Major in Architectural Studies
The Architectural Studies major is a self-designed program housed in the Center for Interdisciplinary Studies (CIS) that takes an interdisciplinary and liberal arts approach to the study of architecture and the built environment. Students should consult with Professor Amy Finstein, Architectural Studies Co-Advisors, to develop a curriculum that meets the requirements of the major and to tailor it to their specific interests in the subject.
- 14 courses total for single majors and 10 courses total for double majors
- At least three different disciplines/departments represented
- The entire curriculum must demonstrate a progression from introductory to advanced courses
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- No seniors are allowed to apply
- If double majoring, no more than two classes can count for both majors
| Courses | Notes |
|---|---|
|
VAHI 111 History of Global VAHI 112 History of Global |
A required yearlong survey that offers global coverage of architectural monuments, introduces architectural and urban concepts, and historical questions related to the study of architecture and the built environment. |
| 2 Humanities courses | Courses that include a special focus on architecture, space, and the built environment. Students may wish to overlap with art history or intermediate architectural history courses. |
| 1 Social Science/Science/ Environmental Studies |
Students may begin to tailor their specific interests. Many sociology courses have a prerequisite, the prerequisites do not count towards their major. |
| 2 Studio/Engineering | One must be 3D fundamentals or sculpture. The other can be the Architectural Studio or an engineering course. Note: students should strongly consider taking 2D Drawing fundamentals early in their studies. |
| 2 electives | Physics, Set Design, Photography are all good options here. Students may tailor their major to their specific interests. If applying to architecture graduate school programs, another studio course is recommended. |
| 1 concentration seminar/ capstone |
Studio, Art History, or independent thesis project dependent on advisor's approval. |
After meeting with Professor Amy Finstein, Architectural Studies Co-Advisors, students should meet with CIS Director Nadine Knight to discuss their applications, and then apply to the program by completing the CIS Major Application Form.
Minor in Architectural Studies
CIS offers an Architectural Studies minor that provides an overview of the interdisciplinary approaches to the built environment and help prepare students who may be considering graduate studies in the field. Students should consult with Professor Amy Finstein, Architectural Studies Co-Advisors, to develop a curriculum that meets the requirements of the major and to tailor it to their specific interests in the subject.
- Six courses total
- At least three different disciplines/departments represented
- 3.0 GPA minimum
| Course | Course Notes |
|---|---|
|
VAHI 111 History of Global VAHI 112 History of Global |
A required yearlong introductory survey that offers global coverage of architectural monuments, introduces students to architectural and urban planning concepts, and historical questions related to the study of architecture and the built environment. One of the courses can serve as a prerequisite for the Architecture Studio. |
| 1 humanities course | A course that includes a special focus on architecture, space, and the built environment. Students may wish to overlap with art history or intermediate architectural history courses. |
| 1 Social Science/ Science/ Environmental Studies |
Students may begin to tailor their specific interests. Many relevant sociology courses have a prerequisite, but the prerequisite does not count toward the minor. |
| 1 Studio/ Engineering | 3D fundamentals |
| 1 upper-level seminar/ studio |
An advanced course based on the student's interest in architecture. The final paper/project must relate directly to architecture or the built environment. |
After meeting with Professor Amy Finstein, Architectural Studies Co-Advisors, students should meet with CIS Director Nadine Knight to discuss their applications, and then apply to the program by completing the CIS Minor Application Form.