Program Overview

Online Master of Architecture

The Online Master of Architecture (MArch) program at Arizona State University is designed for individuals interested in learning how to use architecture to enhance the lives of people and the natural environment. This program explores the theory and practice of building design, providing students with the experience needed to take the next step in their careers.

Program Overview

• The program includes a total of 12 classes, each lasting 7.5 weeks.
• The total credit hours required for the program are 48.
• The next start date for the program is 08/20/2026.

Mastering Architecture Skills

The program prepares students to work as architects or in related fields such as construction management or urban design. Graduates have gone on to become renowned architects around the world, contributing to the design of major projects. The skills and knowledge gained through this program include:

• Building technologies
• Construction and drafting
• History and theory of the built environment
• Spatial awareness
• Visual communication

What You'll Learn

This program integrates studio, theory, research, and practice, providing students with a comprehensive picture of the discipline. Students will study both the design and construction of buildings, as well as the history and theory of architecture. Courses focus on how buildings are put together, including various building components, common practices, and structures. Students will also learn how to draw buildings through scale and complexities, using software programs such as:

• Adobe Creative Suite
• Grasshopper
• Revit (BIM software)
• Rhino

Ideal Candidate

The online master's in architecture program is flexible and accommodates those already working in the field, as well as those looking to make a career change. If you have a background in architecture, this program provides the opportunity to earn an additional credential from a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) in two years. For those without an architecture background, a three-year program option is available, ideal for individuals with an undergraduate degree in a discipline other than architecture.

Professional Licensure and Certification

ASU's academic programs that prepare students for professional licensure or certification are designed to meet Arizona's requirements. Completing an ASU program may not fulfill educational requirements for licensure or certification in other states.

Diploma

Arizona State University's diplomas do not specify whether the degree was earned online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply state "Arizona State University."

Online Architecture Courses

The program includes a variety of course types, ranging from history and research to technology and hands-on projects. Studio experiences provide opportunities for students to design buildings and receive feedback. The course level students begin at depends on their program length.

Core Courses

• History 1: A survey of global history and theory of architecture and design spanning from prehistory to the seventeenth century.
• Representation 1: An introduction to the history and conventions of architectural drawings, models, diagrams, and other forms of representation.
• Studio 1: A project-based studio experience introducing an iterative design process.
• Technology 1: An introduction to conventions in architectural technology, including the first principles of structural forces and thermodynamics, as well as materials and methods of construction.
• Theory 1: An exploration of the foundation of conceptual architectural inquiry, stressing the reciprocal and interdependent relationship between design and history.
• History 2: A survey of global history and theory of architecture and design spanning from the seventeenth century to present.
• Representation 2: An exploration and analysis of techniques in architectural drawings, models, animation, virtual and augmented reality.
• Studio 2: A project-based studio experience further introducing an iterative design process.

Career Opportunities

This program prepares students to work as architects or in related fields. Career paths may include:

• Architect
• Architectural manager
• BIM manager
• Construction manager
• Developer
• Energy modeler
• Facilities manager
• Regional planner
• Urban planner

Faculty and Research

ASU's Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts is home to world-class scholars, artists, and designers who inspire students to shape the future. Faculty research areas include:

• Arts and design for social justice
• Arts, education, and arts-integrated education
• Arts, entrepreneurship, and cultural policy
• Community engagement and public policy
• Creative health collaborations
• Design, arts, science, and engineering
• The study of creative work

Application Requirements

Applicants to the master's in architecture program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts. The admission process is highly competitive.

Requirements

• A minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in the last 60 hours of the bachelor's program or in an applicable master's program.
• Graduate admission application and application fee.
• Official transcripts.
• Personal statement.
• Portfolio of creative work.
• Two letters of recommendation.

Additional Admission Information

• An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency.
• For applicants to the three-year program, the portfolio does not need to be a body of architectural work but can include photography, design, art, or any other work showcasing the applicant's creative interests and abilities.
• The two letters of recommendation should be from former faculty or supervisors.
• Submitting GRE scores is not required but is recommended if the applicant's background is broad or unrelated to art or design.

Join the School of Design at ASU

ASU's Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts is home to top-ranked programs from a variety of disciplines. The institute trains artists and designers to leverage their creativity and problem-solving abilities to advance culture, build community, and transform society.

About the Institute

• Over 5,300 students.
• 400 internationally recognized faculty members.
• 125 programs in arts, media, and engineering, design, dance, and theater, film, and music.
• Ranked among the top 15 fine arts schools in the nation.

Tuition Calculator

Use the tuition calculator to estimate full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Most students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more about estimating tuition and fees.