The Master of Science in Architecture is a STEM-designated graduate degree devoted to fundamental and applied research in the built environment with a flexible curriculum of approximately three semesters.
As the only graduate architecture program of its kind that allows you to move across and between concentration areas to form your own specialization in architectural practice and research, you’ll develop specialized skills in a concentration area while broadening knowledge, critical thinking and understanding about research practices in architecture and the built environment.
The first semester includes a common foundation in research methods and program colloquium, after which each student establishes an individual research project through a research seminar culminating in an original master’s project or thesis.
We offer engaging courses and advising in research areas that align with our faculty members’ expertise, including but not limited to:
- Design and energy conservation
- Emerging building technologies
- Health and the built environment
- Heritage conservation
- Sustainable market transformation
- Urban design
The University of Arizona Master of Science in Architecture provides a foundation in applied research in architecture and the built environment through:
Theory Development
Including conceptual framework, problem characterization, potential futures and critical inquiry.
Technical Skills
Including materials, archival research, fabrication, digital design, instrumentation, simulation and analysis.
Research Skills
Including subject development, project execution, synthesis and documentation.
Curriculum
A minimum of 31 units of coursework is required for the Master of Science in Architecture.
Electives are recommended in consultation with faculty chair/academic advisor. We recommend a mix of theory and skills development electives that support the degree candidate’s thesis research.
*For M.Arch/MS.Arch Dual Degree Only: An M.Arch studio may be used to substitute two electives. Please meet with your faculty advisor to discuss this option.
FALL 1
| Course # | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| ARC 597A | Architectural Research Methods | 3 |
| ARC 599 | MS.Arch Colloquium | 1 |
| Elective (500-level or greater)* | 3 | |
| Elective (500-level or greater)* | 3 | |
| Elective (500-level or greater) | 3 | |
| TOTAL | 13 |
SPRING 1
| Course # | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| ARC 900 | Research Seminar | 3 |
| Elective (500-level or greater)* | 3 | |
| Elective (500-level or greater)* | 3 | |
| TOTAL | 9 |
FALL 2
| Course # | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| ARC 909/910 | Master's Report/Thesis | 6 |
| Elective (500-level or greater) | 3 | |
| TOTAL | 9 |
Core Courses
The courses listed here align with the curriculum above, and are subject to change.
Individual research, not related to thesis or dissertation preparation, by graduate students.
Typically offered: Fall/Spring
Units: 3
Individual study or special project or formal report thereof submitted in lieu of thesis for certain master's degrees.
Typically offered: Fall/Spring
Units: Variable
Research for the master's thesis (whether library research, laboratory or field observation or research, artistic creation or thesis writing). Maximum total credit permitted varies with the major department.
Typically Offered: Fall/Spring
Units: Variable
This course is all about answering questions and solving problems in urban environments. Students will get to choose what content to study during the course; i.e. transportation, the environment, social equity, etc. Graduate students can use the work from this class to advance their thesis or professional project work.
Typically Offered: Fall
Units: 3
This colloquium aims to provide a focused forum for discussions regarding ongoing strategies for research, writing, and practice in the built environment. It will examine the status of architectural research and its application. It will introduce students to the objectives of the MS.Arch program. Students are expected to develop an awareness of diverse faculty and student research interests in the built environment and related fields.
Typically Offered: Fall
Units: 1