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This degree provides students broad exposure to aspects of building and material science as well as a variety of cultural, environmental and historic perspectives, preparing them to make innovative and integrated contributions as architects and designers.

Course of Study

General Education / Foundations:

Undergraduates interested in the B.F.A. in Architecture; program / Architectural Track should:

1. Apply to the Architecture+Design Program either at the time of admission to the University or while completing entry level Art Department Foundation classes. Note that there are unique requirements if you are planning on entering the Architectural Studies program. See here for more details.

2. Complete the majority of General Education requirements during the freshman and sophomore years. Note that there are specific courses required to for the Architectural Studies track that will also fulfill University General Education requirements.

3. Complete the Art Department’s Foundation program during the freshman year or equivalent.

The Architecture+Design faculty encourages students to take many of their required General Education courses during their first two years at the university in order to receive a broad based education. Once you have formally entered the program there are specific requirements and a recommended sequence of classes, but undergraduates are still encouraged to diversify their educational experience through open electives.

Departmental Foundations courses introduce students to the fundamentals of drawing, color theory, two and three dimensional art as well as introductory design courses. The foundations curriculum exposes students to many forms of design and artistic expression, encouraging them to experiment before entering the Architectural Studies Program.

Architectural Studies:

The B.F.A. - Architecture Program / Architectural Track includes a sequence of studios and support courses that focus on architecture as both an art form and a professional path. The studios emphasize process, inventive analysis and discovery. As students work on a variety of design problems, their analytical, conceptual and practical skills are further developed so that they can respond to the complex needs of the built environment. Professional electives in engineering, physics, architectural history and urbanism support the studio courses.

After Graduation

Graduates of the undergraduate program who choose to continue their studies make excellent candidates for graduate programs in architecture schools worldwide. Those who choose to immediately enter the field of architecture or interior design will also have many opportunities open to them: our graduates are consistently hired by well-respected design firms in Boston, New York and other major cities.

UMass B.F.A. - Architecture majors who have completed their degrees may apply to the Master of Architecture with advanced standing and complete their degree in a minimum of two years. See the M.Arch. Admissions page for more details.