Master’s Degree in Architecture

The exact origin of architecture could be said to date back to the Neolithic period, which is around 10,000 BC, about the time humans moved from living in caves. From the end of the stone age to the modern world, architecture is a big part of how we live, where we live, and can be a great career path to pursue.

The overall job outlook for architecture and engineering according to BLS is projected to grow from 2020-2030, which is about average for all occupations.

Online or In-person Master’s in Architecture

When it comes to getting your master’s degree in architecture, you can find an in-person program or an online program. The benefits of an online program may appeal to working professionals or those looking for a career transition. In-person programs may appeal more to those coming from undergraduate programs or those who simply want that in-person experience. Some online programs could have an in-person element to them.

A Master’s in Architecture

Going to get your master’s in architecture is a good idea if you would like to pursue this career path. Having a master’s degree can be a stepping stone to going on to get your Ph.D. or can give you an advantage when looking for a career after you graduate. Many positions require a master’s in architecture.

Within the world of architecture, you have a couple of options for getting your master’s in architecture. The first is to get your M.Arch for students with a non-architecture bachelor’s degree. This would take you between 3-4 years. The other option is to get your M.Arch for students with a pre-professional bachelor’s degree in architecture or architecture history. This program would take you two years.

Concentrations in Architecture

Different concentrations will have different types of coursework. Here are some concentrations that you might find in a master’s of architecture program:

Sustainable Design

Students will study design when it comes to environmental, social, and economic impacts on society.

• Urban Design - Students will study the design of urban areas, what should be built, and how outdoor areas are used.
• Building Performance - Students study how to integrate structures and enclosures into the environment as well as related building systems.
• History and Theory - Students analyze how buildings and structures have been built throughout time and across the world.
• Landscape Architecture - Students study the design of outdoor areas, landmarks, and structures.

Classes in Architecture

The classes you take in a master’s of architecture program will depend on your concentration. Here are a few examples of classes you might take while getting your master’s degree.

• Environmental Systems– this class is about the aspects of the physical environment that directly affect people as well as buildings.
• Structural Design– this class is about the different design systems as well as comparing traditional design approaches and new methods.
• Cases in Contemporary Construction – this class is about the design and construction of buildings and examples of different construction techniques.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements differ based on the school and program, however, most will require students to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school, to complete an application essay, and submit letters of recommendation. Students can have a bachelor’s degree in architecture or in another field. The difference would be when it came to which M.Arch program you would be in.

Some schools might also require professional experience, but even if the school doesn’t, it can help to have that work experience to put on the application. Schools usually also want students to have a 3.0 GPA or higher.

How to Choose a Program

There are many different factors when choosing the right architecture M.Arch program. Students should look at the length of each program, the course format, available concentrations, and final project requirements. Programs can be between two to four years long. It also might depend on if the student goes full or part-time. Students should also consider the curriculum and the cost.

It is important that you find a program that is accredited by the NAAB, the National Architectural Accrediting Board. In most states, you will need to have a degree from one of these programs in order to get licensed.