of the program. Students will find the most flexibility in these areas when building and personalizing the program to desired combinations, sequences, specializations, and interests.

Degree Requirements

In addition to the Faculty of Graduate Studies requirements, successful completion of the MArch must include the following academic requirements:

• Foundation Year (Qualifying Year) - 31.5 units
  • Complete ALL of the following Courses:
    • ARCH500 - Sustainability in the Built Environment
    • ARCH502 - History of Architecture and Human Settlements I - Premodern Traditions of the World
    • ARCH504 - Graphics Workshop I
    • ARCH506 - Studio I in Architecture
    • ARCH508 - Building Science and Technology I
    • ARCH510 - History of Architecture and Human Settlements II - The Rise of Modernity, 1750 to Present
    • ARCH512 - Graphics Workshop II
    • ARCH514 - Studio II in Architecture
    • ARCH672 - Experiential Learning in Architecture OR ARCH674 - Experiential Learning in Architecture
• 54 units of core required courses:
  • Complete ALL of the following Courses:
    • ARCH600 - Structures for Architects I
    • ARCH602 - Introduction to Design Theories
    • ARCH604 - Leadership in Architecture
    • ARCH606 - Intermediate Architectural Design Studio
    • ARCH608 - Architectural Lighting Design
    • ARCH610 - Structures for Architects II
    • ARCH612 - Building Science and Technology II
    • ARCH614 - Environmental Control Systems
    • ARCH616 - Comprehensive Architectural Design Studio
    • ARCH618 - Architectural Professional Practice
    • ARCH675 - Urban Systems
    • ARCH688 - City Studio in Architecture
    • ARCH700 - Senior Research Studio in Architecture I
    • ARCH702 - Senior Research Studio in Architecture II
• 3 units from:
  • Complete ONE of the following:
    • ARCH692 - Gillmor Theory Seminar
    • ARCH696 - Somerville Design Charrette
    • ARCH698 - Taylor Workshop
• 12 units from:
  • Earn at least 9 credits from the following:
    • ARCH680 - Special Topics in Architecture
    • ARCH682 - Special Topics in Architecture
    • ARCH684 - Special Topics in Architecture
    • ARCH686 - Topics Course in Architecture
• 3 units from:
  • Earn at least 3 credits from the following:
    • ARCH690 - Studio Research Selective
    • ARCH694 - Studio Research Selective
• 3 units from:
  • Earn at least 3 credits from the following:
    • ARCH670 - Experiential Learning in Architecture
    • ARCH672 - Experiential Learning in Architecture
    • ARCH674 - Experiential Learning in Architecture
    • ARCH676 - Experiential Learning in Architecture

Curriculum Features

Designers are increasingly being asked to respond to the most critical challenges and opportunities that face the world, such as mass urbanization, climate change, and social injustice. The curriculum provides students with specialized knowledge and hands-on, industry-led experience, and cultivates the ability for graduates to intentionally design thoughtful, integrated solutions for objects, buildings, and places in the decades to come:

• Work Integrated Learning & Research Studios: Students build their professional networks and experience in the context of design research across a wide range of concerns.
• Block Week Courses: Students work with prominent practitioners, educators, architects, planners, and landscape architects from around the world.
• Study Abroad: A well-rounded design education includes practical, real-world engagement with ideas, systems, and precedents around the world. Study Abroad opportunities range from one-week field study courses in cities like Los Angeles to semester-long programs in Japan and Spain.