Mar 28, 2024  
Graduate Catalog | 2022-2023 
    
Graduate Catalog | 2022-2023 Previous Edition

Architecture, M.Arch., and Information Technology, M.S., Dual Degree


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Design has become increasingly important to computer scientists and at the same time computation has become important to designers. The dual degree program in Architecture and Information Technology program is a unique curriculum that systematically combines the strength and insights of these disciplines. Students in this dual degree program enroll simultaneously in both degree programs.

As computing has matured as a discipline, it has expanded its focus to include the physical and virtual settings in which users interact with the machine. Specialties like human computer interaction, ubiquitous computing, gaming, and visualization require an understanding not only of the logic of the machine, but also the logic of the user. Based on these concerns, the design thinking ability that is an integral part of design training is of interest as an alternative paradigm that may change the way that students think and operate.

Within architecture, there is a unique opportunity to develop students who will have the knowledge to lead the integration of the computer into architectural practice and research. As firms rely more and more on computation, those who know how to think, program, and script will be able to change the way architects design and practice. We see the day fast approaching when the IT department at firms is not separate but rather is at the core of what architects do. Already, in advanced practices across the world, computing and design are intermingling.

The curriculum integrates architecture students with information technology students, working collaboratively on tasks that challenge both fields. Early in the curriculum, the cohorts with architecture background and those with computing background take courses to provide basic competency in a new discipline.

A two-semester sequence of studio lab courses focuses on issues and problems that are researched by design teams.

Note: The Master of Architecture in the School of Architecture is fully accredited through the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB).  The architecture curriculum included in this dual degree program meets all NAAB professional degree requirements needed for licensure as a registered architect.

Admission Requirements


Interested students should apply to the Master of Architecture and be evaluated by the graduate admissions committee of the School of Architecture, as well as apply for the Master of Information Technology and be evaluated by the graduate admissions committee of the Department of Software and Information Systems.  Admitted students are expected to complete all coursework outlined below to receive both degrees.  Upon successful completion of all requirements, students receive both the Master of Architecture degree and the M.S. in Information Technology degree.

Eligibility

The minimum admission requirements for the Master of Architecture are:

  • An earned bachelor’s degree from a college or university accredited by an accepted accrediting body
  • An overall undergraduate GPA of at least a 3.0 (based on a 4.0 scale)
  • A minimum TOEFL score of 220 (computer-based), 557 (paper-based), or 83 (internet-based) or a minimum IELTS band score of 6.5 required from any applicant whose native language is not English
Documents To Be Submitted For Admission

To apply for graduate studies in the School of Architecture, all applicants must submit the following application materials to the UNC Charlotte Office of Graduate Admissions:

  • Graduate School Application for Admission (online)
  • Application Fee (payable online)
  • Unofficial transcripts from all previous college-level institution(s) attended (submitted online)
  • Official TOEFL scores
  • Official GRE or GMAT scores (sent directly online from testing services)
  • Three recommendations (submitted online by recommenders)
  • A resume (submitted online)
  • A statement of purpose indicating research interest and potential faculty advisor (submitted online)
  • Digital Portfolio illustrative of research interests and design background 
Automatic Recommendation for Admissions for Master of Architecture

The School of Architecture Graduate Admissions Committee will automatically endorse applications from UNC Charlotte four-year Bachelor of Arts in Architecture degree holders with a GPA of 3.5 or above for courses in the major for acceptance to the Master of Architecture program. UNC Charlotte B.A. in Architecture students with a GPA of 3.5 do not need to submit the full School of Architecture application; however, must still apply to and be accepted by the MSIT admissions committee and the UNC Charlotte Graduate School.

M.Arch. II / MSIT Degree Requirements


The M.Arch. Advanced Standing / MSIT Dual Degree takes three years and a total of 83 credit hours to complete.

M.Arch. II / MSIT Degree Requirements


The M.Arch. Advanced Standing / MSIT Dual Degree takes three years and a total of 83 credit hours to complete.

Dual Degree Total = 83 Credit Hours


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