Are you looking to make a significant career shift and passionate about design and the built environment? The Master of Architecture career change program at Texas A&M University offers a unique pathway to transform your aspirations into reality. This intensive program is specifically designed for individuals like you – those holding degrees outside of architecture who are driven to pursue a career in this dynamic field.
This fast-paced, foundational program will equip you with the essential architectural thinking and design skills necessary to excel. By leveraging your diverse background and experiences, you’ll gain a fresh perspective and unique approach to the architectural discipline. Upon successful completion of this career change curriculum, you will seamlessly transition into the professional, NAAB-accredited Master of Architecture program, the final step in becoming a licensed architect.
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Discover the Master of Architecture Career Change Program
The core purpose of the career change program is to bridge the gap for talented individuals from various academic backgrounds who are eager to enter the architecture profession. Our meticulously crafted introductory curriculum delivers fundamental architectural knowledge over four semesters – including two intensive summer sessions and two regular academic semesters.
Students who demonstrate success in this rigorous program are guaranteed progression into the comprehensive Master of Architecture curriculum. This structured approach ensures you are fully prepared for advanced architectural studies and professional practice.
What You Will Learn
The curriculum is carefully designed to cover the foundational pillars of architectural education, including:
- Architectural Design: Develop your creative design thinking and problem-solving skills essential for architectural projects.
- Visual Communication: Master the techniques to effectively communicate your design ideas through drawings, renderings, and models.
- Building Materials & Construction: Gain a comprehensive understanding of materials, construction methods, and structural principles.
- Structural & Building Systems: Learn about the engineering principles behind building stability and performance.
- Environmental Control Systems: Explore sustainable design strategies and technologies for energy efficiency and occupant comfort.
- Architectural History & Theory: Develop a strong theoretical foundation and historical context for architectural design.
“Trying to approximate four years of undergrad education in one-and-a-half years of Career Change was a wild, completely exhausting test of mind and body.”
Bill Poole ’94
Poolehaus Residential Design, an Award-Winning Kansas CIty-Based Design Firm
Curriculum Breakdown: Your Path to Architectural Expertise
The Master of Architecture Career Change program is thoughtfully structured to provide a robust foundation in architecture for students transitioning from other fields. This intensive introductory curriculum is delivered over 42 credit hours, completed across a focused 5-week summer introductory course, followed by fall, spring, and summer semesters.
Successful completion of the Career Change program seamlessly leads to the Master of Architecture 2-year professional curriculum, fully accredited by NAAB (National Architectural Accrediting Board).
Semester by Semester Curriculum
Summer Semester – Introduction to Architecture (5-weeks)
- ARCH 600 – Introduction to Architecture and Urban Design (3 credit hours)
- This introductory seminar and studio immerses you in the world of architecture and urban design. You’ll engage in topical readings, stimulating in-class discussions, and concise writing exercises. The course provides hands-on opportunities to develop or refine essential skills in hand drawing, rendering techniques, and model building. Crucially, you will learn to cultivate productivity and creativity within a studio environment. Grading is satisfactory/unsatisfactory.
- Prerequisite: Graduate classification in architecture or instructor approval.
Fall Semester (15 credit hours)
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ARCH 601 – Design Fundamentals I (6 credit hours)
- An introduction to the fundamental skills necessary for architectural design. This course focuses on developing your verbal design vocabulary, graphic communication techniques, research methodologies, and critical thinking abilities. You’ll apply these skills through the design of small-scale projects and the investigation of architectural typologies and precedents.
- Prerequisites: Graduate classification in architecture or instructor approval; career change program, ARCH 600 and concurrent enrollment in ARCH 610.
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ARCH 610 – Visual Communications (3 credit hours)
- This course delves into the diverse communication techniques architects use to explore, validate, and present design decisions. You’ll learn freehand drawing principles, graphic theory, and mechanical drawing techniques. The curriculum covers architectural presentation and rendering methods across various media and their practical application.
- Prerequisite: Graduate classification or instructor approval; concurrent enrollment in ARCH 601.
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ARCH 612 – Structural and Environmental Technology Concepts (3 credit hours)
- Designed as a fast-paced introductory course, this module rapidly builds your vocabulary, visual understanding, and familiarity with the technological systems that are integral to architectural practice.
- Prerequisites: Graduate classification or instructor approval; MATH 142 and PHYS 201 or equivalents.
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ARCH 689 – Architectural Envelopes (3 credit hours)
- This course explores selected specialized topics within identified fields of architecture, allowing for in-depth study of specific areas of interest. Course topics may vary.
- Prerequisite: Graduate classification or approval of instructor or department head. Course is repeatable for credit as topics change.
Spring Semester (15 credit hours)
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ARCH 602 – Design Fundamentals II (6 credit hours)
- Building upon Design Fundamentals I, this course further develops your verbal, graphic, research, and critical thinking skills through more complex architectural design projects. Emphasis is placed on understanding major philosophical doctrines and their profound influence on architectural theory. You will study place-making principles, spatial concepts, form, and order, expanding your knowledge of world views, formal spatial manipulations, and design vocabulary.
- Prerequisites: ARCH 601, ARCH 610, ARCH 612 or instructor approval.
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ARCH 614 – Elements of Architectural Structures (3 credit hours)
- This course investigates the crucial structural factors that shape architectural space and form. You’ll be introduced to the fundamental physical principles governing statics and strength of materials through the practical design of timber and steel components used in architectural structures.
- Prerequisite: ARCH 612 or instructor approval.
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ARCH 615 – Elements of Environmental Control Systems (3 credit hours)
- Explore the theory and application of critical environmental control systems within buildings. Topics include building energy use optimization, effective envelope design, shading analysis, heating and cooling systems, lighting design, water supply plumbing and drainage, electrical systems, acoustics, fire and lightning protection, transportation systems, and construction materials. You’ll learn about design opportunities, perform relevant calculations, and understand equipment selection and component sizing in relation to design.
- Prerequisite: ARCH 612 or instructor approval.
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ARCH 689 – Contemporary Architecture (3 credit hours)
- This course provides an in-depth analysis of contemporary architectural practices. You’ll study leading architects and their significant projects, explore innovative design approaches, materials, and cutting-edge technologies. Critical engagement with current architectural theories, sustainability imperatives, and urban design trends is emphasized. The course includes comparative analysis of architectural forms and functions, and further develops your research, visual communication, and presentation skills within the context of architectural analysis.
Summer Semester (9 credit hours)
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ARCH 603 – Design Fundamentals III (6 credit hours)
- This course focuses on the theory and practice of architecture, emphasizing methods and techniques for analyzing and synthesizing concepts unique to spatial enclosure. You will develop design responses to building systems and objects within contemporary cultural, physical, and social contexts. The curriculum covers complex building programs, site development strategies, and design solutions that effectively integrate formally expressive visual ideas with functional planning.
- Prerequisite: ARCH 602.
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ARCH 689 – Architectural History (3 credit hours)
- This course provides a focused exploration of key periods and movements in architectural history, providing essential context for contemporary design practice. Course topics may vary.
Inspiring Projects from Recent Graduates
“IntraHousing: Housing for Student Teachers in Rural School Districts” imagines an architectural solution to the educational gap rural East Texas school districts face.
Katie Ridlen ’22
“Rethinking the Box” explores the idea of revitalizing a vacant grocery store using a more human- and nature-centered approach to create a residential development that promotes social interaction, diversity, environmental care, and active living.
Oscar Garza Reza ’21
“As a designer, I believe the world is colorful, and composed of images which we use in order to compose the collages of our lives. I am interested in the way architecture acts as a catalyst for vulnerable communities and how design can be used to better the lives of those who experience it, ideally identifying the role architecture plays in the collages of our lives.”
Manuel Alvarado ’20
The idea of architecture for art is the driver for this project by building off the ideologies of Donald Judd and his critiques of museums for the sake of museums.
Michael Irving ’20
This project is a Waste to Energy facility in Wilmington Waterfront, Los Angeles, which integrates municipal waste treatment facilities with outdoor green roofs, indoor exhibition hall, and indoor visitor centers.
Ziyang Li ’20
View Ziyang Li’s Final Project
Admissions: Your Journey Starts Here
Admission to our career change program is open to individuals holding a bachelor’s degree in any field who are passionate about transitioning into architecture. We seek students who demonstrate a strong capacity and genuine passion for architectural work.
A harp player who’s sensitivity influenced her building designs, a mathematician who designed amazing structures by calculating weight and balance to a very advanced level, and a psychology major who created the most beautiful equine center project he’s ever seen because she understood of how it should “feel” when people walked through it.
Marcel Erminy
More about requirements Apply
Frequently Asked Questions about Admission
What are we looking for in an applicant?
We are looking for motivated individuals with a bachelor’s degree who exhibit a strong aptitude and passion for the field of architecture. Your previous academic and professional experiences are valued, and we encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds.
How can I prepare for the program academically?
A foundational understanding of math and physics is essential for success in architecture. While specific prerequisites are minimal for admission to the career change program, strengthening your knowledge in these areas will be beneficial.
Is a portfolio required for application?
Yes, a portfolio is a crucial component of your application. It should showcase your creative abilities and demonstrate your interest in architecture. Your portfolio may include:
- Reproductions of your drawings, artwork, or other visual examples of your graphic expression skills.
- Articles, essays, or academic papers you have written on design or environmental topics.
- Illustrations or documentation from your work experience in architecture or related fields, if applicable.
How does the admission process work?
To apply, please submit your application through Texas A&M GradCas and pay the non-refundable application fee.
Your complete application must include:
- Official transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended.
- Three letters of recommendation (academic references are preferred but professional references are also acceptable).
- A comprehensive Goals Statement outlining your aspirations and motivations for pursuing architecture.
- A Résumé or Curriculum Vitae detailing your academic and professional experience.
- An Academic/Professional Portfolio showcasing your creative work.
Read more about the Master of Architecture Career Change application requirements.
What is the next step after completing the program?
Upon successful completion of the Career Change program, you will matriculate into the 2-year professional Master of Architecture program. This NAAB-accredited program prepares you for architectural licensure.
What are the admission deadlines?
Generally, you should adhere to the university application deadlines. Applicants seeking financial assistance for fall admission should submit all application materials to both the university and the department by December 15th.
What types of financial aid are available for the program?
We offer competitive merit-based recruiting scholarships to outstanding admitted students. These scholarships are awarded upon admission to the program.
Who can I contact if I have questions?
For all curricular inquiries related to the Master of Architecture program, please contact Monica Garner, Graduate Advisor.
Careers in Architecture: Expanding Horizons
The Master of Architecture program provides you with the necessary educational foundation to embark on a professional career in architecture. Graduates are well-prepared to pursue licensure after gaining required professional experience and passing the architectural registration examination.
Beyond traditional architectural practice, your Master of Architecture degree opens doors to diverse and rewarding career paths, including:
- Design & Fabrication: Engage in hands-on design and construction processes, potentially in specialized fabrication labs or design-build firms.
- Research & Development: Contribute to advancements in architectural technology, sustainable design, and building performance through research roles.
- Real-estate & Construction: Apply your architectural knowledge in real estate development, construction management, or related industries.
- Community and City Planning: Shape the future of urban environments through roles in urban planning, community development, and public sector design.
- Government and Social Work: Utilize your design skills in government agencies or non-profit organizations focused on housing, infrastructure, and community development.
- Teaching, Research, and Scholarly Pursuits: Pursue academic careers in architecture education, research institutions, or scholarly writing.
Texas A&M’s Career Change Program: Your alternative route to a Masters of Architecture degree and a fulfilling architectural career.
FAQ about the Career Change Program
How can I prepare academically for the career change program before applying?
While not strictly required for admission, applicants who wish to strengthen their application or potentially reduce the need for prerequisite coursework should strive to gain proficiency in mathematics and physics before applying.
What are the formal prerequisites for applying to the career change program?
Applicants must hold a 4-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in any field.
Math and Physics are considered foundational knowledge for architecture. While not strict prerequisites for the career change program itself, demonstrating proficiency in these areas can strengthen your application. You may be assigned preparatory coursework depending on your existing knowledge base in these subjects.
Is the program offered online or in a hybrid format?
No, our Master of Architecture programs, including the career change program, are offered exclusively in a face-to-face, on-campus format to maximize studio-based learning and collaborative experiences.
How long does the Career Change program typically take to complete?
The Career Change program is designed to be completed over the course of a 5-week introductory summer session (Summer II), followed by a full fall semester, a spring semester, and a 10-week summer semester.
It’s important to note that the Career Change program serves as a preparatory curriculum specifically designed to qualify students for the NAAB-Accredited Master of Architecture Degree program. Students who do not successfully complete the Career Change curriculum will not receive a separate credential or certificate.
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View profile of Alejandro Borges
Alejandro Borges
Associate Professor // Director of Professional Programs
View profile of Monica A. Garner
Monica A. Garner
Graduate Advisor/Senior Administrative Coordinator I
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