Graduate Catalog: Architecture Program Courses

ARCH 550 Design Studio IX (B) (6)
The experimental design studio in which students explore new building technologies. This studio investigates ideas of technology transfer from other fields, such as biomimicry and nanotechnology. High performance building facades and zero-energy buildings will be studied.

ARCH 551 The Art and Craft of Building II (3)
An examination of how architecture engages natural and physical forces in both its conception and realization. Focusing on an in-depth description and analysis of key works by selected architects, the course explores the various design approaches and design methods architects employ that are specific to the discipline itself, including those dealing with program, site, materials, and construction. Includes readings of primary writings by the architects and drawing/model analyses. Additionally, collaborative study/analysis of selected paradigmatic works will be undertaken as group projects.

ARCH 552 Digital Media III (3)
Advanced computer applications for analysis, design, and presentation.

ARCH 553 LEED Accreditation II (3)
A highly focused preparation for the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Exam. Those passing this national exam become LEED Accredited Professionals, an indication of advanced knowledge of Sustainable Design practices in the U.S. Additionally, in-depth studies of major “Gold” and “Platinum” LEED-Certified buildings are pursued.

ARCH 560 Design Studio X (B) (6)
Students may continue the design research of their previous project or elect to begin a new, but similar type of architectural inquiry through design. Continuing projects will focus on design investigation at the scale of building components and their combinations as innovative assemblies.

ARCH 562 Professional Practice with Office Practicum (3)
Includes the content of ARCH 462 but requires students to track aspects of office practice directly with an area architectural firm though office visits, site visits, interviews, and attendance at project meetings.

ARCH 595 Thesis Research (3)
Examines research methods to assist in the formulation of the thesis undertaken in the final design project (ARCH 610). Case studies, investigations of professional literature, and readings from primary sources serve as primary research instruments.

ARCH 610 Design Thesis (6)
The terminal project in which students will be required to formulate a well-reasoned, clearly articulated position on an architectural, urban design or technical issue based on the research pursued in ARCH 595. After developing an overall design strategy, each student is expected to thoroughly test his/her position through in-depth investigation and project synthesis in the design studio.

ARCH 615 Environmental Law (3)
An overview of the field of environmental law and major related statutes. Explores particular categories, issues, and concerns that affect society and government. Examples of governmental mandates regarding energy-conscious design approaches will be discussed.

ARCH 620 Thesis Documentation (3)
After the student’s final thesis presentation to the school, each thesis project is assembled in the form of a book fully describing and illustrating the project research, the thesis underpinning the project, the design process and methodology, and the final design (the project synthesis). At the conclusion of the documentation, the book is presented to the school’s Thesis Library, where it becomes part of an expanding repository of research for all students.

ARCH 622 Studies in Urbanization (3)
Examines the worldwide process of urbanization and critically analyzes its impact on human beings and their institutions.

ARCH 625 Environmental Management and Policy (3)
Course topics include an examination of environmental policy and the relationship between local, state, and federal agencies. The responsibilities of industry and the role of society in decision-making regarding environmental issues are addressed.

Architecture Program (Catalog)