Are you ready to transform your passion for design into a fulfilling career in architecture? The Master of Architecture career change program at Texas A&M University offers a unique pathway for individuals from diverse backgrounds to enter the world of architecture. This intensive program is meticulously crafted to equip you with the foundational knowledge and skills to think, design, and create like an architect, leveraging your existing expertise while immersing you in the architectural discipline.
This accelerated program serves as a bridge to the professional, NAAB-accredited Master of Architecture program at Texas A&M, setting you on the path to becoming a licensed architect. It’s an ideal option for driven individuals seeking a career pivot into a dynamic and impactful field.
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About the Program: Your Fast Track to Architecture
The Texas A&M career change program is specifically designed for ambitious students holding degrees outside of architecture who are determined to pursue a career in this exciting field. Our comprehensive introductory curriculum is delivered over four semesters – including two intensive summer sessions and two regular academic semesters – providing a robust foundation in architectural principles.
Successful completion of this career change program guarantees seamless progression into the esteemed Master of Architecture curriculum at Texas A&M, propelling you closer to your architectural aspirations.
Core Areas of Study
The curriculum encompasses a wide range of essential architectural subjects, including:
- Architectural Design: Develop your design thinking and creative problem-solving skills crucial for architectural practice.
- Visual Communication: Master the art of conveying architectural ideas through various visual mediums and presentation techniques.
- Building Materials & Construction: Gain a thorough understanding of building materials, construction methods, and structural systems.
- Structural & Building Systems: Learn the principles of structural engineering and building systems to ensure the safety and functionality of architectural designs.
- Environmental Control Systems: Explore sustainable design practices and the integration of environmental control systems for energy-efficient buildings.
- Architectural History & Theory: Delve into the rich history of architecture and explore theoretical frameworks that shape contemporary 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: A Detailed Look at Your Architectural Journey
The Master of Architecture Career Change program is structured to provide a rigorous yet supportive learning environment for students transitioning into architecture. This 42-credit-hour program is strategically divided across a 5-week summer introductory course, followed by fall, spring, and summer semesters, ensuring a cohesive and comprehensive educational experience.
Upon successful completion of the Career Change program, you will advance directly into the Master of Architecture 2-year curriculum, marking the next significant step in your architectural education.
Semester-by-Semester Breakdown
Summer Semester – Intro to Architecture (5 weeks)
- ARCH 600 – Introduction to Architecture and Urban Design (3 credit hours)
- This introductory seminar and studio course lays the groundwork with topical readings, discussions, and short writing assignments. You’ll develop or refine essential skills in hand drawing, rendering, and model building, learning to thrive in a studio environment.
- Prerequisite: Graduate classification in architecture or instructor approval.
Fall Semester (15 credit hours)
- ARCH 601 – Design Fundamentals I (6 credit hours)
- Introduction to design vocabulary, graphic skills, research methodologies, and critical thinking through small-scale design projects. Typologies and precedents are investigated as foundations for architectural design.
- Prerequisites: Graduate classification or instructor approval; career change program, ARCH 600 and concurrent enrollment in ARCH 610.
- ARCH 610 – Visual Communications (3 credit hours)
- Exploration and practice of communication techniques for design exploration, verification, and presentation. Covers freehand drawing, graphic theory, mechanical drawing, architectural presentation, and rendering in various media.
- Prerequisite: Graduate classification or instructor approval; concurrent enrollment in ARCH 601.
- ARCH 612 – Structural and Environmental Technology Concepts (3 credit hours)
- A broad introductory course to develop vocabulary and visual understanding of technological systems relevant to architectural practice.
- Prerequisites: Graduate classification or instructor approval; MATH 142 and PHYS 201 or equivalents.
- ARCH 689 – Architectural Envelopes (3 credit hours)
- Selected topics in architecture. Content varies and course may be repeated for credit.
- Prerequisite: Graduate classification or instructor/department head approval.
Spring Semester (15 credit hours)
- ARCH 602 – Design Fundamentals II (6 credit hours)
- Further development of design skills through architectural projects. Emphasis on philosophical doctrines influencing architectural theory, place-making, space, form, order, world views, spatial manipulations, and design vocabulary.
- Prerequisites: ARCH 601, ARCH 610, ARCH 612 or instructor approval.
- ARCH 614 – Elements of Architectural Structures (3 credit hours)
- Investigation of structural factors shaping architectural space and form. Introduction to statics and material strength through timber and steel component design.
- Prerequisite: ARCH 612 or instructor approval.
- ARCH 615 – Elements of Environmental Control Systems (3 credit hours)
- Theory and application of building energy use, envelope design, shading, HVAC systems, lighting, plumbing, electrical, acoustics, fire protection, transportation, and materials. Focus on design opportunities, calculations, equipment selection, and component sizing.
- Prerequisite: ARCH 612 or instructor approval.
- ARCH 689 – Contemporary Architecture (3 credit hours)
- Analysis of contemporary architectural practices, leading architects, innovative design approaches, materials, technologies, current theories, sustainability, and urban design trends. Develops research, visual communication, and analytical skills.
Summer Semester (9 credit hours)
- ARCH 603 – Design Fundamentals III (6 credit hours)
- Theory and practice of architecture; methods for analyzing and synthesizing spatial enclosure concepts; developing responses to building systems; objects in cultural, physical, and social contexts; complex building programs, site development, and design solutions integrating visual ideas and functional planning.
- Prerequisite: ARCH 602.
- ARCH 689 – Architectural History (3 credit hours)
Recent Graduates’ Final Study Projects: Inspiration and Outcomes
“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
View Katie’s Final Project
“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
View Oscar’s Final Project
“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
View Manuel’s Final Project
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
View Michael’s Final Project
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’s Final Project
Admissions: Take the First Step Towards Your Architecture Future
Admission to the career change program at Texas A&M is open to individuals holding a bachelor’s degree in any field who demonstrate a strong aptitude and enthusiasm for architecture.
“A harp player whose 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
FAQ about the admission process
What do you look for in an applicant?
We seek applicants with a bachelor’s degree who exhibit a strong capacity and passion for architectural work, evident through their application materials and portfolio.
How can I prepare for the program?
A prerequisite level of knowledge in math and physics is required for the program. Reviewing foundational concepts in these areas can strengthen your application.
Is a portfolio required to apply?
Yes, a portfolio showcasing your creative abilities and/or interest in architecture is a crucial part of your application. It may include:
- Reproductions of your drawings, artwork, or other examples of graphic expression.
- Articles, essays, or papers you’ve written on design or environmental topics.
- Illustrations from your work experience in architecture or related fields, if applicable.
How does the admission process work?
Begin by submitting your application through Texas A&M GradCas along with the non-refundable application fee. Your complete application must include:
- Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.
- Three letters of recommendation (academic references are preferred).
- A comprehensive Goals Statement outlining your aspirations and motivations.
- A Résumé or Curriculum Vitae detailing your academic and professional experience.
- An Academic/professional portfolio demonstrating your creative potential.
Read more about the Master of Architecture Career Change application requirements.
What’s the next step after I complete the program?
Upon successful completion of the career change program, you will automatically transition into the 2-year Master of Architecture program, continuing your journey towards becoming a licensed architect.
What are the admissions deadlines?
Adhere to the general university application deadlines. For priority consideration for financial aid for fall admissions, ensure all application materials are submitted to both the university and the department by December 15th.
What kinds of financial aid does the program offer?
Texas A&M offers competitive recruiting scholarships to qualified students upon admission to help fund their graduate studies.
Who can I contact for questions?
For all curricular inquiries regarding the Master of Architecture program, please contact Monica Garner.
Careers: Architect and Beyond
The Master of Architecture program at Texas A&M provides graduates with the necessary educational foundation to embark on a professional career in architecture. To become a licensed architect, graduates must gain practical experience and successfully pass the architectural licensing examination after completing their degree.
Beyond traditional architectural practice, career opportunities for graduates include diverse fields such as:
- Design & Fabrication
- Research & Development
- Real Estate & Construction
- Community and City Planning
- Government and Social Work
- Teaching, Research, and Scholarly Pursuits
Texas A&M’s Career Change Program: Your alternative entry point to a Masters of Architecture degree and a world of career possibilities.
FAQ about the Career Change program
How can I prepare academically for the career change program?
Applicants seeking to enhance their admission prospects or bypass prerequisite courses should ensure a solid foundation in mathematics and physics.
What are the prerequisites for applying to the career change program?
Applicants must hold a 4-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Prerequisites for admission include proficiency in Math and Physics. Additional prerequisites may be assigned based on your proficiency in these areas.
Do you offer the program online?
No, our Master’s programs, including the career change program, are delivered in a face-to-face format to maximize studio learning and interaction.
How long will this program take to complete?
The Career Change program is completed across a 5-week summer introduction, followed by a fall semester, a spring semester, and a 10-week summer semester. It serves as a preparatory curriculum for the NAAB-Accredited Master of Architecture Degree program. Stand-alone credentials or certificates are not awarded for partial completion of the Career Change Curriculum.
Helpful Resources
Office of Information Technology
Computer Requirements
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Contact Information
Alejandro Borges
Associate Professor // Director of Professional Programs
Email Alejandro Borges
Monica A. Garner
Graduate Advisor/Senior Administrative Coordinator I
Email Monica A. Garner
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