School of Architecture
Master of Science in Architecture
One-Year STEM Program
More than ever, architecture needs to be understood as part of an ever-expanding set of aesthetic, social, and technical systems. The Master of Science in Architecture (MSArch) is a one-year/three-semester STEM-designated program that invites architects and non-architects to explore this expanded zone of interdisciplinary practice. Each student chooses an area of concentration that allows them to build expertise in a specific system of thought and technique.
The program is eligible for the STEM OPT Extension for F-1 visa holders.
MSArch is a STEM program. Learn more about STEM at Woodbury.
Apply Request Information Take a TourMSArch Curriculum
The Master of Science program offers four areas of concentration from which students can choose based on their interests.
Design Computation
Focuses on the integration of computational tools and methods in architectural design. Students will explore advanced digital modeling, algorithmic design, and parametric techniques to create innovative and efficient architectural solutions.
Interior Design
Centers on the design and enhancement of interior spaces. This concentration covers topics such as spatial planning, material selection, lighting design, and the psychological and cultural aspects of interior environments to create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces.
Sustainability
Emphasizes the principles and practices of sustainable architecture. Students will study energy-efficient design, renewable resources, green building certifications, and sustainable urban planning to develop environmentally responsible and resilient architectural solutions
Construction Management
Prepares students for leadership roles in the construction industry. This concentration includes coursework in project management, construction methods, cost estimation, scheduling, and building codes, equipping students with the skills to manage construction projects from conception to completion.
Recent MSArch Research Projects
Rainwater Harvesting
Alumna Stephanie Newcomb researched water commoning and rainwater harvesting to create a new method of urban water stewardship. Her project, called Coopelluvia, examined how stormwater will form an important part of Los Angeles’ future water portfolio.
Public Space & Mobility
Cyrus Dorbayan created a proposal for dynamic city centers to promote the ‘people streets’ model and pair it with innovative programming and interactive architectural events. The research aimed to enable organizations to provide beautiful, useful, and viable public spaces that will benefit their community.
Landscape Urbanism
Arturo Tovar researched the natural landscape of Los Cabos, Mexico and how it is characterized by the lack of integration with the natural landscape, as seen in the city itself. The new development integrated local program and tourism by following the existing natural context.
Infrastructure
Systematic Infiltration was a research project by Berlie Damiani that investigated the relationship between city zoning and development. The project explored zoning by site and a project anticipated impact, rather than zoning by use.
Adaptive Reuse & Transportation
Duc Le explored the condition of excess surface parking in downtown Los Angeles through the research project Animating Residual Surfaces. His work looked at adaptive reuse through the lens of infrastructure and open space.
Social Impact Design
Aja Bulla Richards created a thesis project with the Arid Lands Institute that won a Great Streets Grant from the city of Los Angeles. “Connect the Dots” uses art and design to shape policy and create inspired public spaces for a water-smart future.
Who We want
- Recent graduates of architecture programs who want to sharpen their focus prior to a professional career.
- Graduates of non-architecture programs who want to develop the architectural aspects of their work.
- Graduates who want to develop a research project with the goal of pursuing a doctoral program thereafter.
- Early- to mid-career professionals who want to develop a specific area of expertise.
How It Works
During the application process, students schedule a meeting with the program chair to identify their area of concentration and a primary advisor within that area. Once enrolled, each student collaborates closely with their advisor to define their project and conduct research. This work is supported by a series of focused courses within the chosen concentration. In their final semester, students produce a thesis project that gives concrete form to their investigation, which may take the form of a publishable article, an exhibition, or a prototype. By the end of the one-year course of study, students will have developed a personal project that will sustain and energize their future careers, whether as designers, artists, filmmakers, game developers, entrepreneurs, or scholars.
Students in the MSArch program have full access to the resources offered by Woodbury’s design, media, and business programs, including our virtual reality facilities, gallery and exhibition spaces, game design courses, and digital fabrication labs. Moreover, students are encouraged to utilize the unique conditions of Southern California as an extended network and laboratory, tapping into local archives and technical expertise from nearby industries.
Applying
You can apply to the MSArch program through the Office of Admissions.
Application Process and Materials:
- Interview with Program Chair: Please contact Dr. Arash Soleimani at [email protected] to schedule your interview.
- Research Proposal: Submit a 250-500 word research proposal in which you identify your area of concentration and potential thesis topic.
- Letters of References: Provide two letters of reference from former faculty or employers.
- Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all institutions of higher education attended.
- English Proficiency Scores: For international applicants, submit TOEFL scores (minimum score of 80) or IELTS scores (minimum score of 6.5).
- Portfolio: A portfolio that demonstrates an understanding of spatial design and the design process is highly recommended.
For more information, feel free to contact the Admissions Office or the Program Chair at the address shown below.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
All MSArch applicants are eligible for merit-based scholarships ranging from $8,000 to $20,000 annually.
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All MSArch applicants are eligible for merit-based scholarships, with awards ranging from $8,000 to $20,000 annually.
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Graduate students are eligible to receive teaching or research assistantships, based on their GPA at the time of application, with stipends ranging from $3,000 to $6,000.
STEM Designation
The MSArch program is designated as a STEM degree in Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology (CIP code 04.0902). All international students who graduate from this program are eligible to apply for a 24-month extension of their post-completion OPT (Optional Practice Training), and they can work in the USA for 36 months or three years.
Accreditation
Woodbury University is accredited by WSCUC: Senior College and University Commission.