Architectural Studies Minor

Program Overview

The Architectural Studies minor provides students with a comprehensive understanding of architecture and interior design principles. It explores the historical context, theory, and factors influencing the design of structures and cities, emphasizing the built environment's impact on society. Students develop a strong foundation for pursuing further studies or careers in architecture, urban planning, or related design professions. The program focuses on sustainability, professional practices, and the tailoring of electives to individual interests.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Architectural Studies minor is a program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and values of architecture and interior design.

• Functional suitability: The design must meet the intended purpose and use of the space.
• Aesthetics: The design should be visually appealing and harmonious.
• Technical performance: The design must meet structural, environmental, and safety standards.
• Economic resources and constraints: The design must be feasible within budget limitations.
• Social and cultural issues: The design should consider the needs and values of the community.
• Environmental concerns: The design should minimize environmental impact and promote sustainability.
• Human comfort: The design should prioritize the well-being and comfort of users.
The program emphasizes the role of the built environment in human culture and experience, encouraging students to develop a deeper understanding of its impact on society.

Careers:

While the Architectural Studies minor does not lead to a professional degree in architecture or interior design, it provides a strong foundation for students interested in pursuing these fields. Students who complete the minor may choose to:

• Pursue further study: Enroll in the School of Architecture and Interior Design's Master of Architecture degree program or the Bachelor of Science in Interior Design degree program.
• Explore related fields: Consider careers in urban planning, real estate development, building technology, or other design-related professions.

Other:

• The minor provides a historical overview of significant architectural works, highlighting how buildings reflect the social, cultural, political, and technological contexts of their time.
• Sustainability is a key focus, exploring its role in shaping the built environment.
• Students are introduced to the professional practices of urban design, architecture, and interior design, as well as the diverse roles design professionals play in realizing their designs.
• Students can tailor their elective courses to their interests, focusing on areas such as history, theory and criticism, urbanism, real estate development, or building technology.
• The curriculum includes courses in environmental design principles, architecture history, and sustainable building science.
• Students can choose electives from areas like urban planning, architecture theory, design thinking, and problem-solving.