Are you passionate about design and eager to shape the built environment? Do you envision yourself as an architect, but come from a different academic background? The Texas A&M Master of Architecture career grad program is your ideal pathway to making that vision a reality. This intensive program is specifically designed for talented individuals like you – those holding degrees outside of architecture – who are ready to embark on a rewarding career change.
This accelerated program at Texas A&M University is structured to immerse you in architectural thinking and design principles. You’ll leverage your unique prior experiences while rapidly gaining foundational knowledge in the field. Upon successful completion of this focused curriculum, you’ll seamlessly transition into the professional, NAAB-accredited Master of Architecture program, setting you firmly on the path to becoming a licensed architect.
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Discover the A&M Career Change Program in Architecture
The in architecture is meticulously crafted for ambitious students who hold bachelor’s degrees in fields other than architecture but are driven to pursue this dynamic profession. Our rigorous introductory curriculum compresses fundamental architectural education into four semesters – encompassing two intensive summer sessions and two regular academic semesters.
Students who excel in the career change program are guaranteed progression into the comprehensive Master of Architecture curriculum at Texas A&M, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition into advanced architectural studies.
Core Areas of Study
The curriculum is designed to provide a holistic understanding of architecture, covering essential domains:
- Architectural Design: Develop your creative design skills and learn the core principles of architectural aesthetics and functionality.
- Visual Communication: Master the art of communicating your design ideas effectively through various visual mediums and techniques.
- Building Materials & Construction: Gain in-depth knowledge of construction processes, materials, and their application in architectural design.
- Structural & Building Systems: Understand the engineering principles behind building structures and systems to create safe and sustainable designs.
- Environmental Control Systems: Learn about designing energy-efficient and comfortable buildings by integrating environmental control systems.
- Architectural History & Theory: Explore the rich history of architecture and delve into the theoretical frameworks that shape contemporary design.
“Trying to approximate four years of undergrad education in one-and-a-half years of Career Change was a wild, completely exhausting test of mind and body.”
Bill Poole ’94
Poolehaus Residential Design, an Award-Winning Kansas CIty-Based Design Firm
Curriculum Breakdown: Master of Architecture Career Change
The Master of Architecture career change program at Texas A&M is a structured 42-credit-hour program designed to build a strong foundation in architectural knowledge for career switchers. The program unfolds over a strategically planned sequence: a 5-week summer introduction, followed by fall, spring, and summer semesters.
Successful completion of this intensive career change curriculum directly leads to the 2-year Master of Architecture program, positioning you for advanced studies and professional licensure.
Semester by Semester Curriculum
Summer Semester – Intro to Architecture (5 weeks)
- ARCH 600 – Introduction to Architecture and Urban Design (3 credit hours)
Fall Semester
- ARCH 601 – Design Fundamentals I (6 credit hours)
- ARCH 610 – Visual Communications (3 credit hours)
- ARCH 612 – Structural and Environmental Technology Concepts (3 credit hours)
- ARCH 689 – Architectural Envelopes (3 credit hours)
Spring Semester
- ARCH 602 – Design Fundamentals II (6 credit hours)
- ARCH 614 – Elements of Architecture Structures (3 credit hours)
- ARCH 615 – Elements of Environmental Control Systems (3 credit hours)
- ARCH 689 – Contemporary Architecture (3 credit hours)
Summer Semester (10 weeks)
- ARCH 603 – Design Fundamentals III (6 credit hours)
- ARCH 689 – Architectural History (3 credit hours)
The curriculum is detailed to ensure a comprehensive learning experience, from introductory seminars and studios to advanced design foundations and historical analysis. Each course is designed to build upon the previous one, fostering a progressive understanding of architectural principles and practices.
Examples of Recent Graduate Projects
Witness the impactful work of recent graduates from the a&m career grad program, showcasing the culmination of their studies in final projects that address real-world challenges and explore innovative design solutions.
“IntraHousing: Housing for Student Teachers in Rural School Districts” imagines an architectural solution to the educational gap rural East Texas school districts face.
Katie Ridlen ’22
View Katie’s Final Project
“Rethinking the Box” explores the idea of revitalizing a vacant grocery store using a more human- and nature-centered approach to create a residential development that promotes social interaction, diversity, environmental care, and active living.
Oscar Garza Reza ’21
View Oscar’s Final Project
“As a designer, I believe the world is colorful, and composed of images which we use in order to compose the collages of our lives. I am interested in the way architecture acts as a catalyst for vulnerable communities and how design can be used to better the lives of those who experience it, ideally identifying the role architecture plays in the collages of our lives.”
Manuel Alvarado ’20
View Manuel’s Final Project
The idea of architecture for art is the driver for this project by building off the ideologies of Donald Judd and his critiques of museums for the sake of museums.
Michael Irving ’20
View Michael’s Final Project
This project is a Waste to Energy facility in Wilmington Waterfront, Los Angeles, which integrates municipal waste treatment facilities with outdoor green roods, indoor exhibition hall, and indoor visitor centers.
Ziyang Li ’20
View Ziyang’s Final Project
Admissions to the Career Change Program
Admission to the Texas A&M career grad program is open to individuals holding a bachelor’s degree in any field who demonstrate a strong aptitude and passion for architecture. We value diverse backgrounds and recognize the unique perspectives that career changers bring to the field.
A harp player whose sensitivity influenced her building designs, a mathematician who designed amazing structures by calculating weight and balance to a very advanced level, and a psychology major who created the most beautiful equine center project he’s ever seen because she understood of how it should “feel” when people walked through it.
Marcel Erminy
More about requirements Apply
Frequently Asked Questions about Admission
What qualities do you seek in an applicant?
We are looking for individuals with a bachelor’s degree who exhibit a strong capacity and genuine passion for architectural work. We value creativity, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to design excellence.
How can I best prepare for the program academically?
A foundational understanding of math and physics is beneficial. While not strictly required for application, demonstrating proficiency in these areas strengthens your application and prepares you for the technical aspects of the curriculum.
Is a portfolio a mandatory requirement for application?
Yes, a portfolio is required. It should showcase your creative abilities and/or interest in architecture. Your portfolio can include:
- Replicas of your drawings, artwork, or other examples of your graphic expression skills.
- Articles, essays, or papers you’ve written on design or environmental topics.
- Illustrations from any work experience you have in architecture or related fields.
What is the application process?
Begin by submitting your application through Texas A&M GradCas along with the non-refundable application fee. Your complete application must include:
- Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.
- Three letters of recommendation (academic references are preferred).
- A comprehensive Goals Statement outlining your aspirations and motivations.
- Your Résumé or Curriculum Vitae.
- An Academic/Professional Portfolio showcasing your creative work.
Read more about the Master of Architecture Career Change application requirements.
What are the subsequent steps after completing the program?
Upon successful completion of the a&m career grad program, you will advance directly into the 2-year Master of Architecture program.
What are the crucial application deadlines?
Generally, adhere to the university application deadlines. For applicants seeking financial aid consideration for fall admission, it is highly recommended to submit all application materials to both the university and the department by December 15th.
What types of financial aid are available for the program?
We offer competitive merit-based scholarships to outstanding admitted students. These recruiting scholarships are awarded upon admission to help support your graduate studies.
Whom should I contact if I have further questions?
For all curriculum-related inquiries about the Master of Architecture program, please contact Monica Garner, our dedicated Graduate Advisor.
Career Paths After Graduation
The Master of Architecture program at Texas A&M equips graduates with the necessary educational foundation to excel in the professional practice of architecture. To become a licensed architect, graduates must gain practical experience and successfully pass the architectural licensing examination.
Beyond traditional architectural practice, graduates of the a&m career grad program and subsequent Master of Architecture program pursue diverse and impactful career directions, including:
- Design & Fabrication
- Research & Development
- Real Estate & Construction
- Community and City Planning
- Government and Social Work
- Teaching, Research, and Scholarly Pursuits
Texas A&M’s Career Change Program: Your alternative route to a Masters of Architecture degree and a fulfilling career in design.
More FAQs About the Career Change Program
How can I academically prepare for the career change program to enhance my application?
While a bachelor’s degree in any field is acceptable, applicants can strengthen their preparation by ensuring a solid foundation in math and physics. Reviewing introductory concepts in these areas can be beneficial.
What are the explicit prerequisites for applying to the career change program?
Applicants must hold a 4-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Prerequisites for admission to the Career Change program specifically include proficiency in Math and Physics. Depending on your assessed proficiency level in these subjects, you may be assigned additional prerequisite coursework.
Is there an online option for this program?
No, our Master’s programs, including the career change program and the Master of Architecture, are offered exclusively in a face-to-face, on-campus format to provide an immersive and collaborative learning environment.
What is the typical duration to complete this career change program?
The career change program is designed to be completed in approximately 14 months, spanning a 5-week summer introduction, followed by a fall semester, a spring semester, and a final 10-week summer semester. It serves as a preparatory curriculum for the NAAB-Accredited Master of Architecture Degree program. Students who do not successfully complete the Career Change Curriculum will not receive a separate credential or certificate.
Helpful Resources for Students
Office of Information Technology
For any IT-related support and resources.
Computer Requirements
Read more about specific computer requirements for the program.
Get In Touch
For further information and personalized guidance regarding the a&m career grad program, please reach out to our dedicated faculty and staff:
Alejandro Borges
Associate Professor // Director of Professional Programs
Email Alejandro Borges
Monica A. Garner
Graduate Advisor/Senior Administrative Coordinator I
Email Monica A. Garner
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