Architecture Program
The purpose of studying architecture is to learn how to make physical changes to our surroundings that enhance the quality of the built environment and our experience of life. Within this broad purpose, architectural study and practice include the tasks of providing shelter and environmental protection, providing appropriate settings for human activities, and creating forms that are aesthetically pleasing and supportive of social well-being in the community and society.
The Department of Architecture includes the Interior Architecture Program and maintains close ties with other departments in the School of Architecture and Allied Arts. Architecture faculty members believe that the interdisciplinary cooperation of environmentally concerned fields is important to the study of architecture and continually seek new ways to learn from each other.
A central part of architectural education is the design studio, in which students learn by doing through experience with the design of buildings. This kind of learning is demanding and students are expected to be committed and work independently and responsibly toward program and course objectives. In the design studio, continuous evaluation and response are the basic learning modes. The department sets high standards for student performance. Advanced students often work together in courses and as collaborators with faculty members in research investigations through independent study courses.
Interior Architecture Program
The Interior Architecture program has a national reputation for excellence in interior design education. It is highly regarded by both design educators and leading design firms from across the country and is consistently listed as one of the top interior design programs in the country. CIDA (Council for Interior Design) accredited degrees are offered at both the undergraduate and graduate levels and a post-professional degree, focused on research, is offered for students with a professional degree. Opportunities for graduates include interior design practice within an architectural firm or as an independent interior designer, lighting design, exhibit design, set design, facilities management and furniture design.
The Department of Architecture has offered interior design coursework since 1922 and the interior architecture program continues to be an integral part of the department. Students study interior design within a broad architectural context to prepare them for positions of leadership as interior designers in an increasingly complex professional context.
The interior architecture curriculum is strongly design-oriented. Design studio courses are the core of the curriculum and are augmented by courses in theory, technology and practice. Specialized interior design coursework in design history, construction and materials, color theory, furniture design, electric lighting, and professional practice complement the design studio and knowledge gained in these courses is integrated in studio work. A fully-equipped furniture design workshop allows students to design and construct furniture prototypes and details. Professional programs culminate in an individualized comprehensive design project developed by each student.
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