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Overview

Our Master of Architecture program is a launching pad for those seeking leadership roles in architecture, design, development, and construction, and is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board, forging a direct pathway to licensure. Students holding a pre-professional degree in architecture may qualify for our two-year Advanced Standing program of study, while students without a background in architecture typically finish our Full Program in three years.

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Our studio-based curriculum emphasizes ethical design practice and is led by prominent architects who work with students to develop the skills they need to address pressing architectural and urban problems. Each studio offers a distinctive learning environment in which students sharpen their capacity to think critically, experiment speculatively, and make architecture ambitiously.

The city of Chicago offers a ready-made urban laboratory for all of our efforts. Moreover, our location in a global city allows us to bring together and work with expert designers, engineers, technologists, and theorists.

A minimalist architectural space featuring concrete and rust-colored walls. A person is silhouetted walking down a narrow corridor with a slatted roof, next to a small reflecting pool and an open view of trees in the background.

M.Arch. Year III
Visitor Center at Graceland Cemetery

Curriculum

Our 3-year first professional degree begins with a 2-year coordinated core curriculum and is followed by a 1-year elective-based curriculum.

The curriculum addresses principles of design concepts, materials, construction systems, planning, history and visual judgment, principles fundamental for development of the creative process. The required core coursework offers foundation knowledge, skills and vocabulary, while upper-level study seeks a broader understanding of architecture by combining theoretical exploration with practical considerations and specialized study. The program culminates in two semesters of elective Advanced Studios. Topics are chosen on an elective basis and include spatial awareness, comprehensive building design, large-scale planning, and topics in advanced technologies.

An overview of the advanced curriculum of the Master of Architecture program.
Fall	Spring
The design studio focuses on the design and structural engineering of high-volume residential buildings, or “housing.” The design of housing in cities such as Chicago is a story of bold experimentation and innovation, but also contradictions and controversy. Chicago has been at the forefront of developing new types of public and private housing and design strategies to improve and maintain public health since the city’s founding in the mid 19th century. Students are exposed to a variety of housing and hybrid buildings, and undertake research projects in select cities around the world to compare and contrast a variety of issues such as: density, dwelling unit types, mixed use programing, materiality, development models, cultural norms, and relationships between functionality and luxury. The studio is structured around three primary assignments beginning with research and drawing assignments of housing types in Chicago, followed by analyses of dense, urban housing projects in global cities, to the final design project. The studio’s principle concern is giving form, shape, and character to collectively inhabited high-rise buildings, and to the streets and public spaces that surround them. Several lectures, presentations and field trips throughout the semester highlight discernable and meaningful connections between people and places, movement and morphology, natural resources and the artificial fabric of the city. A particular focus is on place-making, environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic vitality of urban neighborhoods. The studio operates as a laboratory in which to explore new possibilities for urban living in Chicago, specifically within a selected neighborhood and project site. Prerequisites: ARCH 542 with min. grade of C	The design studio focuses on the design of urban industrial architecture. Industrial buildings house large number of workers operating complex, high-tech machinery and equipment. Industrial buildings have gradually become a vital part of the architecture of the 21th century. Thanks to the constant advancement of non-polluting micro-technologies, industrial buildings are emerging in the center of service-oriented cities around the globe. The first part of the semester focuses on understanding the typology of industrial buildings through the careful investigation of current workplace issues, historical and contemporary precedents, and an in-depth analysis and documentation of a particular site within a specific neighborhood in the city of Chicago. The second part of the studio focuses on aesthetic qualities of industrial architecture, and design issues related to: building facades and layered skins; proportioning and division of large volumes of enclosed space; harmony of structural and internal spatial elements; orderly placement of people, machinery and equipment; and, systematic arrangement of logistical operations to and from the project site. Emphasis is placed on the environmental sustainability of the building design approach and execution. Special attention is given to material/spatial efficiency, mechanical system selection and envelope design. Students are encouraged to evaluate and provide proof-of-concept data for decisions pertaining to energy use and efficiency, recycling and the reuse of natural resources. Prerequisites: ARCH 543 with min. grade of C
Introduction to geospatial mapping, data modeling, and data visualization processes for research, analytics, and generative design. Basic data structures, algorithms, and design patterns advance students ability to construct digital tools and communicate complexity. Prerequisites: ARCH 506 with min. grade of C	This course investigates the state of contemporary architecture as represented by significant practices, buildings, theories, and criticisms. Themes to be considered include globalization, the role of digital design media, the ethics and aesthetics of sustainability, contemporary urbanism, new approaches to materials and structure, and recent interests in ornament and pattern-making. Current conditions will be related historically to postwar reactions to modernism and contextually to the social and technological shifts of recent decades. With a focus on primary readings and building documentation, the course places an emphasis on the great complexity of social, political, intellectual, and technological forces affecting design. Critical reading and writing skills will be emphasized.
Selection and design of building support systems: heating, ventilating, air conditioning, water supply, sanitary and storm drainage, power distribution, lighting, communications, and vertical transportation. Systems are analyzed for their effect on building form, construction cost, and operating efficiency.	Selection and design of building support systems: heating, ventilating, air conditioning, water supply, sanitary and storm drainage, power distribution, lighting, communications, and vertical transportation. Systems are analyzed for their effect on building form, construction cost, and operating efficiency. Prerequisites: ARCH 513 with min. grade of C
(3 Credits) Architectural Technology Elective	(3 Credits) Architectural Technology Elective

An overview of the advanced curriculum of the Master of Architecture program.
Fall	Spring
Advanced Studios engage both IIT architecture faculty and a select group of visiting studio professors noted for their outstanding professional experience in contemporary practice. The focus of each studio is strong design experimentation that is implemented in highly resolved, complex architectural design projects. Studios work on sites within Chicago, explore urban areas around the globe, and/or focus on hypothetical or technological challenges that shape the built environment. Students design structural and material systems that recognize issues of ecology as well as the broader, integrated concerns of climate, energy and natural resource use, and sustainability. Uniting the diverse strands of urban place making, economic diversity, social equity and environmental stewardship, Advanced Studios promote the design of places that reflect the values of their inhabitants, and create a lasting sense of community with meaningful identity. The studios are formed in thematic clusters that complement each other or serve as dialectical opposites. Each studio explores a variety of techniques from parametric design, digital fabrication, model making, and advanced geospatial software to cultural and theoretical explorations. Students will be able to select from a variety of studio topics. The vertical studio integrates advanced B.Arch., M.Arch., M.S.Arch., and Ph.D. students. Open only to Architecture majors. Prerequisites: ARCH 544 with min. grade of C	The aim of the design studio is to develop formal solutions which address the complexities of modern metropolis and advance disciplinary knowledge at large. The Advanced Studio program provides the intellectual climate as well as material infrastructure to explore the larger forces that influence the growth of cities. In the contemporary world, developing alternative models of design are necessary to make a transformative impact on the built environment. Design work in Advanced Studios at IIT directly engages real-life challenges and design-based solutions. As they seek to synthesize and impart principles and knowledge, to advance aesthetic and analytical skills, and to creatively expand upon given cultural norms, the Advanced Studios offer students the means to leverage their intuitions and insights to find better ways to enhance the built environment. The studios are formed in thematic clusters that complement each other or serve as dialectical opposites. Each studio explores a variety of techniques from parametric design, digital fabrication, model making, and advanced geospatial software to cultural and theoretical explorations. The vertical studio integrates advanced B.Arch., M.Arch., M.S.Arch., and Ph.D. students. Open only to Architecture majors. Prerequisites: ARCH 545 with min. grade of C
(3 Credits) Architectural History/Theory/Culture Elective	(3 Credits) Architectural History/Theory/Culture Elective
(3 Credits) Architectural History/Theory/Culture Elective	(3 Credits) Architectural Practice Elective
(3 Credits) Architecture Elective	(3 Credits) Architecture Elective

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A diverse group of people engaged in a discussion, seated in a circle in a modern, open space. A man holds a camera, capturing the event. Bookshelves and glass walls are visible in the background, suggesting a library or community center setting.

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Faculty

Our M.Arch. faculty stress research, analysis, and synthesis as preparation for an expanding disciplinary field in which resourcefulness and daring are rewarded. The faculty comprises award-winning architects, engineers, and scholars that are committed to helping our graduates become exceptional design leaders as well as ethical global citizens.

Wiel Arets

Professor

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James Baird

Adjunct Professor

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Catherine Baker

Adjunct Professor

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Lee Bey

Adjunct Professor

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David Brininstool

Adjunct Professor

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Thomas Brock

Associate Teaching Professor, Second Year M.Arch. Studio Coordinator, NCARB Licensing Advisor

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Rogelio Cadena

Jeanne & John Rowe Fellow, Visiting Assistant Professor

Brick Cassidy

Adjunct Professor, Fabrication Center Manager

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Susan Conger-Austin

Professor of Practice, MCHAP International Programs Director

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Edoarda Corradi

Associate Teaching Professor, IPRO Director

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Dirk Denison

Professor, MCHAP Director

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Scott Duncan

Adjunct Professor

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Mahjoub Elnimeiri

Professor

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Paul Endres

Professor of Practice

Martin Felsen

Professor, Associate Dean of Graduate Programs, M.Arch. Degree Program Director

Frank Flury

Associate Professor, B.Arch. Degree Program Director

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Chris Groesbeck

Adjunct Professor

Charles Haller

Adjunct Professor

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Kevin Harrington

Adjunct Professor

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Ron Henderson

Professor, Second Year M.LA+U Studio Coordinator

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Jordan Hicks

Adjunct Professor

Colleen Humer

Associate Teaching Professor, First Year UG Studio Coordinator, International Studies Director

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Youngjin Hwang

Assistant Professor

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Leslie Johnson

Associate Teaching Professor, First Year M.Arch. Studio Coordinator

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Kristin Jones

Adjunct Professor

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Sean Keller

Associate Professor, Associate Dean for Strategic Initiatives

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Stephen Kibler

Professor of Practice

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Yohan Kim

Visiting Assistant Professor, M.TBVU Degree Program Associate Director

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John Kriegshauser

Adjunct Professor

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Eva Kultermann

Associate Professor

Brian Lee

Adjunct Professor

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John Manfredy

Adjunct Professor

Andrew Metter

Adjunct Professor

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Jonathan Miller

Associate Teaching Professor

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Vedran Mimica

Professor, M.S.Arch. Degree Program Director

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Nilay Mistry

Associate Teaching Professor, First Year M.LA+U Studio Coordinator

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Hashika Nekkanti

Adjunct Professor, Enrollment Specialist

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Jennifer Park

Associate Teaching Professor

Bryant Pitak

Adjunct Professor

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Joel Putnam

Adjunct Professor

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Vladimir Radutny

Adjunct Professor

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Ryan Roark

Assistant Professor, Second Year UG Studio Coordinator

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Donna Robertson

Professor

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John Ronan

Professor

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Michelangelo Sabatino

Professor, Ph.D. Degree Program Director

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Patricia Saldaña Natke

Adjunct Professor

Andy Tinucci

Associate Teaching Professor, Fourth Year UG Studio Coordinator

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Maria Villalobos Hernandez

Associate Professor, M.LA+U Degree Program Director, Advanced M.LA+U Studio Coordinator

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Catherine Wetzel

Associate Professor, Third Year UG Studio Coordinator

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Dr. Antony Wood RIBA, Ph.D.

Professor of Practice, M.TBVU Degree Program Director

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Sasha Zanko

Adjunct Professor, MCHAP Program Coordinator

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Studios

Year One: Elements & Architecture in the City

The first year, first semester of the three-year graduate program focuses on the tools, techniques, methods, and methodologies of architectural design. The studio investigates the articulation of space, tectonic assembly, and human behavior as critical foundations of the making of the built environment. The studio focuses on developing core drawing, making, thinking, and communication skills via a series of discrete projects that aggregate into a comprehensive body of work.

The first year, second semester of the three-year graduate program focuses on the development of the fundamental aspects of form, space, structure, and materiality explored through the design of a small neighborhood building. The design-based investigation focuses on the study of spatial organization, public space, user experiences, and basic tectonic principles, and examines the arrangement and relations between the parts and elements of the urban environment.

A modern art installation featuring a geometrically arranged structure of intersecting wooden sticks casting intricate shadows. A translucent yellow element is incorporated in the design. The image is set against a light background.

M.Arch. Architecture Studio 1: Elements
Johnson, Ying Chang

A collage of architectural models and sketches. The main image shows a transparent structure with a grid-like design. Smaller images display different angles and details, including wooden frameworks and colored elements.

M.Arch. Architecture Studio 1: Elements
Johnson, Ying Chang

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Electives

A wide variety of electives are available for M.Arch. students, not only in the College of Architecture, but also in the university’s Armour College of Engineering, Institute of Design, and Stuart School of Business. Full program students are required to take one Materials Elective and 15 credits of architectural electives. Advanced standing students are required to take 6 credits of technology electives, 9 credits of history/theory electives, 3 credits of practice electives in addition to six credits of architectural electives.

A overview of the elective courses for the Master of Architecture program and the semester in which they are typically offered.
Fall	Spring
A laboratory and experimental-based class investigation of anisotropic fibrous materials as a building component viewed through historical timber design precedents. Topics include low and high-rise framed construction, cross-laminated timber, CNC fabrication methods composite construction, tensile systems, and wood and paper-based products. Structural analysis will explore material properties and connections of a directionally grained and fibrous medium. Prerequisites: (ARCH 230 and ARCH 334 and ARCH 335) or (ARCH 485 and ARCH 486)	An exploration of historical and current technology through the work of artists, architects, craftsmen, and engineers in a brittle medium. Topics include wall systems, connections, structural design of all glass structures, and material properties. Sealants, coatings, adhesives, and impact and blast resistant interlayers will also be covered. A lab component will encourage experimentation of columns, beams, and surfaces from glass components. Prerequisites: (ARCH 230 and ARCH 334 and ARCH 335) or (ARCH 485 and ARCH 486)
A comprehensive investigation of building design viewed through the mechanics of elemental forces. The focus of the class will be the understanding and reduction of complex building concepts into understandable components of the detail, the element, and the system. Topics include lateral resisting components, diaphragms, moment frames, shear walls, and braced frames in historical and current precedents. Prerequisites: (ARCH 230 and ARCH 334 and ARCH 335) or ARCH 485	Basic understanding of the system involves forces, vectors, equilibrium, statics, supports with free body diagrams, material properties, stress, strain, and deformation (force or temperature). Simple structural systems will be analyzed using simple statics and free body diagrams. The latter part of the course will concentrate on structural typologies. Load paths will be analyzed for several different types, construction materials, and structural systems. Principles of deflection will be presented along with vertical and lateral displacement issues.
	The course starts by giving an overview of the state of the art of tall buildings and, in particular, super tall buildings. The developments of structural systems to resist lateral and gravity loads through the years will be explained. Many examples of tall buildings will be given showing the application of such systems. The students will be introduced to structural load design criteria, and they will be taught how to schematically design a tall building. Guest lectures from the practice will participate in the teaching. The course will also make the connection between architecture, structure, and construction. The course will draw from the city of Chicago experience. Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of structures
This research seminar examines advances in the technologies that affect the practice of architecture. The course examines leading technologies, processes, and applications, and their role in building design and production. The course will navigate the broad and varied materials related to advanced technologies in architecture by focusing on specific applications for specific projects. Students may select between varying and diverse topics offered by the faculty that may include building envelopes, architectural materials, building and environmental systems, advanced structural design, energy and sustainability, architectural acoustics and lighting, fabrication, and computer-aided design technologies. Prerequisites: ARCH 215 and ARCH 230 and ARCH 404 and ARCH 335 and ARCH 403 and ARCH 334	This research seminar examines advances in the technologies that affect the practice of architecture. The course examines leading technologies, processes, and applications, and their role in building design and production. The course will navigate the broad and varied materials related to advanced technologies in architecture by focusing on specific applications for specific projects. Students may select between varying and diverse topics offered by the faculty that may include building envelopes, architectural materials, building and environmental systems, advanced structural design, energy and sustainability, architectural acoustics and lighting, fabrication, and computer-aided design technologies. Prerequisites: ARCH 215 and ARCH 230 and ARCH 404 and ARCH 335 and ARCH 403 and ARCH 334
This research seminar examines advances in the technologies that affect the practice of architecture. The course examines leading technologies, processes, and applications, and their role in building design and production. The course will navigate the broad and varied materials related to advanced technologies in architecture by focusing on specific applications for specific projects. Students may select between varying and diverse topics offered by the faculty that may include building envelopes, architectural materials, building and environmental systems, advanced structural design, energy and sustainability, architectural acoustics and lighting, fabrication, and computer-aided design technologies. Prerequisites: ARCH 215 and ARCH 230 and ARCH 404 and ARCH 335 and ARCH 403 and ARCH 334	This research seminar examines advances in the technologies that affect the practice of architecture. The course examines leading technologies, processes, and applications, and their role in building design and production. The course will navigate the broad and varied materials related to advanced technologies in architecture by focusing on specific applications for specific projects. Students may select between varying and diverse topics offered by the faculty that may include building envelopes, architectural materials, building and environmental systems, advanced structural design, energy and sustainability, architectural acoustics and lighting, fabrication, and computer-aided design technologies. Prerequisites: ARCH 215 and ARCH 230 and ARCH 404 and ARCH 335 and ARCH 403 and ARCH 334
Talking TALL I will fully examine the physical, environmental, and social sustainability implications of tall buildings at human, architectural, and urban scales in order to offer students extensive and in-depth knowledge and resources to investigate tall buildings and future cities. The aspects of TALL buildings covered in this course include their design principles, technologies, appropriateness to context, energy consumption, life-cycle considerations, natural ventilation, vertical greenery, facades, new typologies, and more. The aspects of TALL cities covered include an analysis of vertical urbanism vs. suburban sprawl, transportation and infrastructure implications, quality of life for residents in tall urban environments, etc.,—all ultimately with a view to a discourse on what should constitute a holistic vision of "sustainable vertical urbanism."	Talking TALL II will fully examine the physical, environmental, and social sustainability implications of tall buildings at human, architectural, and urban scales in order to offer students extensive and in-depth knowledge and resources to investigate tall buildings and future cities. The aspects of TALL buildings covered in this course include their design principles, technologies, appropriateness to context, energy consumption, life-cycle considerations, natural ventilation, vertical greenery, facades, new typologies, and more. The aspects of TALL cities covered include an analysis of vertical urbanism vs. suburban sprawl, transportation and infrastructure implications, quality of life for residents in tall urban environments, etc.,—all ultimately with a view to a discourse on what should constitute a holistic vision of "sustainable vertical urbanism." While Talking TALL I focuses mostly at the urban scale, Talking TALL II focuses more on the detailed building/technological scale. Prerequisites: ARCH 570
This course aims to provide students with an understanding of the technologies that enable tall buildings and dense future cities, especially cutting-edge current and emerging technologies. The technologies examined will embrace both the building and urban (infrastructure) scales. Sub-topics include: Building Automation Control Systems; Building Maintenance; Construction; Energy Conservation and Generation, Environmental Engineering; Environmental Protection; Façade Engineering & Systems; Fire & Life Safety Engineering; Geo-technical/Foundations; MEP Engineering; Project and Property Management; Security; Seismic Engineering; Structural Engineering; Transportation; Urban Infrastructure; Vertical Transportation; Wind Engineering.	This course aims to provide students with an understanding of the technologies that enable tall buildings and dense future cities, especially cutting-edge current and emerging technologies. The course continues the investigation initiated in ARCH 572: Tall Building Technologies I. The technologies examined will embrace both the building and urban (infrastructure) scales. Sub-topics include: Building Automation Control Systems; Building Maintenance; Construction; Energy Conservation and Generation, Environmental Engineering; Environmental Protection; Façade Engineering & Systems; Fire & Life Safety Engineering; Geo-technical/Foundations; MEP Engineering; Project Management; Property Management; Security; Seismic Engineering; Structural Engineering; Transportation; Urban Infrastructure; Vertical Transportation; Wind Engineering. Prerequisites: ARCH 572 with min. grade of C

A overview of the elective courses for the Master of Architecture program and the semester in which they are typically offered.
Fall	Spring
This significant Midwestern style of architectural and landscape design evolved from social reform and nationalist tendencies but also from the beginnings of ecology and modern design. This course focuses on the work of Prairie School architects and landscape architects such as Frank Lloyd Wright, Walter Burley Griffin, Jens Jensen, and IIT's Alfred Caldwell. Field trips explore the evolution of 19th century Romantic Styles into Prairie School designs, ending with 20th century modernism and organic architecture. The collaboration between planners, architects, landscape architects, and craftspeople will be explored throughout the course.	Survey of the history of landscape design throughout the world, including contemporary projects. The course emphasizes both analytical and holistic approaches to the study of historic designs, highlights the relationship between architecture and landscape, and stresses major concepts that directly influence present day designs. One field trip.
This class is devoted to the close observation, description, and analysis of works of architecture from 1900 to the present. We will read exemplary texts of architectural criticism and history. Conducted as a seminar, this course studies writings and buildings through research papers, presentations, and other projects.	This class is devoted to the close observation, description, and analysis of works of architecture from 1900 to the present. We will read exemplary texts of architectural criticism and history. Conducted as a seminar, this course studies writings and buildings through research papers, presentations, and other projects.
This seminar surveys the interaction between media and the city from the 19th century to the present. Any consideration of contemporary urban issues must take into account the roles that media and information technologies play in our lives. Every space we encounter or create has to be considered mediated. Course work will include assigned readings, assigned screenings, and creative design problems related to the issues considered in class.	This seminar surveys the interaction between media and the city from the 19th century to the present. Any consideration of contemporary urban issues must take into account the roles that media and information technologies play in our lives. Every space we encounter or create has to be considered mediated. Course work will include assigned readings, assigned screenings, and creative design problems related to the issues considered in class.
This seminar employs comparative studies of other arts, in particular cinema, to illuminate architectural aesthetics and the creative process. It has a dual focus: it undertakes an introduction to film studies through the analysis of films and readings in film theory and aesthetics; at the same time, it will consider architectural concepts and artifacts. The aim is not primarily to study cinema nor to make a definitive conclusion about the congruence or divergence of architecture and cinema. The course intends to cultivate a way of seeing: to illuminate the relations between media, technology, geography, architecture, and ideology. Prerequisites: ARCH 108 or ARCH 508 with min. grade of C	This seminar employs comparative studies of other arts, in particular cinema, to illuminate architectural aesthetics and the creative process. It has a dual focus: it undertakes an introduction to film studies through the analysis of films and readings in film theory and aesthetics; at the same time, it will consider architectural concepts and artifacts. The aim is not primarily to study cinema nor to make a definitive conclusion about the congruence or divergence of architecture and cinema. The course intends to cultivate a way of seeing: to illuminate the relations between media, technology, geography, architecture, and ideology. Prerequisites: ARCH 108 or ARCH 508 with min. grade of C
Intended to build on the knowledge and abilities gained in the foundational architectural history and theory courses, these seminar courses focus on topics in history, theory, and criticism. Students select from varying and diverse topics such as urbanism, sustainability, design methodology, aesthetics, ethics and law, history of technology, and architecture in relation to other arts. Critical reading and writing skills are emphasized. Prerequisites: (AAH 119 and AAH 120) or ARCH 501	Intended to build on the knowledge and abilities gained in the foundational architectural history and theory courses, these seminar courses focus on topics in history, theory, and criticism. Students select from varying and diverse topics such as urbanism, sustainability, design methodology, aesthetics, ethics and law, history of technology, and architecture in relation to other arts. Critical reading and writing skills are emphasized. Prerequisites: (AAH 119 and AAH 120) or ARCH 501
During the last one hundred years a number of cultural, economic, and social changes have moved architectural discourse and practice into a global network. This survey course focuses on the rise of new educational, financial, geo-political, professional, and technological scenarios that transformed architecture and urbanism from the end of World War One to the present. Canonical buildings and sites are discussed within the context of global modernism.	Intended to build on the knowledge and abilities gained in the foundational architectural history and theory courses. This seminar focuses on advanced topics in history, theory, and criticism. Students select from varying and diverse topics such as urbanism, sustainability, design methodology, aesthetics, ethics and law, history of technology, and architecture in relation to other arts. Seminar may also offer intense focus on particular architects, periods, regions, or movements. Critical reading and writing skills will be emphasized. In addition, the advanced seminar will teach research skills, will expect the students to formulate and pursue original research topics, and will expect oral presentations of these projects. These abilities will be evaluated through in-class presentations and research papers.
Intended to build on the knowledge and abilities gained in the foundational architectural history and theory courses. This seminar focuses on advanced topics in history, theory, and criticism. Students select from varying and diverse topics such as urbanism, sustainability, design methodology, aesthetics, ethics and law, history of technology, and architecture in relation to other arts. Seminar may also offer intense focus on particular architects, periods, regions, or movements. Critical reading and writing skills will be emphasized. In addition, the advanced seminar will teach research skills, will expect the students to formulate and pursue original research topics, and will expect oral presentations of these projects. These abilities will be evaluated through in-class presentations and research papers.	Intended to build on the knowledge and abilities gained in the foundational architectural history and theory courses. This seminar focuses on advanced topics in history, theory, and criticism. Students select from varying and diverse topics such as urbanism, sustainability, design methodology, aesthetics, ethics and law, history of technology, and architecture in relation to other arts. Seminar may also offer intense focus on particular architects, periods, regions, or movements. Critical reading and writing skills will be emphasized. In addition, the advanced seminar will teach research skills, will expect the students to formulate and pursue original research topics, and will expect oral presentations of these projects. These abilities will be evaluated through in-class presentations and research papers.
Intended to build on the knowledge and abilities gained in the foundational architectural history and theory courses. This seminar focuses on advanced topics in history, theory, and criticism. Students select from varying and diverse topics such as urbanism, sustainability, design methodology, aesthetics, ethics and law, history of technology, and architecture in relation to other arts. Seminar may also offer intense focus on particular architects, periods, regions, or movements. Critical reading and writing skills will be emphasized. In addition, the advanced seminar will teach research skills, will expect the students to formulate and pursue original research topics, and will expect oral presentations of these projects. These abilities will be evaluated through in-class presentations and research papers.

A overview of the elective courses for the Master of Architecture program and the semester in which they are typically offered.
Fall	Spring
Architecture has always been a complex interdisciplinary business, where the management of allied professions and industry affiliates is critical to the success of any endeavor of significant scale. The introduction of BIM (Building Information Modeling) is an advance in project delivery tools which should be viewed as a multi-dimensional expansion of the mechanisms of management and accommodation of an ever-broadening range of participants in the organization of a project, allowing the development of a new delivery protocol, IBPD (Integrated Building Project Delivery). BIM is currently recognized as consolidating the basis for a range of functions including drawing, modeling, document management, clash detection, interdisciplinary coordination, estimating, scheduling, constructability review, production modularization, fabrication protocols, and for the analysis of myriad physical and proscriptive demands such as energy consumption, daylighting, code compliance, egress, circulation, and operation scenarios. The breadth of information embedded in a BIM model will require the emergence of facilitating professionals to an extent previously unknown in the practice and the industry. This course explores the state of the profession and the anticipated ramifications.	Architecture has always been a complex interdisciplinary business, where the management of allied professions and industry affiliates is critical to the success of any endeavor of significant scale. The introduction of BIM (Building Information Modeling) is an advance in project delivery tools which should be viewed as a multi-dimensional expansion of the mechanisms of management and accommodation of an ever-broadening range of participants in the organization of a project, allowing the development of a new delivery protocol, IBPD (Integrated Building Project Delivery). BIM is currently recognized as consolidating the basis for a range of functions including drawing, modeling, document management, clash detection, interdisciplinary coordination, estimating, scheduling, constructability review, production modularization, fabrication protocols, and for the analysis of myriad physical and proscriptive demands such as energy consumption, daylighting, code compliance, egress, circulation, and operation scenarios. The breadth of information embedded in a BIM model will require the emergence of facilitating professionals to an extent previously unknown in the practice and the industry. This course explores the state of the profession and the anticipated ramifications.
The course teaches future architects the practical aspects of entrepreneurial small business management, to develop a comprehensive opportunity assessment and to develop the skills necessary to improve the odds of success. The course will consider strategies to leverage limited resources for maximum effect. The course will also cover small organization and group behavior, performance, leadership, and motivation in small business settings and will focus on the owner/manager as the principal success factor in the context of a small organization. Emphasis is placed on the circumstances and opportunities of the professional practice of architecture: practice as profession, process, organization, business, and evolving models of practice are covered. The course also provides a series of concepts, frameworks, and heuristics that enable the entrepreneur to anticipate and deal with the challenges that accompany growth of an existing business. Cases, exercises, lectures, and speakers are used to focus on choosing opportunities, allocating resources, motivating employees, and maintaining control while not stifling innovation. A key component of the course is how to sustain entrepreneurial thinking in mid-sized ventures as they continue to grow.	The course teaches future architects the practical aspects of entrepreneurial small business management, to develop a comprehensive opportunity assessment and to develop the skills necessary to improve the odds of success. The course will consider strategies to leverage limited resources for maximum effect. The course will also cover small organization and group behavior, performance, leadership, and motivation in small business settings and will focus on the owner/manager as the principal success factor in the context of a small organization. Emphasis is placed on the circumstances and opportunities of the professional practice of architecture: practice as profession, process, organization, business, and evolving models of practice are covered. The course also provides a series of concepts, frameworks, and heuristics that enable the entrepreneur to anticipate and deal with the challenges that accompany growth of an existing business. Cases, exercises, lectures, and speakers are used to focus on choosing opportunities, allocating resources, motivating employees, and maintaining control while not stifling innovation. A key component of the course is how to sustain entrepreneurial thinking in mid-sized ventures as they continue to grow.
Since the introduction of basic zoning laws to the numbers and complexity of ordinances attached to any land parcel have proliferated to include those addressing land use, development, density, environmental concerns both on and off site, aesthetic mandates, energy use, quality of life concerns, and infrastructure development, the growing understanding that comprehensive and integrated systems must be managed across property lines to effect sustainable planning and communities will accelerate the number of prescriptive and policy ordinances enforced at the development of a parcel. Many agencies have further created extra-legal linkages between approvals for land development and the provision of social and ideological benefits to the community. The impact on the profession of architecture of the panoply of planning options and governmental goals is the result that the navigation of the system of mandated design determinates is one of the initial and potentially most creative acts in the process of project delivery. Project designers must understand the ramifications and trade-offs inherent in the system, especially in any attempt to achieve the best use of any parcel of land and position the most appropriate built environment.	Since the introduction of basic zoning laws to the numbers and complexity of ordinances attached to any land parcel have proliferated to include those addressing land use, development, density, environmental concerns both on and off site, aesthetic mandates, energy use, quality of life concerns, and infrastructure development, the growing understanding that comprehensive and integrated systems must be managed across property lines to effect sustainable planning and communities will accelerate the number of prescriptive and policy ordinances enforced at the development of a parcel. Many agencies have further created extra-legal linkages between approvals for land development and the provision of social and ideological benefits to the community. The impact on the profession of architecture of the panoply of planning options and governmental goals is the result that the navigation of the system of mandated design determinates is one of the initial and potentially most creative acts in the process of project delivery. Project designers must understand the ramifications and trade-offs inherent in the system, especially in any attempt to achieve the best use of any parcel of land and position the most appropriate built environment.
The Art of the Deal, with the emphasis on Art, is a term best positioning the financial structuring behind any project. The ability of the project team leader in integrated practice to understand and appreciate the motivations and opportunities inherent in the initiation of the project will be essential in guiding team decisions and maintaining a leadership position. The understanding of the financial underpinnings of a project is of paramount importance to those intending to actually engage the process of initiating and effecting a construction activity. The sources, costs, and sequence of funding, budgeting, cash flow, incentives options, and tax ramifications regarding a project are to be addressed as component knowledge to an understanding of integrated project management.	The Art of the Deal, with the emphasis on Art, is a term best positioning the financial structuring behind any project. The ability of the project team leader in integrated practice to understand and appreciate the motivations and opportunities inherent in the initiation of the project will be essential in guiding team decisions and maintaining a leadership position. The understanding of the financial underpinnings of a project is of paramount importance to those intending to actually engage the process of initiating and effecting a construction activity. The sources, costs, and sequence of funding, budgeting, cash flow, incentives options, and tax ramifications regarding a project are to be addressed as component knowledge to an understanding of integrated project management.
Two options are available to the student for the acquisition and assimilation of the breadth of knowledge required to bring project ideas to fruition. The Comprehensive Development Project is a capstone effort which will demonstrate project concept, planning resolution, land acquisition strategies, estimating, scheduling, financial pro-forma, and value capture intents. The practicum would entail employment at a vetted office engaged in the actual process of project assembly. A position requiring a minimum of 20 hours per week, prior review and approval of the work plan, and submittal of documentation of the work undertaken would be required for this scenario. The ultimate objective is to provide a roadmap of the interaction between the architect-entrepreneur, market opportunities, and integrated building delivery practices which facilitate the development of student skills necessary to compete in a rapidly changing socio-economic environment. This course is designed to help students learn and use tools and frameworks to create, implement, and update a strategic plan to shape the future and guide an entrepreneurial organization on its path to success. This course will entail collaboration with real world organizations including city agencies, community development corporations, IIT Department of Community Affairs, or private developers.	Two options are available to the student for the acquisition and assimilation of the breadth of knowledge required to bring project ideas to fruition. The Comprehensive Development Project is a capstone effort which will demonstrate project concept, planning resolution, land acquisition strategies, estimating, scheduling, financial pro-forma, and value capture intents. The practicum would entail employment at a vetted office engaged in the actual process of project assembly. A position requiring a minimum of 20 hours per week, prior review and approval of the work plan, and submittal of documentation of the work undertaken would be required for this scenario. The ultimate objective is to provide a roadmap of the interaction between the architect-entrepreneur, market opportunities, and integrated building delivery practices which facilitate the development of student skills necessary to compete in a rapidly changing socio-economic environment. This course is designed to help students learn and use tools and frameworks to create, implement, and update a strategic plan to shape the future and guide an entrepreneurial organization on its path to success. This course will entail collaboration with real world organizations including city agencies, community development corporations, IIT Department of Community Affairs, or private developers.
The organization of deliverables from the multiple participants in a project plan, including estimating, quality control, value engineering, scheduling of work, conflict resolution, pay schedules, and project close-out and commissioning are essential to managing a building project. Many of these areas of endeavor are those most directly impacted by the developments addressed in Integrated Building Delivery Practice. This course will solidify the underpinnings and will amplify, where needed, the requisite understanding in these areas of the practice. The development of managerial skills requisite to the practice of this coordination and the basis of developing inter-professional relationships will be stressed throughout the incorporation of the technical methodologies.	The organization of deliverables from the multiple participants in a project plan, including estimating, quality control, value engineering, scheduling of work, conflict resolution, pay schedules, and project close-out and commissioning are essential to managing a building project. Many of these areas of endeavor are those most directly impacted by the developments addressed in Integrated Building Delivery Practice. This course will solidify the underpinnings and will amplify, where needed, the requisite understanding in these areas of the practice. The development of managerial skills requisite to the practice of this coordination and the basis of developing inter-professional relationships will be stressed throughout the incorporation of the technical methodologies.

A overview of the elective courses for the Master of Architecture program and the semester in which they are typically offered.
Fall	Spring
This topics course will introduce students to the use of traditional furniture building techniques including the use of hand and power tools. Students will investigate furniture built of solid wood, composite wood, plastics, and metals and learn to build furniture with a limited number of basic tools and on a budget. A series of exercises will train students to do the physical connection; a series of lectures and presentations will show production and finishing techniques.	This course will be about the design of chairs, or more broadly body support devices, and the focus will be on ergonomics, structure, materials, and manufacturing issues. If a house can be considered a “machine for living,” this will be about machines for the support of the body. The course will conclude with each student building a prototype chair of his or her own design.

These courses offer knowledge and skills related to design-build in a variety of areas. Students may select between varying and diverse topics offered by the faculty including advanced construction and material technologies, building envelope systems, advanced structural design, energy and sustainability, architectural acoustics and lighting, fabrication, and computer-aided design technologies.	These courses offer knowledge and skills related to design-build in a variety of areas. Students may select between varying and diverse topics offered by the faculty including advanced construction and material technologies, building envelope systems, advanced structural design, energy and sustainability, architectural acoustics and lighting, fabrication, and computer-aided design technologies.

A overview of the elective courses for the Master of Architecture program and the semester in which they are typically offered.
Fall	Spring
Collage, the act of bringing together disparate materials and imagery, has the opportunity to explore unknowns, exploit the peculiar, and reveal the uncanny. Collage operates within a contemporary context of mass-production, mass media, and mass consumption. Mash ups, cut ups, power mixing, and sampling are artistic methods of repurposing products made by others. Collage Making explores the iterative process of collection, selection, arrangement and execution. Collages produced will examine architecture in contemporary culture. Prerequisites: ARCH 107 or ARCH 506 with min. grade of C	Utilizing site visits, lectures, presentations, and critiques, students will learn freehand sketching, perspective, and conceptual sketching to convey building spatial ideas. Conceptual and schematic analysis of site visits will teach students to represent existing spaces, environments, and buildings as well as various building materials. Students will rely on four media to quicken their drawing skills and visual analysis—pencil, ink, pastel, and water color.
Utilizing site visits, lectures, presentations, and critiques, students will learn freehand sketching, perspective, and conceptual sketching to convey building spatial ideas. Conceptual and schematic analysis of site visits will teach students to represent existing spaces, environments, and buildings as well as various building materials. Students will rely on four media to quicken their drawing skills and visual analysis—pencil, ink, pastel, and water color.	Equips students with a suite of photographic skills and strategies tailored to their work as architects. Cultivates a discursive practice by developing foundational technical competencies, building awareness of key precedents, and honing a critical perspective for reading photographic images. Topics covered include camera operation, composing, staging, lighting, post-processing, printing, editing, curating, and publishing. Field and studio assignments, case study research work, and conversations with practicing photographers.
Digital technologies have altered the field of architecture significantly in recent years, resulting in an increased demand for specialists in the profession. Building on the knowledge and skills gained in the introductory design communications courses, these advanced electives focus on topics in digital technology and computational design. Students select from varied topics including design visualization, advanced modeling, building information systems (BIM/Revit), building performance simulation and digital fabrication among others. Prerequisites: ARCH 108 or ARCH 508	Digital technologies have altered the field of architecture significantly in recent years, resulting in an increased demand for specialists in the profession. Building on the knowledge and skills gained in the introductory design communications courses, these advanced electives focus on topics in digital technology and computational design. Students select from varied topics including design visualization, advanced modeling, building information systems (BIM/Revit), building performance simulation and digital fabrication among others. Prerequisites: ARCH 108 or ARCH 508
As architectural communication continues to include more territory and components of a project, it is important for designers to be knowledgeable about the various ways in which to communicate visually. Elective courses in the visual studies topics focus on visual representation techniques and processes, and visual perception and aesthetic judgment applied to architecture. Students select from varying and diverse topics such as visual training, collage making, freehand drawing and digital photography among others.	As architectural communication continues to include more territory and components of a project, it is important for designers to be knowledgeable about the various ways in which to communicate visually. Elective courses in the visual studies topics focus on visual representation techniques and processes, and visual perception and aesthetic judgment applied to architecture. Students select from varying and diverse topics such as visual training, collage making, freehand drawing and digital photography among others.

Advising

Advising provides students with academic guidance as they fulfill their degree program requirements. All degree seeking graduate students will be assigned a primary academic advisor by the College of Architecture. New graduate students will be required to meet with their primary advisor prior to registering for the following semester.

For more information please visit Student Resources.

The GP Graduate (Program) Advising Hold becomes active before the next semester of registration opens for the following:

Co-Terminal students in the first semester of graduate co-terminal enrollment
Traditional masters students at 9 earned or enrolled credits
Doctoral students at 18 earned or enrolled credits

The GP Hold prevents registration before the following semester until lifted by the advisor. The mandatory advising session is required for the student to clear the advising registration hold.

Students will be notified by their primary advisor how to best schedule their required advising appointment. In general, students may begin scheduling their advising appointments two weeks prior to the first day of registration for the following semester.

At this advising appointment, students will receive a Registration PIN (also referred to as an alternate PIN) and the registration block, which is placed on a student’s record by the Graduate College, will be removed. This will be the only required advising appointment for Graduate students. After their first semester, Graduate student Registration PINs will be visible in the Illinois Tech Portal (under IIT Personal ID numbers).

All graduate students registering for research courses numbered 591, 594, 597, and 691 must receive approval from their faculty advisor, in the form of an electronic permit, before registration.