BA in Architectural Studies in Boston United States | Boston University

The Architectural Studies program focuses on developing core competencies essential for analyzing, creating, and documenting both historic and modern structures and environments, while preparing students for professional paths or advanced education in architecture, landscape design, preservation, and city planning. Leveraging Boston's rich architectural heritage, this program serves as excellent preparation for those pursuing graduate studies in design-related fields.

Students in the Architectural Studies program can participate in study abroad experiences via BU's Venice Studio Arts program and gain practical experience through the Architecture Capstone course (CAS AH 486). The curriculum encourages students to complement their studies with electives in architecture-related disciplines like archaeology, anthropology, philosophy, history, sociology, engineering, and urban studies. The program supports interdisciplinary education through dual majors or major/minor combinations, with each student receiving personalized guidance from their advisor to create a tailored academic plan. Beyond the required 11 courses, aspiring architecture graduate students should complete calculus (CAS MA 121 or 123) and physics (CAS PY 105), with additional recommended courses in public speaking (CFA TH 110 and/or COM CM 311) to enhance presentation abilities.

Learning Outcomes
Students will:

Develop specialized knowledge to prepare for professional careers in architecture and design disciplines.
Cultivate critical reading, analytical thinking, creative design, and cohesive writing skills.
Establish a comprehensive understanding of architectural and urban history and theory.
Gain proficiency in evaluating visual, spatial, and structural aspects of architecture.
Develop research capabilities to gather evidence and formulate arguments about architectural, landscape, or urban topics.