MArch 3 Curriculum Map

The Master of Architecture (MArch) is an accredited first professional degree designed to prepare students for licensure as architects. The MArch 3 track is specifically tailored for students with undergraduate degrees in disciplines other than Architecture. This track begins with one year of preparatory studies, comprising 37 credit hours, followed by two years of MArch coursework totaling 52 credit hours.

We welcome students from all academic backgrounds to consider this program as a pathway into the architecture profession. The MArch 3 track offers admission in the Fall, Spring, and Summer terms.

Students are encouraged to follow the recommended course sequence to acquire the essential skills and knowledge necessary for success in the field.

Courses marked with an asterisk require completion of prerequisites. Following the curriculum map ensures that all prerequisites are met in the proper sequence.

Preparation Year – Fall Semester:

  • ARC 5156: Intro Studio I
  • ARC 5011: Introduction to Architecture + Design
  • ARC 5923: Principles of Structures
  • ARC 5943: Principles of Environmental Systems
  • ARC 5913: Introduction to Construction Materials and Concepts

This 16-credit hour semester provides MArch 3 students with the foundational skills needed to advance in their architectural studies.

Preparation Year – Spring Semester:

  • ARC 5166: Intro Studio II *
  • ARC 5623: History of Modern Architecture
  • ARC 5933: Structures (Optional) *
  • ARC 5953: Environmental Systems (Optional) *

Students must complete ARC 5933 and ARC 5953 as part of the MArch 3 program. However, these courses may be deferred to the Summer Semester if preferred.

Preparation Year – Summer Semester:

  • ARC 5176: Intro Studio III *
  • ARC 5933: Structures (if deferred from Spring) *
  • ARC 5953: Environmental Systems (if deferred from Spring) *

Depending on the student’s schedule, this semester ranges from 6 to 9 credit hours.

First Year – Fall Semester:

  • ARC 6126: Advanced Design Studio *
  • ARC 5713: Theory + Criticism
  • ARC 5733: Advanced Building Technology + Sustainability

As the first official year of MArch coursework, students will take 12 credit hours.

First Year – Spring Semester:

  • ARC 6136: Advanced Topics Studio *
  • ARC 5193: Principles of Global Architecture
  • Graduate Elective #1

This Spring semester continues with 13 credit hours of architectural studies.

Second Year – Fall Semester:

  • ARC 6146: Advanced Technical Studio *
  • ARC 6931: Master's Project Preparation *
  • Graduate Elective #2
  • Graduate Elective #3
  • Graduate Elective #4 (Optional)

Students will take between 12 and 15 credit hours, depending on whether Graduate Elective #4 is completed during this semester or deferred to the Spring.

Second Year – Spring Semester:

  • ARC 6996: Master's Project Studio *
  • ARC 5133: Professional Practice *
  • Graduate Elective #5
  • Graduate Elective #4 (if deferred from Fall)

This final semester also ranges from 12 to 15 credit hours, depending on when Graduate Elective #4 is completed.