Purpose

The Master of Architecture program prepares future architects to transform society as Champions for Christ through academic excellence, design innovation, and mission-driven community engagement.  Students learn social responsibility, ethical practice, history and theory, creative thinking, and architectural design processes that prepare them to practice as skilled professionals, engaged citizens, and design leaders.  Within rich theological bearings, the program generates and applies relevant architectural knowledge, design practices, and performance technologies that advocate for flourishing communities and address 21^st century global challenges.     

Program Learning Outcomes

The student will be able to:

• Utilize relevant knowledge of architectural research on transformative impacts of the built environment on human health, safety, and welfare from buildings to urban regions.
• Understand professional ethics, regulatory requirements, the fundamental business processes of architecture practice as guided by our Christian worldviews, and the forces influencing change in these subjects.
• Evaluate the fundamental principles of life safety, land use, and current laws and regulations for building projects and sites in the United States.
• Assess established and emerging systems, technologies, and assemblies of building construction, and the methods and criteria architects use against the design, economics, and performance objectives of projects.
• Synthesize user requirements, regulatory requirements, site conditions, accessibility, and consideration of measurable environmental impacts of design in regard to informed design decisions within complex architectural projects.
• Integrate building envelope systems and assemblies, structural systems, environmental control systems, life safety systems, and the measurable outcomes of building performance using informed design decisions within complex architectural projects.

Delivery Format: Online Only

Traditional Architectural Roles:

• Project Architect: Lead the design and development of architectural projects from conception to completion, overseeing all phases and collaborating with clients and consultants.
• Design Architect: Focus on the creative and conceptual aspects of design, developing innovative solutions and pushing the boundaries of architectural expression.
• Architectural Researcher: Conduct research on architectural topics, such as sustainable building technologies, historic preservation, or urban design.
• Architectural Educator: Teach architecture at the university level, inspiring and mentoring the next generation of architects.

Specialized Architectural Roles:

• Sustainability Specialist: Integrate sustainable design principles into building projects, minimizing environmental impact and maximizing energy efficiency.
• Urban Designer: Contribute to the planning and design of cities and urban spaces, creating vibrant and livable communities.
• Historic Preservation Architect: Specialize in the preservation and restoration of historic buildings and sites.
• Computational Design Specialist: Utilize advanced digital tools and technologies to explore new design possibilities and optimize building performance.

Related Career Paths:

• Real Estate Development: Apply architectural knowledge to real estate projects, analyzing site potential and contributing to project feasibility studies.
• Construction Management: Oversee the construction process, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Interior Design: Focus on the design of interior spaces, creating functional and aesthetically pleasing environments.
• Urban Planning: Contribute to the development of comprehensive plans for cities and regions, addressing issues like transportation, housing, and economic development.