The School of Architecture at the University of Minnesota exposes students to the sociocultural, environmental, formal, and historical factors that shape the built environment. Students develop visual literacy by thinking through the design process in studios and workshops, by researching historical precedents, and by analyzing theoretical texts and the physical environment.

The School of Architecture fosters a sense of stewardship for the local and global built environment by providing opportunities for students to engage the College of Design research centers, enroll in service learning courses, and study abroad.

The School of Architecture offers three undergraduate architecture degrees and the professional masters in architecture (M. Arch), which is required to become a licensed architect in the state of Minnesota. The School also offers the master of science in architecture (M.S.), a research-based graduate degree.

Bachelor of science (B.S.)

• PRE-professional architecture degree (designed for further study in a professional graduate degree, typically 2-3 years in length)
• rigorous architecture design studios
• required technology courses
• traditional approach to architecture

NOTE: Students apply to to the B.S. after one year in the B.D.A. or B.A. and after completion of all admission requirements.

Bachelor of design in architecture (B.D.A.)

• non-professional degree
• explores the breadth of the architecture field
• flexible degree in design thinking through architecture
• access to design workshops
• many architectural electives

Bachelor of arts (B.A.)
(offered by the College of Liberal Arts)

• non-professional degree
• liberal arts degree with emphasis in architecture
• access to design workshops
• some architecturel electives
• requires proficiency in a second language.