Design Theory Emphasis

 The graduate emphasis in Design Theory enables the student to chose, focus and study specific issues in architectural and urban theory and history. The studies are not based on the rigidly defined set of theoretical courses but an association of students academic interests and faculty expertise. In general studies consist of the development of a theoretical framework, through selected courses and readings, which is subsequently used as an instrument for the analysis and examination of a particular architectural or urban phenomenon. The so defined inquiry ranges qualitatively from poetic and speculative to applicative and pragmatic whereby analytical methods encompass full degree of possible techniques from textual analysis to design iterations.

*other courses may be substituted if student selects the non-thesis option above.

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;
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.