MS in Architecture

The M.S. in Architecture program is an advanced post-professional, research- based degree, featuring two concentrations: Façade Design and Technology and High Performance Building. This degree prepares students for specialist and consulting positions in the broad field of the built environment in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry.

Recognizing that the architecture profession is constantly changing, the program is designed to fit current industry needs and is adaptable as requirements and expertise evolves. As a student in this program, you will have the opportunity to focus your studies on a specific area of architecture to directly apply your research to your current work or to fit your career path. The MS provides its graduates with an additional credential that enables them to pursue research and entrepreneurial practices, careers in academia or expand the knowledge of the profession. It is expected that students will have previous experience in the technical and professional aspects of building design with a degree in architecture, engineering or other related field. The typical program length is three or four semesters.

Concentrations are supported by faculty with professional experience and research interests in these areas:

Façade Design and Technology: This concentration will be the first of its kind in North America. Façade Design and Technology will examine current industry best-practice and promote innovation for the next generation of façade design. The concentration advocates the global approach to façade design and is partnering with a European university to allow for students to take classes at both institutions. The concentration will also leverage strong connections to local professionals and industry to support student projects both analog (prototyping) and digital (modeling).

High Performance Building: The integration of the planning, design and technology of buildings is at the core of this concentration. High Performance Buildings is a broad topic area that allows the student to pursue a range of projects including: net zero and net positive energy conscious design, responses to natural forces, lighting and daylight, passive and active solar design, efficient building systems, off-site construction processes, materials and life cycle and methods of construction.

About the Curriculum

Like other graduate programs in the College of Architecture and the Built Environment, sustainability, innovation and collaboration will be at the core of the curriculum and you will benefit from our Nexus Learning approach, Thomas Jefferson University’s distinct method of teaching and learning. With Nexus Learning, you will have opportunities to work with students from other disciplines, and take up to 12 credits of classes from one of our sister graduate programs such as Sustainable Design or Construction Management.

Unique to the M.S. in Architecture is the option for you to work in an office while conducting research for credit. This potential allows you to become an “embedded researcher” in the office, working in practice while progressing toward your degree. At the same time, this provides the office an opportunity to develop expertise and a research profile that they normally would not have. The degree introduces participants to design and research methods and new knowledge in the concentration areas.

Jefferson’s MS.in Architecture is a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) designated program (CIP Code 04.0902). This allows international students to be eligible for an extension of the Optional Practical Training (OPT) period. OPT is a type of work authorization for F-1 student visa holders that provides an opportunity for employment experience in the United States (US).