Program Overview

The STEM-designated Master of Architecture (M.Arch) program is fully accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). Our program prepares students for entry into the architecture profession and licensure.

In a rapidly changing world where unprecedented challenges emerge with ever-increasing frequency, the education of an architect must remain adaptive. The University of Colorado Denver Department of Architecture fosters the capacity to ask bold questions, take risks, think independently, and approach the work of architecture with curiosity. In doing so, we strive to be agile, flexible, visually adept thinkers and makers who contribute to addressing global challenges over a lifetime of active, inquisitive learning.

Program Information

We offer two tracks for completing your Master of Architecture (M.Arch) degree based on your experience level. If you have a bachelor's degree that is not in architecture or a related bachelor's degree, you should plan on at least three years to earn your M.Arch degree. If you have a pre-professional bachelor's degree in architecture or a related design field, you may receive advanced standing credit for your previous coursework and can expect to complete your M.Arch degree in about two years. You can learn more about the curriculum for each track below. 

Our Master of Architecture is a STEM-designated program, officially approved by the Colorado Board of Higher Education (CIP code: 04.0902). The STEM designation allows our Masters of Architecture students to apply for the Department of Homeland Security’s optional practical training (OPT) extension program for F-1 students with STEM degrees. Upon completion of a STEM-designated degree, students may extend their stay in the United States for an additional 24 months.

60 CREDIT HOUR COURSE CURRICULUM

• If you are a student with a pre-professional bachelor's degree, this track enables you to pursue a professional Master of Architecture degree in a minimum of two years.
• To qualify for the Four Studio Track M.Arch, you must hold a Bachelor of Science in Architecture, Bachelor of Art in Architecture, or Bachelor of Environmental Design in Architecture.
• Any degrees awarded by universities outside the United States will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The admissions committee will determine the appropriate track.
• The Four Studio Track curriculum for the M.Arch program is divided into six major components totaling 60 semester hours in residence at the University of Colorado Denver.

Four Studio Track: This course of study is designed for students with a pre-professional degree in architecture. Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science in Architecture, a Bachelor of Art in Architecture, or a Bachelor of Environmental Design to be considered for this track.