Design Theory Emphasis

The graduate emphasis in Design Theory enables the student to study specific issues in architectural and urban theory and history. The studies are not based on a rigidly defined set of theoretical courses. In general, studies consist of the development of a theoretical framework, through selected courses and readings, which are subsequently used in the analysis and examination of a particular architectural or urban phenomenon. The inquiry may range from the poetic and speculative to the applicative and pragmatic. Analytical methods may encompass a wide range of potential techniques from critical literature review to in-depth building design.

Required coursework

Non-Thesis Option

ARCH 715         Topics in Architecture Seminar               3
ARCH 725         Research Methods/Architecture              3
ARCH 830         Advanced Architectural Studies              5-8
Departmental electives                                                        10-13
Other electives                                                                       6

TOTAL CREDITS                                                                    30

Or

Thesis Option

ARCH 715         Topics in Architecture Seminar               3
ARCH 725         Research Methods/Architecture             3
ARCH 899         Thesis                                                           8
Departmental electives                                                         9
Other electives                                                                       7

TOTAL CREDITS                                                                 30

All MS Arch students will be required to take a class that provides them with the tools to facilitate in-depth academic research. This class, Research Methods in Architecture, also includes graduate students in Landscape Architecture and Regional and Community Planning. Other coursework will be determined by the selected area of emphasis and individual programs of study.

Recommended Electives

Students consult with their advisors to select courses that match their educational and research objectives. Appropriate graduate-level history and theory courses will be identified each semester from among current course offerings. Normally, at least one three -hour course on an aspect of contemporary architecture is taken by students in the design theory option. It is recommended that international students take one or more courses concerned with American architecture and urbanism. The Design Theory emphasis requires nine of the sixteen elective credits be taken within the discipline; sic or seven may be taken outside the Department of Architecture. Outside electives should be related to the student’s overall program of study, to reinforce or complement other courses and their thesis topic or non-thesis focus.

ARCH 601 Topics in History of Designed Environment     3
ARCH 710 Topics in Design Methods                                    3
ARCH 715 Topics in Architecture                                          3
ARCH 830 Advanced Architectural Studies                       variable
PLAN 710 Planning Analysis                                                   3
PLAN 715 Planning Principles                                                 3
PLAN 745 Urban Design Seminar                                           3
PLAN 815 Preservation Planning                                            3