M.Arch. in Architecture

The professional Master of Architecture (M.Arch.) degree is designed for students with undergraduate baccalaureate degrees in fields other than architecture and for those holding a non-professional baccalaureate degree in architecture. The three-year (seven-semester) program helps prepare students to become leaders in the profession of architecture. Students enroll in a two-year core curriculum that helps prepare them with techniques, principles, histories, theories, and technologies related to the discipline of architecture. In the final year of the program the students develop a thesis project.

The M.Arch. program is a companion to our more than century-old accredited Bachelor of Architecture program and enjoys the curricular explorations and experiences that have gone into designing and maintaining a cutting-edge professional architectural education. The program is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). Effective January 2020, the M.Arch. is designated as a STEM program with the CIP code 04.0902.

In its 2019 accreditation visit, the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) praised Penn State’s M.Arch. program by pointing out that four accreditation conditions are met “with distinction”: (A2) Design Thinking Skills, (A7) History and Global Culture, (C1) Research, and (C3) Integrative Design.

Many U.S. states and territories require professional licensure/certification to be employed. If you plan to pursue employment in a licensed profession after completing this program, please visit the Professional Licensure/Certification Disclosures by State interactive map.