Architecture (MA)
Architecture (MA)
The Master of Arts in Advanced Architectural Design (MA-ARH) program prepares the student through the process of critical thinking, designing, and making to provide meaningful contributions to architectural design. We work to develop each student’s individual interest through critical thought, rigorous exploration, and personal vision.
The MA-ARH Track 1 program is designed for students who have graduated from Bachelor’s program in Architecture, Environmental Design, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture, or Urban Design and Engineering.
The Master of Arts degree program is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
B.Arch BA M.Arch Track 1 M.Arch Track 2 MA Track 2Master of Arts in Advanced Architectural Design (MA-ARH) Degree – Track 1
Available Online & On Campus
Major Classes
Unit Requirements
| Major Coursework | Units |
|---|---|
| Major | 27 |
| Major by Advisement | 6 |
| Electives | 3 |
| Total | 36 |
Degree Requirements
MA ADVANCED ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
- Successful completion of Final Thesis Project
- Minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA
- Minimum grade of C in all required 36 units
Track 1 and Track 2 Placement
The Master of Arts in Advanced Architectural Design (MA-ARH I Track 1 and MA-ARH II Track 2) program allows students to specialize in a particular area of interest. Dedicated to advanced architectural design investigations immersed inside a large and vibrant art and design university, the program has an exceptional profile. Students develop their own interest covering diverse fields that mediate between contemporary architectural developments, design theory, and emerging technology. Through a curriculum lead by inspiring faculty, we enable our students to become responsible leaders in their field, possessing the skills to envision, design and construct a desirable and viable future, and therefore actively contribute towards the evolution of society and culture.
- Applicants who graduate from a NAAB-accredited 5 year B.ARCH program or equivalent are eligible for MA-ARH I (36 units). Final placement will be determined after portfolio review.
- Applicants who graduate from a 4 or 5 year non-NAAB-accredited Bachelor’s program in Architecture, Environmental Design, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture, Urban Design and Engineering are eligible for MA-ARH I (36 units). Final placement will be determined after transcripts and portfolio review.
- Applicants who graduate with an unrelated undergraduate degree will be placed into the MA-ARH II (60 units).
- Applicants interested in Architectural licensure in the United States should consider the NAAB-Accredited M.Arch program. This might also apply to international students when their country of origin requires a professionally accredited degree (NAAB or equivalent) in order to obtain an architecture license in this country.
Note for English as a Second Language Students: All placement into architecture classes is pending ESL evaluation, ESL 603 placement necessary to start advanced architectural design classes.
Program Learning Outcomes
Graduate students will meet the following student performance criteria:
Design
- Demonstrate development of design exploration and understanding throughout the program
Visual Communication
- Visually communicate ideas through multiple representation methods
- Visually communicate ideas through architectural drawings: site plan, plan, section, elevation, and 3D representation
- Produce accurate physical models of design ideas
Written Communication
- Effectively summarize architectural projects and design process in well-crafted proposals and final portfolio book
Presentation Skills
- Professionally present design proposal and final projects
Building Systems, Materials and Methods
- Demonstrate understanding of material systems and construction methods necessary for advanced architectural design projects
- Demonstrate understanding of the general structure of the project
Portfolio Development
- Demonstrate development of a clear area of focus for the duration of the program
- Present advanced architectural design projects in a final, well-crafted portfolio book
Academy of Art University Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Academy of Art University will demonstrate the ability to:
- Produce a body of work suitable for seeking professional opportunities in their chosen field of art and design.
- Solve creative problems within their field of art and design, including research and synthesis of technical, aesthetic, and conceptual knowledge.
- Communicate their ideas professionally and connect with their intended audience using visual, oral, and written presentation skills relevant to their field.
- Execute technical, aesthetic, and conceptual decisions based on an understanding of art and design principles.
- Evaluate work in their field, including their own work, using professional terminology.
- Recognize the influence of major cultural and aesthetic trends, both historical and contemporary, on art and design products.
- Learn the professional skills and behaviors necessary to compete in the global marketplace for art and design.
- Engage with a variety of communities beyond the classroom through internship opportunities, study abroad programs, athletics, student interest clubs as well as collaborative, civic and pro bono projects.
*Semester plans are subject to change at any time. Semester breakdowns displayed are suggested and additional options are available to help customize your educational experience. Speak to an admissions or student services representative for more information. Please see our catalog for more details at: https://catalog.academyart.edu
