Master of Architecture Programs
The Post-Professional M.Arch Program Curriculum
The post-professional degree curriculum has two primary components.
- 16 units of required introductory studies in design and theory (ARCH 605aL, ARCH 532, and ARCH 533, ARCH 561, ARCH 563)
- 32 units of individually tailored studies in design (ARCH 605bL), elective subjects, and thesis (ARCH 693L or 695L).
The introductory studies are intended to develop a platform of understanding about urban conditions and about the power of architecture to make a significant contribution to the quality of urban places and urban life. The individually tailored studies allow extensive opportunity to pursue specialized interests within the five design and research directions supported by the faculty.
The Master of Architecture Thesis or Directed Design Research Option
To complete the degree program, students undertake an independent thesis (ARCH 695L) or pursue directed design research (ARCH 693L) within the context of projects and studies advanced by the faculty. Both options carry the objective to add new understandings about the field of architecture. The selection of a program option and faculty committee approval is required at the beginning of the second semester of study. Whichever option is taken, each student is supported by a three-member faculty committee including a principal critic.
Master of Architecture Degree Requirements
Candidates for admission must hold a five-year Bachelor of Architecture degree.
Completion of the Master of Architecture degree requires 48 units, including 24 units of specified courses, 12 units of thesis or directed design research and 12 units of approved electives. All students are expected to enroll in a minimum of 12 units each semester.
48-Unit Curriculum Requirements
Semester One
Units
Total
Graduate Architecture Design
6
Elements of the Urban Landscape
2
Urban Landscape Case Studies
2
Electives
6
16
Semester Two
Units
Total
Graduate Architecture Design
6
M. Arch. Thesis, Option II or
M. Arch. Thesis, Option I
4
ARCH 561
Architecture in the Urban Landscape: Projects and Places
2
ARCH 563
Architecture in the Urban Landscape: Comparative Theories
2
Electives
2
16
Semester Three
Units
Total
M. Arch. Thesis,Option II or
M. Arch. Thesis,Option I
8
Electives
8
16
Applicants with exceptional qualifications and experience may be admitted with advanced standing. Students should request such consideration when applying for admission.
32-Unit Advanced Standing Curriculum Requirements
Admission with advanced standing is intended for mature architects with a well defined research focus.
Semester One
Units
Total
Graduate Architecture Design
6
Elements of the Urban Landscape
2
Urban Landscape Case Studies
2
M. Arch. Thesis,Option II or
M. Arch. Thesis,Option I
4
Electives
2
16
Semester Two
Units
Total
M. Arch. Thesis,Option II or
M. Arch. Thesis,Option I
8
ARCH 561
Architecture in the Urban Landscape: Projects and Places
2
ARCH 563
Architecture in the Urban Landscape: Comparative Theories
2
Electives
4
16
Master of Architecture/Master of Planning Dual Degree Program
Qualified students who are admitted to the graduate programs in both the School of Architecture and the School of Policy, Planning and Development may complete both degrees in a highly integrated four- or five- semester program. Such students must already possess a first professional degree in architecture. Graduates of this dual degree program are especially qualified for careers in major urban development, planning and urban design, and in redevelopment, traditional professional practice, research and teaching.
Completion of the dual degree requires 72 units.
Architecture Units
Electives: four units of elective courses taken within the School of Architecture.
Elements of the Urban Landscape
2
Urban Landscape Case Studies
2
ARCH 561
Architecture in the Urban Landscape: Projects and Places
2
ARCH 563
Architecture in the Urban Landscape: Comparative Theories
2
Graduate Architecture Design
6
Graduate Architecture Design
6
M. Arch. Thesis Option I or
M. Arch. Thesis Option II
4
M. Arch. Thesis, Option I or
M. Arch. Thesis, Option II
8
Urban Planning and Development Units
PLUS 501
Planning Theory, Process, and Implementation
2
PLUS 502
Statistics and Data Management
4
PLUS 505
Comparative International Development
2
PLUS 506
The Social Context of Planning
2
PLUS 507
Planning Analysis and Evaluation
2
PLUS 509
Legal Environment of Planning
2
PLUS 510
Historical Analysis of Urban Form and Planning Practice, or
RED 673
Design History and Criticism
2
Specialization Methodology: A four unit course selected from the list shown in the M.PL program.
Laboratory/Workshops: PLUS 676L (4,8) to total eight units.
Electives: eight units of elective courses taken within the School of Policy, Planning and Development.
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