Programs of Study
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) 150 units
The Bachelor of Architecture (B. Arch) program, accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), offers a path to architectural licensure accepted in all US states. The program adheres to the learning outcomes and unit requirements mandated by NAAB.
You gain critical thinking and research skills, in addition to design and technical skills, in preparation for the profession. Fundamental design, ethical awareness, and liberal arts prepare you for upper division courses in which you engage with the profession within and beyond the classroom through a rich array of field trips, firm visits, networking events, and internship opportunities.
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Master of Architecture (M. Arch Track 1) 63 units
The Master of Architecture (M.Arch) program has two NAAB-accredited tracks. If you hold an undergraduate degree in architecture or a related field, M.Arch Track 1 builds on your foundation. If you are seeking a faster path to architectural licensure, the IPAL program is available for both tracks.
Our studio-focused program connects advanced design methods with technical competence. You refine your architectural perspective, expand your design skills, and strengthen your knowledge of contemporary practice. You gain fluency in current technologies, design theory, and the craft of building.
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Master of Architecture (M. Arch Track 2) 87 units
The Master of Architecture (M.Arch) program has two NAAB-accredited tracks. If you’re entering without an architecture background, M.Arch Track 2 builds your skills from the ground up. Track 2 students will join Track 1 students after the first year. If you are seeking a faster path to architectural licensure, the IPAL program is available for both tracks.
Our studio-focused program connects advanced design methods with technical competence. You refine your architectural perspective, expand your design skills, and strengthen your knowledge of contemporary practice. You gain fluency in current technologies, design theory, and the craft of building.
Click here for more information on M.Arch Track 2.
Click here to view graduate student projects.
Click here to view graduate courses.
Integrated Path to Architectural Licensure (B.Arch IPAL & M.Arch IPAL)
B.Arch and M.Arch students seeking an expedited path to architectural licensure can opt for the IPAL pathway. The IPAL program is the shortest path to architectural licensure in the states that accept the program. Students simultaneously complete requirements for Education, Experience, and Examination by accruing work experience in architecture and taking licensing exams while taking classes. Students are supported in applying for paid internships through coursework and mentorship. In Northern California, Academy of Art University is the only Architecture School that offers the IPAL program.
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Click here for information on Amber Book. School of Architecture provides 20 of our IPAL students with free access to Amber Book test prep material.
Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Design (BA) 120 units
The Bachelor of Arts in Architecture (BA) program provides a robust foundation in architectural design with skills transferrable to related disciplines. The ability to define a problem, work through design iterations, and refine evaluative criteria are some of the transferrable skills that will prepare students for multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary design practices within and beyond architecture.
With an emphasis on building strong portfolios, students have the option to pursue graduate school or employment in architecture or related fields upon graduation. Curricular flexibility enables students to select courses that best prepares them for their individualized goals. In the State of California, the BA degree offers a modified path to architectural licensure.
This program is not NAAB-accredited but it is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Click here for more information on BA.
Master of Arts in Advanced Architectural Design (MA Track 1) 36 units
MA Track 1 is designed for students who hold an undergraduate degree in Architecture, Environmental Design, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture, Urban Design, or Engineering.
In the MA program, you can specialize in a particular area of interest. You will develop your own interest within contemporary architectural developments, design theory, and emerging technology. Through curriculum designed by faculty who are practicing architects, we will support you to become responsible leaders in your community, possessing the skills to envision, design, and construct a desirable and viable future, and therefore actively contribute towards the evolution of society and culture.
This program is not NAAB-accredited but it is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Click here for more information on MA Track 1.
Master of Arts in Advanced Architectural Design (MA Track 2) 60 units
MA Track 2 is designed for students who hold an undergraduate degree in a discipline unrelated to Architecture. Track 2 students will join Track 1 students after the first year.
In the MA program, you can specialize in a particular area of interest. You will develop your own interest within contemporary architectural developments, design theory, and emerging technology. Through curriculum designed by faculty who are practicing architects, we will support you to become responsible leaders in your community, possessing the skills to envision, design, and construct a desirable and viable future, and therefore actively contribute towards the evolution of society and culture.
This program is not NAAB-accredited but it is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Click here for more information on MA Track 2.
Associate of Applied Science in Design of Built Environments (AAS) 60 units
The Associate of Applied Science in Design of Built Environments offers an interdisciplinary approach to design and environmental stewardship in architecture or landscape architecture. Students create proposals that protect ecology, reduce environmental impacts, and benefit the community. Evidence-based iterative design processes serve as the foundation for developing proposals for built environments that address diverse needs. Emphasis is placed on clear communication from professional presentations to detailed construction documents. Guided by faculty actively practicing in architecture and landscape architecture, students acquire design and technical skills needed to enter the profession.
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Precollege Classes in Architecture
Academy of Art University’s free, scholarship-based, Pre-College Art & Design Experience (PCADE) is for every high school student who wants to take a deep dive into their own creative universe.
Curious to learn about what architects do? Interested in finding out whether you’d like to pursue it as a college degree? Find out! All supplies are provided in Architecture Pre-College classes. The program is a great way to get hands-on experience in a fun and low-stakes environment.
For students who have already made the decision to apply to college as an architecture major, our longer summer program can help you build your portfolio. Please note that the program is not for college credit.
Click here for more information on Precollege classes