2017–2018 Bulletin Addendum BA in Architectural Studies

The major in Architectural Studies emphasizes skills and knowledge that are fundamental to thinking and writing about buildings and spaces, as well as to careers and graduate study in architecture, landscape architecture, historic preservation, and urban planning. The major takes advantage of Boston’s vibrant architectural scene and is especially appropriate for students considering graduate study leading to careers in the design professions.

Besides requirements in architectural history and design, students are encouraged to take as electives for the major classes of architectural content or relevance in related areas such as archaeology, anthropology, philosophy, history, sociology, engineering, and urban affairs. Opportunities exist for dual majors or major/minor combinations and are encouraged for those who wish to pursue an interdisciplinary liberal arts education. Each student works closely and regularly with his or her chosen advisor in developing a coherent and meaningful program of study suited to his or her needs and interests. In addition to the major’s eleven courses, students interested in graduate studies in architecture should take calculus (CAS MA 121 or 123) and physics (CAS PY 105), and are encouraged to take CFA TH 110 and/or COM CM 311 for public speaking and presentation skills.            

Requirements

Eleven courses are required for the major in Architectural Studies:

• CAS AH 201 Understanding Architecture (4 cr)
• CAS AH 111 Introduction to Art History I: Antiquity to the Middle Ages (4 cr)
• CAS AH 398 Twentieth-Century Architecture (4 cr)
• Three upper-level architectural history course core electives, at least one at 400 or 500 level (not 580)
• CFA AR 412 Architectural Design I or CFA AR 428 Architecture Site Design I (This requirement may be satisfied by completion of an intensive summer architectural design course from an accredited architecture school, e.g., Design Discovery at Harvard’s Graduate School of Design.)
• One of selected College of Fine Arts studio art course core electives in architectural design, drawing, installation art or other media selected in consultation with the Director of Architectural Studies
• Three electives on topics of architectural relevance chosen with your advisor

For a full list of architectural studies electives, see the art history department website or contact the director of architectural studies.