Architecture Architectural Studies
Description
Architects are creative problem solvers. The primary responsibility of the architectural profession is the design of meaningful, productive environments for human occupation and use. Architects, therefore, must be able to understand the needs and desires of the people who will inhabit and use their creations and effectively synthesize the complex structural, mechanical, constructional components, and cultural references that influence the design of a building. As designers, they must possess creative and aesthetic skills as well as technical knowledge, collaborative ability, and problem-solving agility.
The architecture program seeks to increase students’ desire to learn and to develop a capacity for design-thinking and sound, critical judgment while simultaneously developing their creative potential. Specifically, the curriculum provides the background and means for the student to:
- Analyze and understand society’s needs and desires.
- Translate these needs and desires into a physical form and spatial organization.
- Contribute creatively to the building construction industry.
- Search out new problems and contribute to environmental knowledge through design research.
- Initiate and review developments in technology and society.
- Participate in the community that makes decisions affecting the physical environment.
At the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, the professional degree in Architecture degree is a six-year course of study (4 years + 2 years) divided into a common first year (d.ONE) and a professional program of study. After completing the d.ONE curriculum common to all undergraduates in the College of Architecture, students apply for admission into the architecture program’s professional program. The professional program in architecture consists of two components: the four-year bachelor of science in design (BSD-Architecture) and the subsequent two-year master of architecture (M.Arch). In addition, both the BSD-Architecture and the M.Arch programs are STEM accredited.
Students in good standing at the completion of the BSD-Architecture are admitted to the M.Arch program without application.
In the United States, most state registration boards require a degree from an accredited professional degree program as a prerequisite for licensure. The National Architectural Accreditation Board (NAAB), which is the sole agency authorized to accredit U.S. professional degree programs in architecture, recognizes three types of degrees: the bachelor of architecture, the master of architecture, and the doctor of architecture. A program may be granted an eight-year term, an eight-year term with conditions, or a two-year term of continuing accreditation, or a three-year term of initial accreditation, depending on the extent of its conformance with established education standards.
Doctor of architecture and master of architecture degree programs may require a non-accredited undergraduate degree in architecture for admission. However, the non-accredited degree is not, by itself, recognized as an accredited degree.
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln Architecture Program offers the following NAAB-accredited degree program(s):
Two-year professional M.Arch program, 58 credit hour program. All applicants must hold a bachelor of science degree in architecture or equivalent from a NAAB accredited institution.
Three-year professional M.Arch program, 92 credit hour program. All students must hold a bachelor’s degree in any field and have completed a college level calculus course (3 credits) prior to beginning coursework. These deficiencies are evaluated by the program director on an individual basis after admission resulting from a review of the applicant’s transcripts and other pertinent professionally-related materials by the Student Affairs Committee.
For those who would like to pursue scholarship and research in architecture, the architecture program also offers a 36-credit-hour, scholarly-nonprofessional master of science in architecture degree for students with a bachelors degree in architecture or a related discipline.
The next accreditation visit for the University of Nebraska–Lincoln architecture program is in 2024.
The Master of Architecture Professional Program
The professional program in architecture is a six-year course of study that includes a one-year pre-professional segment, a three-year core segment culminating in the award of the bachelor of science in design (BSD), and culminates in the final two-year exploratory segment which results in the receipt of the professional master of architecture degree (M.Arch).
Although the bachelor of science in design degree is an integral part of the professional program in architecture, it should be clearly understood that the undergraduate BSD is not a professional degree and is not separately accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board. Most state registration boards will not acknowledge any degree unless accompanied by an accredited professional degree.
The accredited, first professional degree awarded by the College of Architecture is the master of architecture degree which is awarded at the successful conclusion of the professional program in architecture. This is the only accredited professional architecture program in the state of Nebraska.
The professional program in architecture is structured to develop highly competent professional architects capable of performing effectively in an evolving discipline.
d.ONE: The Common First Year
d.ONE engages and prepares students for exciting futures in all design fields within the College of Architecture.
The d.ONE curriculum, offered by the College of Architecture, introduces students to design through courses in three areas: Technique: Design Drawing (DSGN 120) and Computer Applications in Design (DSGN 123); Design Discipline: An introduction to the related design disciplines and design history; and Design Practice: Design Thinking (DSGN 110)and Design Making (DSGN 111).
In addition, students take University courses in math, English, communications, and a general education elective. DSGN 110 and DSGN 111 are sequential hands-on courses where students learn to work in teams to address problems and promote innovation. At the same time, they learn the foundational skills in composition, craft, presentation, and idea generation necessary for all design fields.
At the end of d.ONE, students have gained an understanding of the broad range of design and are eligible to apply to any of the design programs in the College: architecture, landscape architecture, and interior design.
Admission
Admission to the Architecture Program
After completion of the first year of d.ONE studies, students may apply for admission to the professional architecture program. Successful applicants will have their major changed to the BSD-Architecture option.
Available teaching resources and space capacities limit enrollment to the second year of the architecture program; therefore enrollment limits are established each semester.
Required courses must be completed before advancing to the next year of study.
Minimum Entrance Requirements
To be considered for admission to the architecture program, applicants must:
- Be enrolled in the College of Architecture.
- Be in good scholastic standing. (Minimum 2.6 cumulative GPA required for review.)
- Have completed the one-year d.ONE program of study.
Second Year Admission Process
- An application for admission may be completed by filling out the online application. The program receives applications once a year on March 1.
- Applicants must submit a portfolio conforming to the defined criteria for the program applied for by the date posted at the completion of the spring semester.
- Any applicant who has previously applied for admission and has not been accepted or who fails to enroll in the professional program in architecture after an acceptance must reapply in the regular manner. Students may apply for admission to the architecture program a maximum of three times.
Evaluation
The Student Affairs Committee of the Architecture Program will carefully evaluate all applications for admission. The committee considers three elements in their evaluation: successful completion of the first year degree requirements, cumulative grade point average and the portfolio of student work. Ultimately the committee assigns a weighted average between the cumulative grade point average and the portfolio of student work. The weighted grade point average gives additional value to the applicant’s achievement in the required DSGN prefix course or transfer equivalents in the pre-professional curriculum.
Selection
Admission to the architecture program will be awarded to applicants who show the greatest professional potential and have demonstrated scholastic achievement. The Student Affairs Committee reserves the right to not fill all available spaces in the professional program in architecture if it determines that the remaining applicants have not performed at an acceptable level.
Admission to the 2-Year Master of Architecture Program
Students having completed the BSD-Architectural Studies degree at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln may continue their studies culminating in the M.Arch without re-application, provided they exhibit a cumulative grade point average of B (3.0) and a studio GPA of B (3.0). Students must submit an intent form with a brief statement of purpose. A portfolio is not required. Students wishing to be eligible for fellowships and assistantships must submit the form by February 1. Fellowships and assistantships have separate applications.
Students from outside the program must apply to gain admission to the 2-year M.Arch degree program. Applications are available in October from the department office and are reviewed once a year in February. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required.
All applications for admission are subject to approval of the Student Affairs Committee. Enrollment shall be limited by the teaching resources and space capacities of the department. An enrollment quota is established prior to each admissions cycle.
Students in the professional program are governed by the rules, procedures and policies established in the architecture program. These are published in the Student Guide or by official notification by the faculty.
Minimum Entrance Requirements
To be considered for admission to the 2-year professional program in architecture, applicants must:
- Have a 4-year degree from an accreditation-leading architecture program.
- Present a portfolio of design work.
- Be in good scholastic standing.
- Have a B average or its equivalent in past academic programs.
The Student Affairs Committee of the architecture program requires a minimum TOEFL score of 550 or 213 computer-based or Internet-based score of 79-80 for all international student applicants whose first language is not English.
Evaluation
A portfolio of an applicant’s recent design work will be evaluated by the Student Affairs Committee of the architecture program and is considered to be a very important part of the application review process, along with the applicant’s educational profile, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and application form.
Selection
The limited number of spaces available each semester will be awarded to applicants who have displayed the highest abilities in a combination of scholastic achievement, design capability, and professional potential. Strong applicants with significant deficiencies may be admitted to the 3-year M.Arch program.
The admissions committee reserves the right to reject applicants who, in its opinion, have not reached an acceptable level of design proficiency.
Joint Degree Programs
Business
Architecture majors accepted to the 2-year master of architecture may choose to pursue a three-year course of study that leads to joint degrees of master of architecture and master of business administration. Participation in this joint degree program requires admission into both the M.Arch and MBA programs. Students should consult with their advisor to develop an appropriate plan.
Community and Regional Planning
Architecture majors accepted to the 2-year master of architecture may choose to pursue a course of study that leads to joint degrees of master of architecture and master of community and regional planning. This degree would require three years to complete. A suggested sequence of courses can be obtained from your advisor, the Architecture Program Director, or the Community and Regional Planning Program Director.
Admission to the 3-Year Master of Architecture Program
Minimum Entrance Requirements
To be considered for admission to the 3-year M.Arch program, applicants must:
- Have a four-year bachelor's degree in any field.
- Have a B (3.0) cumulative grade point average in past academic programs.
- Have completed one semester (3 cr) college calculus.
- Have completed one semester (3 cr) college physics.
Experience in art or design is recommended but not required for admission.
The Student Affairs Committee requires a minimum TOEFL score of 550 or 213 computer-based or Internet-based score of 79-80 for all international student applicants whose first language is not English.
Evaluation
The Student Affairs Committee evaluates the candidate’s past academic record, three letters of recommendation, a statement of educational goals, and the information requested on the application form. A portfolio is not required for candidates applying for the 3-year masters degree program; however, providing evidence of past achievements and/or creative activity is helpful to the committee in its evaluation.
Selection
The limited number of spaces available each semester will be awarded to applicants who have displayed the highest abilities in a combination of scholastic achievement and professional potential.
Deficiencies
The Student Affairs Committee and/or the program chair reserve the right to require additional coursework be done to correct perceived deficiencies in the candidate's educational background. Examples of common deficiencies include college calculus, basic design, and computer applications. Courses fulfilling these requirements are available at the University of Nebraska and may be taken in the summer preceding the first year of the program.
College Requirements
College Admission
Admission to the College of Architecture
Students accepted by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln must also seek enrollment into the College of Architecture by marking the proper major code on the University application form.
Freshmen and transfer students applying for admission to the architectural studies, interior design, and landscape architecture programs must submit complete admission application materials by May 1 for fall admission and December 1 for spring admission. These admission procedures apply to high school students seeking admission, as well as transfer students, international students, and also those transferring from the University of Nebraska Omaha and the University of Nebraska at Kearney to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
High School Standards Architectural Studies, Interior Design, and Landscape Architecture Programs
Prospective students interested in the professional programs in the College of Architecture are eligible to apply for admission into the architectural studies, interior design, and landscape architecture majors if their high school records meet the following standards:
- Mathematics–4 units of Algebra I, II, geometry, and one-half unit of trigonometry, one-half unit that builds on a knowledge of algebra or pre-calculus.
- English–4 units of intensive reading and writing.
- Social Studies–3 units. At least one unit of American and/or world history and one additional unit of history, American government, and/or geography.
- Natural Science–3 units. At least two of the three units selected from biology, chemistry, physics, and earth sciences. One of the units must include a laboratory.
- Foreign Language–2 units.
General Admission Requirements for the College of Architecture
In addition to the high school admission requirements, the College of Architecture has established the following general admission requirements for all undergraduate students.
New freshman students must:
- Graduate in the upper quartile of their high school class, or
- Have a high school GPA of 3.2 or higher, or
- Have an enhanced ACT composite score of 22, or
- Have a combined SAT verbal and math total of at least 1110 enhanced, or
- Receive permission from the program director with a waiver from the above requirements.
New international freshman students must:
- Meet the University of Nebraska–Lincoln entrance requirements for new international freshman students.
- Have a MELAB score of at least 80, or a minimum TOEFL score of 550, or computer-based score of 213, or Internet-based score of 79-80, or an IELTS of 6.5.
New transfer students must:
- Have a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA for architectural studies, landscape architecture, and interior design and be in good scholastic standing.
NOTE: New transfer students must comply with new freshman student entrance requirements if they have completed less than 12 credit hours of college study.
New international transfer students must:
- Meet the University of Nebraska–Lincoln entrance requirements for international transfer students.
- Have a MELAB score of at least 80, or a minimum TOEFL score of 550, or computer-based score of 213, or Internet-based score of 79-80, or an IELTS of 6.5.
- Have a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and be in good scholastic standing.
Students who transfer into the College of Architecture from other colleges at UNL must:
- Have a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA for architectural studies, landscape architecture, and interior design and be in good scholastic standing. Students transferring from UNO and UNK are included in the new transfer student category.
NOTE: New transfer students must comply with new freshman student entrance requirements if they have completed less than 12 credit hours of college study.
Readmission
Students who apply for readmission to the College of Architecture must have a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA for architectural studies, landscape architecture, and interior design, be in good scholastic standing and receive permission from the dean of the College.
Former students who withdraw after being admitted to the College, or who have been academically suspended and wish to be readmitted, must: a) be readmitted to the College in good scholastic standing and b) be in good scholastic standing in accordance with the program standards and receive permission from the program director. Applicants for readmission will compete for spaces available with all other admission applicants.
College Degree Requirements
Minimum Hours Required for Graduation
Bachelor of Science in Design (BSD-Architecture) – 120 hours
Bachelor of Science in Design (BSD-Interior Design) – 120 hours
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA) – 120 hours
Grading Appeals
A student wishing to appeal a grade should contact his or her professor for clarification first before an appeal can be filed. If the dispute cannot be resolved with the instructor it is recommended that the student meets with their advisor to get clarification on the appeals process. Appeals are only considered where it can be demonstrated that prejudice or capricious treatment influenced the grade received by the student.
Having exhausted these avenues, a student may then choose to make a formal appeal. The appeal is in the form of a written statement from the student to the program director. The director will then forward the letter to the Faculty Affairs Committee. The deadline for filing a grade appeal (which includes a written statement from the student) is 30 calendar days after the first day of classes of the next regular semester (fall or spring). Appeals filed after the deadline will not be heard.
Incomplete Grades
Incompletes for students in the pre-professional program shall be granted only for reasons outlined in the policy statement adopted by the University Senate. See the Office of the University Registrar’s website for the complete text.
Incompletes given to students in the professional programs are granted at the discretion of the faculty awarding the grade. The faculty and student together must file an incomplete form in the Student Success office to register the anticipated completion date and the grade that will be registered if the work is not completed by that time.
Students will be allowed a maximum of two weeks to remove incompletes from courses that are prerequisites to classes in which they are currently enrolled, or they will be administratively dropped from those courses.
Scholastic Standing
The following scholastic standards have been established to maintain the level of quality for students enrolled in the College of Architecture programs:
First Year – Architectural Studies, Landscape Architecture, and Interior Design
Students in the first year (d.ONE) are required to maintain both a semester and cumulative grade point average at or above 2.0. Students who fail to meet this standard are placed on academic warning and will not be permitted to take any new architectural studies, design, interior design, or landscape architecture courses without the permission of the program director.
Second, Third, and Fourth Year – Architectural Studies
Students in the second, third, and fourth years of the architectural studies program are required to maintain both a semester and cumulative grade point average of 2.6 to remain in good academic standing. The architectural studies program also requires that students earn a grade of a C or higher in all required courses. Students who fail to meet this standard are placed on academic warning and will not be permitted to take any new architectural studies courses without the permission of the program director.
Second, Third, and Fourth Year – Interior Design and Landscape Architecture
Students in the second year are required to maintain both a semester and cumulative grade point average of 2.6. Students in the third and fourth year of the BSD and BLA programs are required to maintain a 2.6 cumulative grade point average to remain in good academic standing. The program also requires that students earn a grade of a C or higher in all required courses. The program places students who fail to meet this standard on academic warning.
Master of Architecture
Students in the M.Arch program are required to maintain a semester grade point average of 3.0 to remain in good academic standing. The program places students who fail to meet this standard on academic warning.
Grade Rules
Students must earn at least a C (2.0) in all courses with an ARCH, DSGN, IDES, or LARC prefix to earn credit toward their degree. Students will be required to retake all required core courses with a grade of C- or below, but will not be required to repeat courses that were taken as electives.
Removal of Grades C- or Below
A student receiving a grade of C- or below for an overall course grade may remove that grade by retaking the same course again and receiving a higher grade at UNL, UNO, or UNK. The higher grade will be used to compute the student’s cumulative grade point average, but all grades appear on the student’s transcript. Students who choose to retake a course at an institution outside of the University of Nebraska system may count the course toward their degree requirement, but the grade will not replace the University of Nebraska–Lincoln grade from the student’s transcript.
The Pass/No Pass option cannot be used to remove these grades from the grade point average. Please be advised that once a course is no longer taught and no longer offered by the department it is not possible to remove a grade of C- or below through substitution or any other means.
Should a student perform poorly in many courses during a semester it is possible to bankrupt the entire semester’s grades. This is a drastic action and should be pursued only after a visit with the student's advisor.
Pass/No Pass Limits
None of the required classes offered in the professional program are offered Pass/No Pass, except DSGN 10. Classes applying toward ACE requirements specified by the College of Architecture may not be taken Pass/No Pass.
A maximum of 12 Pass/No Pass credits from departments outside of the College of Architecture may be taken from the following areas:
- Humanities and social sciences (i.e. open ACE areas where the College does not specify a required course)
- Open electives
Note - DSGN 421, DSGN 422, and/or DSGN 423 may be taken Pass/No Pass for technique, professional, and/or other elective credit and do not count against the 12-credit hour Pass/No Pass limit.
Transfer Credit Rules
Transfer credit is evaluated at the College level for general coursework and at the Program level for technical, professional, and non-accredited credits.
College Evaluation of Transfer Credit
First-time students transferring to the College of Architecture from a similar accredited professional degree program will be evaluated on the basis of the current undergraduate catalog in effect at the time the student enrolls in the College of Architecture.
Confirmation procedure:
- It is the student’s responsibility to initiate this task.
- The student procedure is to seek review of appropriate materials from the Student Success office.
- A “portfolio review” will determine confirmation of credit. This review will be done by the appropriate faculty member or committee.
Evaluation of General Education Credits
Transfer students who have formally applied for admission will have their academic credits evaluated by the Office of the University Registrar and the College of Architecture. The College will evaluate all hours submitted on an admission application but reserves the right to reject any of these credits.
Program Evaluation of Professional Credit
All professional credits earned at another university to be applied toward the master of architecture degree must be approved by the Professional Program Committee in cooperation with the program director. At least 50 percent of the required coursework for the professional degree must be completed at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, with the exception of those students who are applying to enter the program with a four-year degree from an accredited architecture program. No professional transfer credit will be accepted from a non-accredited architecture program.
Process
The program director will select and identify those courses that are applicable to the professional program in architectural studies, interior design, and landscape architecture programs. The College of Architecture will not accept courses for transfer that are below a 2.0 on a 4-point scale.
Evaluation of Technical and Non-accredited Transfer Credits
Students who desire to transfer credits from technical or non-accredited colleges must have architectural studies, interior design, and landscape architecture credits evaluated by the director and/or appropriate program representatives. Non-architecture credits will be evaluated by the appropriate university department.
Evaluation of Graphics, Design, and Production Drawing Credit
Transfer credit for graphics, basic and architectural studies, landscape architecture, and/or interior design work and production drawings will not be granted until the student’s work has been reviewed by the architectural studies, landscape architecture, or interior design program director. Allowable transfer credit in the design, production drawings, and graphics areas, whether the grades presented are C, B, or A, will be determined from this review and the student placed accordingly.
Clarification and Appeal
The student who has questions about or wishes to appeal the initial College evaluation of his or her transfer credit should contact the program office. If the evaluation is not satisfactorily resolved, the student has the right to register an appeal with the Student Affairs Committee of the architectural studies, landscape architecture, or interior design programs.
Transfer Catalog Year
Students who have transferred from a community college may be eligible to fulfill the requirements as stated in the catalog for an academic year in which they were enrolled at the community college prior to attending the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. This decision shall be made in consultation with the student’s College of Architecture academic advising team (e.g., Student Success Center professional advisor and the appropriate faculty Program Director). Eligibility is based on a) enrollment in a community college during the catalog year the student wishes to utilize, b) maintaining continuous enrollment of at least 12 credit hours per semester at the previous institution for at least 2 semesters, and c) continuous enrollment at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln within 1 calendar year from the student’s last term at the previous institution. Students must complete all degree requirements from a single catalog year and within the timeframe allowable for that catalog year.
Other College Degree Requirements
Off-Campus Programs
The College of Architecture recognizes the need for some students to pursue their first-year design studies at other institutions. One semester (15 credit hours) of off-campus study should cause minimal delay in students’ educational timetables if courses can be selected from the following list and are approved by the College of Architecture. Students are encouraged to coordinate their off-campus architectural studies, landscape architecture, and interior design programs with the College of Architecture.
Recommended Courses
Calculus (3 hrs)
English Composition elective (3 hrs)
Humanities and Social Sciences electives (9 hrs) See University of Nebraska–Lincoln ACE requirements.
Calculus-based Physics (4 hrs) for architectural studies or Introduction to Horticulture (3 hrs) for landscape architecture
Speech (3 hrs)
ACE Requirements
Achievement-Centered Education (ACE)
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln requires all students receive a broad general education as part of their academic experience. This requirement translates into the obligation of all students to fulfill the requirements of the ACE program.
English
Students are expected to take ENGL 150 Writing and Inquiry or ENGL 151 Writing for Change and COMM 286 Business and Professional Communication.
ENGL 186 ESL/Academic Reading Skills, ENGL 187 ESL/Academic Writing Skills, and ENGL 140 Advanced Academic Writing and Usage may not be used to satisfy the freshman English composition requirement.
Credit for ENGL 186 , ENGL 187, and ENGL 188 may not apply toward the BSD and BLA degrees.
Mathematics
All students in the College of Architecture are required to receive credit for MATH 104 Applied Calculus. Courses taken as deficiencies to qualify for MATH 104 will not apply as credit toward their degree (i.e. MATH 100A , MATH 101, MATH 102, MATH 103 and MATH subject area credit at the 100 level or below).
Learning Outcomes
Graduates of architecture will be able to:
- Apply design-specific modes of thought and methods of inquiry.
- Communicate and think diagrammatically through sketches, geometry, and models.
- Resolve individual creativity with the needs of clients and society.
- Integrate knowledge from different perspectives and disciplines into the design process.
- Consider the larger ethical, moral, and environmental implications of individual design actions.
- Comprehend the effectual and technical aspects of architectural design.
- Resolve multiple and often conflicting project variables into an integrated design.
- Reassess old prototypes and generate innovative architectural designs.
- Engage in the production of new architectural knowledge and design research.
- Raise clear and precise questions and design statements relevant to future practice.
- Practice effectively as interns and continue towards professional M.Arch degree and licensure.
Major Requirements
Architecture Curriculum
The architecture curriculum begins with d.ONE, a basic design first-year common to all undergraduate majors in the College of Architecture. This common first year introduces students to the fundamentals of Design Thinking (DSGN 110) and Design Making (DSGN 111). The d.ONE program is followed by three years of architectural instruction leading to a bachelor of science in design. After receipt of the bachelors degree, students may declare intentions to continue for an additional two years of study, leading to a professional master of architecture degree. The professional master of architecture degree is accredited by the National Architectural Accreditation Board (NAAB).
The College of Architecture, and all six years of the architecture program, are located at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture: d.ONE, First Semester | ||
| DSGN 10 | College of Architecture Smart Start | 0 |
| DSGN 101 | Introduction to Design | 2 |
| DSGN 110 | Design Thinking (ACE 7) | 3 |
| DSGN 120 | Design Drawing | 3 |
| Composition Elective (ACE 1) | 3 | |
| Writing and Inquiry | ||
or ENGL 151 | Writing for Change | |
| Select one course from ACE 6, 8, or 9 | 3 | |
| Credit Hours Subtotal: | 14 | |
| Architecture: d.ONE, Second Semester | ||
| COMM 286 | Business and Professional Communication (ACE 2) | 3 |
| DSGN 111 | Design Making | 4 |
| DSGN 123 | Computer Applications in Design | 3 |
| DSGN 140 | History of Design (ACE 5) | 3 |
| MATH 104 | Applied Calculus (ACE 3) | 3 |
| Credit Hours Subtotal: | 16 | |
| Architecture: Second Year, First Semester | ||
| ARCH 210 | Architectural Design Studio: Representation | 5 |
| ARCH 222 | BIM for Design - Introduction to BIM | 1 |
| ARCH 231 | Structural Fundamentals | 3 |
| ARCH 241 | Architecture History and Theory II | 3 |
| PHYS 151 | Elements of Physics (ACE 4) | 4 |
| Credit Hours Subtotal: | 16 | |
| Architecture: Second Year, Second Semester | ||
| ARCH 211 | Architectural Design Studio: Ideation | 5 |
| ARCH 232 | Materials and Assemblies | 3 |
| ARCH 262 | Building Organization | 3 |
| Technique Elective | ||
| Select one from the following: | 1 | |
| Parametric Modeling for Design | ||
| BIM: Analysis | ||
| BIM: Interoperability | ||
| CNC Router | ||
| Metals | ||
| Plastics | ||
| Select one course from ACE 6, 8, or 9 | 3 | |
| Credit Hours Subtotal: | 15 | |
| Architecture: Third Year, First Semester | ||
| ARCH 240 | Architecture History and Theory I | 3 |
| ARCH 310 | Architectural Design Studio: Organize | 5 |
| ARCH 331 | Structural Mechanics | 3 |
| Select one course from ACE 6, 8, or 9 | 3 | |
| Credit Hours Subtotal: | 14 | |
| Architecture: Third Year, Second Semester | ||
| ARCH 311 | Architectural Design Studio: Situate | 5 |
| ARCH 332 | Structural Optimization | 3 |
| ARCH 360 | Site Context Issues | 3 |
| Open Elective | 3 | |
| Credit Hours Subtotal: | 14 | |
| Architecture: Fourth Year, First Semester | ||
| ARCH 333 / CNST 305 | Building Environmental Technical Systems I | 3 |
| ARCH 461 / LARC 461 | Urbanism | 3 |
| ARCH 489 | Design Research | 3 |
| DSGN 410 | Design Studio: Collaborate | 5 |
| Open Elective | 3 | |
| Credit Hours Subtotal: | 17 | |
| Architecture: Fourth Year, Second Semester | ||
| ARCH 341 | Architectural Theory | 3 |
| ARCH 411 | Architectural Design: Integrate (ACE 10) | 5 |
| ARCH 430 | Technological Integration | 3 |
| Open Elective | 3 | |
| Credit Hours Subtotal: | 14 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 120 | |
Additional Major Requirements
Grade Rules
C- and D Grades
Students must earn at least a C (2.0) in all courses with an ARCH, DSGN, IDES, or LARC prefix to earn credit toward their degree. Students will be required to retake all core required courses with a grade of C- or below, but will not be required to repeat courses that were taken as electives.
Credit in 500/600-level master of architecture courses is attained as follows:
- A minimum grade of B is required for professional credit in 500/600-level courses with 400 or lower counterparts. A grade of B- is not acceptable.
- A minimum grade of C or P (pass) is required for professional credit in 500/600-level courses without 400 or lower counterparts.
Pass/No Pass
None of the required classes offered in the professional program are offered Pass/No Pass, except DSGN 10. Classes applying toward ACE requirements specified by the College of Architecture may not be taken Pass/No Pass.
A maximum of 12 Pass/No Pass credits from departments outside of the College of Architecture may be taken from the following areas:
- Humanities and social sciences (i.e. open ACE areas where the College does not specify a required course)
- Open electives
Note - DSGN 421, DSGN 422, and/or DSGN 423 may be taken Pass/No Pass for technique, professional, and/or other elective credit and do not count against the 12-credit hour Pass/No Pass limit.
GPA Requirements
First Year – Architecture
Students in the first year (d.ONE) are required to maintain both a semester and cumulative grade point average at or above 2.0. The College places students who fail to meet these standards on academic warning.
Second, Third, and Fourth Year – Architecture
Students in the second, third, and fourth years of the architecture program are required to maintain both a semester and cumulative grade point average of 2.6 to remain in good academic standing. The architecture program also requires that students earn a grade of C or higher in all required courses. Students who fail to meet this standard are on academic warning and will not be permitted to take any new architecture courses without the permission of the program director.
M1 and M2 Years – Master of Architecture
Students in the M.Arch program are required to maintain a semester grade point average of 3.0 to remain in good academic standing. The program places students who fail to meet this standard on academic warning.
Requirements for Minor Offered by Department
The architectural studies minor provides an introduction to architecture through required courses in the history and theory of architecture and a range of elective courses in environmental and cultural factors, building technology, and related fields that shape the built environment.
This minor is open to all University of Nebraska–Lincoln undergraduate students.
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| ARCH 240 | Architecture History and Theory I | 3 |
| ARCH 241 | Architecture History and Theory II | 3 |
| DSGN 140 | History of Design | 3 |
| Credit Hours Subtotal: | 9 | |
| Elective Courses | ||
| Select three courses from the following: 1,2 | 9 | |
| Sustainability Basics and the Built Environment | ||
| Structural Fundamentals | ||
| Structural Mechanics | ||
| Structural Optimization | ||
| Building Environmental Technical Systems I | ||
| Architectural Theory | ||
| Urbanism | ||
| Design Research | ||
| Introduction to Planning | ||
| History of Interiors and Designed Objects | ||
| History of Landscape Architecture | ||
| Credit Hours Subtotal: | 9 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 18 | |
- 1
Two courses must be 300 level or above. Only one non-ARCH course allowed.
- 2
Only 9 hours taken in the minor may double-count toward a BSD in Interior Design or Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from the following courses: DSGN 140, ARCH 231, ARCH 241, IDES 445, IDES 489, LARC 241, LARC 461, CRPL 400. By following this restriction, students will take at least three classes toward the minor outside of their core curriculum for the BSD in Interior Design or Bachelor of Landscape Architecture.
Grade Rules
C- and D Grades
A minimum C grade is required.
Pass/No Pass
No courses may be taken Pass/No Pass except by permission.
Description: Introduction to the fundamentals, principles and current assessments relative to responsible, sustainable design as applied to the built environment.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
| ACE Outcomes: | ACE 8 Civic/Ethics/Stewardship |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:ACE 8 Civic/Ethics/Stewardship
Prerequisites: Admitted to Professional Architecture Program
Letter grade only
Description: Introduction to architectural design through reflective and projective techniques. Divergent and convergent approaches focus on fundamental ways in which user(s), matter, and environment inform architecture.
| Credit Hours: | 5 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 5 |
| Max credits per degree: | 5 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:5
ACE:
Prerequisites: ARCH 210
Letter grade only
Description: Consideration of multiple parameters including structure, organization, and material acknowledging their potential to inform each other. Exercises will engage a student's ability to effectively and persuasively communicate design positions with regards to appropriateness.
This course is a prerequisite for: ARCH 310
| Credit Hours: | 5 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 5 |
| Max credits per degree: | 5 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:5
ACE:
Prerequisites: Admission to the Architecture Program
This course is a mini course, not a semester-long course.
Description: Introduction to Building Information Modeling (BIM) and its application for design. An overview of the capabilities of BIM for 3D modeling, information tracking, documentation, and collaboration.
| Credit Hours: | 1 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 1 |
| Max credits per degree: | 1 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:1
ACE:
Prerequisites: Admission to a professional program in the College of Architecture or permission.
Description: Introduction to the concept of structure as integral and essential to architectural design. Exposure to basic physical principles and structural systems.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Prerequisites: Admission to a professional program in the College of Architecture
Description: Introduction to materials and assemblies with an emphasis on design implications and contemporary practices.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Description: Survey of the development of architecture from prehistory to the mid-eighteenth century.
This course is a prerequisite for: ARCH 341
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
| ACE Outcomes: | ACE 5 Humanities ACE 7 Arts |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:ACE 5 Humanities ACE 7 Arts
Description: Survery of the history and theory of architecture from the mid-eighteenth century to the present day.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
| ACE Outcomes: | ACE 7 Arts ACE 5 Humanities |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:ACE 7 Arts ACE 5 Humanities
Prerequisites: Admission to a professional program in the College of Architecture, or DSGN 110 and ARCH 241
Description: Introduction to spatial organizations as related to architectural programming and the design process. Exposure to common types of organizational configurations, the forces that shape them, and their consequential affects.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Description: Architectural design creating a complex programmatic and spatial organization. Creation/critique of design program; the proposal of plausible structure, material and their expressions; and the exploration of analytical and expressive potentials of representation.
| Credit Hours: | 5 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 5 |
| Max credits per degree: | 5 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:5
ACE:
Prerequisites: ARCH 310
Description: Architectural design creating effective and appropriate relationships with manmade/natural environments. Selection/critique of site; the analysis and documentation of contextual conditions; and the incorporation of structure, material, and their expressions into design.
| Credit Hours: | 5 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 5 |
| Max credits per degree: | 5 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:5
ACE:
Description: Architectural design creating effective and appropriate relationships with manmade/natural environments. Selection/critique of site; the analysis and documentation of contextual conditions; and the incorporation of structure, material, and their expressions into design.
| Credit Hours: | 5 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 5 |
| Max credits per degree: | 5 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:5
ACE:
Prerequisites: DSGN 123
Description: Introduction to parametric and related basic computational concepts for design. Explorations in specific parametric modeling software techniques.
| Credit Hours: | 1 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 1 |
| Max credits per degree: | 1 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:1
ACE:
Prerequisites: ARCH 232 or admission into the Construction Management degree program
Description: Introduction to various external force systems, and their resulting internal forces and deformations, which act on structural elements.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Prerequisites: ARCH 331
Description: Optimization of key properties of elemental components and systems of building structures: force, geometric, and material.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Prerequisites: PHYS 151.
Description: Characteristics and performance of buildings with respect to thermal and psychrometric environment in buildings related to human comfort, heat gain/heat loss, ventilation, natural energy systems and sustainable design principles, and plumbing and life safety systems in the Built environment.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Prerequisites: Admission to a professional program in the College of Architecture
Description: Architectural lighting and acoustical systems of buildings for non-engineers. Fundamentals of light and vision, lighting equipment, requirements for building lighting, fundamentals of sound and hearing, room acoustics, noise control, and basic design methods for both architectural lighting and acoustics.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Organized thematically.
Description: Architectural theory. Written accounts on what architecture should be and why. Compare a number of positions on particular issues that have persisted through the history of architectural theory.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Prerequisites: Sophomore standing or above.
Description: Survey of the architectural traditions of the African continent, from pre-historic times to the present day. Buildings-famous and typical-theories, and approaches that are appropriate to the specific cultural environments.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Prerequisites: ARCH 310
Description: Investigation of the interrelationship among the physical context as created by nature and humanity, the various design professions concerned with site development and architectural ideas. Site analysis, research, selection, and development projects along with practical exercises form the basis of the lab experience.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Description: Investigation of the interrelationship among the physical context as created by nature and humanity, the various design professions concerned with site development and architectural ideas. Site analysis, research, selection, and development projects along with practical exercises form the basis of the lab experience.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Prerequisites: Permission.
Description: Group investigation of a topic in architecture originated by the instructor.
| Credit Hours: | 1-6 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 6 |
| Max credits per degree: | 6 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:1-6
ACE:
Prerequisites: Permission.
Description: Individual investigation of a topic in architecture.
| Credit Hours: | 1-6 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 6 |
| Max credits per degree: | 6 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:1-6
ACE:
Prerequisites: DSGN 410, or by permission
Description: Continuation of complex problems as it relates to the integration and consideration of environmental stewardship, technical documentation, accessibility, site design, life safety, environmental systems, structural systems, and building envelope systems and assemblies, emphasizing technological considerations as formal and organizational determinants.
| Credit Hours: | 5 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 5 |
| Max credits per degree: | 5 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
| ACE Outcomes: | ACE 10 Integrated Product |
Credit Hours:5
ACE:ACE 10 Integrated Product
Prerequisites: DSGN 410, or by permission
Description: Continuation of complex problems as it relates to the integration and consideration of environmental stewardship, technical documentation, accessibility, site design, life safety, environmental systems, structural systems, and building envelope systems and assemblies, emphasizing technological considerations as formal and organizational determinants.
| Credit Hours: | 5 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 5 |
| Max credits per degree: | 5 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
| ACE Outcomes: | ACE 10 Integrated Product |
Credit Hours:5
ACE:ACE 10 Integrated Product
Description: Generate a design from conception to a finished product that emphasizes the awareness of the human and the environment in the creation of product design solutions.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
| Offered: | SPRING |
| Course and Laboratory Fee: | $100 |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Prerequisites: Permission.
Description: The shifting relationship between conceiving and making through hands-on, collaborative experience with actual design-construct projects in which students play a decisive role in all aspects of research, design and construction of the commission.
| Credit Hours: | 1-6 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 6 |
| Max credits per degree: | 6 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:1-6
ACE:
Prerequisites: ARCH 222
Description: Introduction to the principles and techniques of "GiM" (geometry information modeling) and analysis. Explores how "GiM" is essential to the concept of "BiM" (building information modeling) and how it is used in conjunction with different types of analytical modeling.
| Credit Hours: | 1 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 1 |
| Max credits per degree: | 1 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
| Offered: | SPRING |
Credit Hours:1
ACE:
Prerequisites: ARCH 222
Description: Cover the basics of data and interoperability, including the definitions of key terms and an overview of the various technologies to facilitate data exchange between different systems and platforms.
| Credit Hours: | 1 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 1 |
| Max credits per degree: | 1 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
| Offered: | SPRING |
Credit Hours:1
ACE:
Description: Integrative study of structural, building technology, and environmental technology systems in a building within the context of ARCH 411. Emphasis on the role structural, mechanical systems, and assemblages play in the evolution of an architectural design project. Students illustrate an understanding of the principles which underlie each of the technical systems and demonstrate the ability to apply those principles to the design project.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
| Offered: | SPRING |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Description: Integrative study of structural, building technology, and environmental technology systems in a building within the context of ARCH 411. Emphasis on the role structural, mechanical systems, and assemblages play in the evolution of an architectural design project. Students illustrate an understanding of the principles which underlie each of the technical systems and demonstrate the ability to apply those principles to the design project.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Prerequisites: ARCH 341
Description: Focused study of architectural theory and problems of practice and physicality examined in the context of the architectural detail.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Prerequisites: ARCH 311
Description: Explores architectural practice relative to representational communication both internally within the design process as well as with an external audience. This course also investigates the impact of tangential techniques appropriated to the practice. Readings, discussions, and projects will focus on issues of perception and projection relative to these systems and how they impact the practice of architecture in a contemporary context. Course structure is both a theory seminar addressing the position of representation through readings, as well as a laboratory for investigating their application.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Description: Survey and integration of theory, methods, research and findings from the social, behavioral, and managerial sciences as they relate to the design of work environments. Factors effecting change in the contemporary workplace.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Prerequisites: ARCH 360 or permission.
Letter grade only.
Description: Issues of contemporary urbanism and the processes of urban design. Experiential nature of cities, role of public policy, ideology, genesis and development of urban form and space.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Prerequisites: Permission.
Description: Community-oriented design studio. The design process and its relationship to the environmental development process.
| Credit Hours: | 1-6 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 6 |
| Max credits per degree: | 6 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:1-6
ACE:
Description: Processes, principles, and elements using plant materials as a key component of landscapes designed for human intent. Focus is on a systems approach, combining environmental attributes with functional needs to create aesthetic, functional, and sustainable landscapes for parks, commercial property, and residences using a combination of site visits and online resources.
| Credit Hours: | 4 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 4 |
| Max credits per degree: | 4 |
| Grading Option: | Graded with Option |
| Offered: | FALL |
| Course and Laboratory Fee: | $25 |
Credit Hours:4
ACE:
Prerequisites: Permission
Description: Integration of ecological and environmental assessment, design process and management considerations to create detailed landscape plans for public, private, and commercial clients. Includes dream landscape project. Individuals and collaborative teams will develop concepts and details, conduct client meetings and studio critiques, and communicate graphically and verbally through presentations.
| Credit Hours: | 4 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 4 |
| Max credits per degree: | 4 |
| Grading Option: | Graded with Option |
| Offered: | SPRING |
| Course and Laboratory Fee: | $25 |
| ACE Outcomes: | ACE 10 Integrated Product |
Credit Hours:4
ACE:ACE 10 Integrated Product
Prerequisites: Admission to the BSD program.
Description: Intensive study of particular historical and contemporary contributions by women to the design professions related to the built environment. Evaluation of design work by and about women seen in their aesthetic and intellectual context. Examinations of the roles and values of women in design and their impact on the assumptions and issues currently held by the profession.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Prerequisites: Admission to a professional program in the College of Architecture.
Description: Comprehensive overview of the complementary and contributory relationship between research and design, with a particular emphasis on design research as a projective activity.
| Credit Hours: | 3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
| Offered: | FALL |
Credit Hours:3
ACE:
Prerequisites: Permission
Description: Selective studies of contemporary problems in design and practice.
| Credit Hours: | 2-3 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 3 |
| Max credits per degree: | 3 |
| Grading Option: | Graded with Option |
Credit Hours:2-3
ACE:
Prerequisites: Permission.
Description: Group investigation of a topic in architecture originated by the instructor.
| Credit Hours: | 1-6 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 6 |
| Max credits per degree: | 24 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:1-6
ACE:
Prerequisites: Permission.
Description: Group investigation of a topic in architecture originated by the instructor.
| Credit Hours: | 1-6 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 6 |
| Max credits per degree: | 24 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:1-6
ACE:
Prerequisites: Permission.
Description: Individual investigation of a topic in architecture.
| Credit Hours: | 1-6 |
|---|---|
| Max credits per semester: | 6 |
| Max credits per degree: | 9 |
| Grading Option: | Graded |
Credit Hours:1-6
ACE:
PLEASE NOTE
This document represents a sample 4-year plan for degree completion with this major. Actual course selection and sequence may vary and should be discussed individually with your college or department academic advisor. Advisors also can help you plan other experiences to enrich your undergraduate education such as internships, education abroad, undergraduate research, learning communities, and service learning and community-based learning.
Critical - 2.60 cumulative GPA required in order to apply for a degree.
- 30 of the last 36 hours must be taken at UNL.
- ***Total Credits Applying Toward 120 Total Hours***