sustainable design
M.Arch. I; M.Arch. II; M.S.S.D.
This curriculum offers two design-based and one scholarly program that study the relationship between the built and natural environments. The M.Arch. I program is designed for graduate students without a previous degree in architecture. The M.Arch. II, or Post Professional program, is designed for students who already have an undergraduate professional degree. The M.S.S.D., or Master of Science in Sustainable Design program, is designed for students who wish to prepare for the Ph.D. or for employment in research, activism, or public policy.
The program as a whole reflects increasing student and faculty interest in three areas of inquiry — natural systems, building systems, and cultural systems. The study of natural systems relies upon the disciplines of physics and ecology as they relate to architecture. The study of building systems includes investigation of those component technologies that are required to construct environmentally responsive architecture. The study of cultural systems requires that natural and building systems be investigated within the complex social and political context of architectural practice. In sum, the Sustainable Design Program is practical, technical, and philosophical in scope.