Architectural Studies Minor

Overview for Architectural Studies Minor

This minor in architectural studies is an introduction to the field of architecture and provide students with architectural knowledge and skills to enhance their degree. The minor is broad enough to complement many fields of study since it is a blend of art, design, and technology. The list of available courses represents the various components of architecture: representation (drawing/modeling), history and theory, building systems, and design.

Notes about this minor:

  • Posting of the minor on the student's academic transcript requires a minimum GPA of 2.0 in the minor.
  • Notations may appear in the curriculum chart below outlining pre-requisites, co-requisites, and other curriculum requirements (see footnotes).

The plan code for Architectural Studies Minor is ARCHST-MN.

Curriculum for 2024-2025 for Architectural Studies Minor

Current Students: See Curriculum Requirements

Course
Required Courses
ARCH-511
Introduction to the range of architectural communication skills necessary to effectively document basic architectural form and space. The focus will be on manual skill development. Lecture 2, Studio 4 (Fall).
ARCH-541
Students will receive an overview of the various passive and active architectural and engineering systems that comprise a building project while focusing on wood frame construction. Lecture 3 (Spring).
ARCH-562
Students will study the interaction between industrial, environmental/ecological and social systems in the built environment by introduction of life cycle and systems thinking and the multiple disciplines comprising sustainability in the built environment. Methods of measuring sustainability will also be studied, including life cycle analysis. Lecture 3 (Fall).
Electives
Choose one of the following:
   ARCH-521 
This course will be cross-listed and delivered concurrently with ARCH-621 Architectural History I and will utilize the same instructor, classroom space, and resources. Lecture 3 (Fall).
   ARCH-522
This course will be cross-listed and delivered concurrently with ARCH-622 Architectural History II and will utilize the same instructor, classroom space, and resources. Lecture 3 (Spring).
Choose one of the following:
   ARCH-512
Introduction to the range of architectural communication skills necessary to effectively document basic architectural form and space. The focus will be on digital skill development. Lecture 2, Studio 4 (Spring).
   ARCH-521
This course will be cross-listed and delivered concurrently with ARCH-621 Architectural History I and will utilize the same instructor, classroom space, and resources. Lecture 3 (Fall).
   ARCH-522
This course will be cross-listed and delivered concurrently with ARCH-622 Architectural History II and will utilize the same instructor, classroom space, and resources. Lecture 3 (Spring).
   ARCH-531
Exploration of basic architectural space and form through studio design problems. Problems require understanding of elements such as spatial relationships, circulation, light, and orientation. (Prerequisites: FDTN-121 and FDTN-131 or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3, Studio 9 (Fall).
   ARCH-551
A survey of architectural theory and criticism with emphasis on contemporary architecture. Students will investigate, learn, and apply critical thinking, as well as communicate it to others. (Prerequisites: ARCH-522 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall).
   ARCH-552
This course immerses students in the field of urban and regional planning by studying and actively engaging in the planning process through projects with community agencies. Lecture 3 (Spring).