M.Arch in Architecture & M.S in Net Zero Design (Dual Degree)

Program Overview

The Catholic University of America offers a specialized dual degree program, combining the Master of Architecture (M.Arch, 3-Year program) with a Master of Science in Net Zero Design (M.S.N.Z.D.). This program is specifically tailored for students who hold a four-year undergraduate non-architectural bachelor's degree, providing them with a comprehensive professional architectural education alongside in-depth expertise in sustainable and high-performance building design. The program aims to cultivate architects who are not only skilled in design but also ethically committed to environmental stewardship and capable of addressing the pressing challenges of climate change within the built environment.

STEM Designated: Yes, both the Master of Architecture (M.Arch) and the Master of Science in Net Zero Design (M.S.N.Z.D.) programs at The Catholic University of America are STEM-designated. This designation is highly advantageous for international students, as it often allows for an extension of their Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the United States, providing additional work authorization after graduation. The STEM classification underscores the rigorous scientific, technological, engineering, and mathematical principles embedded within the curriculum of both degrees.

Curriculum: The dual M.Arch (3-Year) and M.S.N.Z.D. program is an extensive 129-credit-hour professional degree. The M.Arch (3-Year) component, which typically comprises 111 credit hours, provides a comprehensive foundation in architectural design, history, theory, technology, and professional practice for students without a prior architectural background. Students also have the opportunity to pursue concentrations within the M.Arch, such as Sacred Space/Cultural Studies, Technology and Media in Architecture and Interiors, Urban Practice, or Classical Architecture and Urbanism. The M.S.N.Z.D. portion adds an additional 18 credit hours of specialized coursework. This curriculum covers a wide range of sustainable design principles, including greenhouse gas emissions, zero energy design, embodied energy and life cycle analysis, national and international green rating systems, ethical design, sustainable operations and maintenance, water conservation and management, and design for WELL standards. The integrated nature of the dual degree allows for some overlapping credits, enabling students to earn both degrees at an accelerated pace, typically adding one additional semester to the M.Arch program duration.

Research Focus: The School of Architecture and Planning at Catholic University operates under a guiding philosophy of "stewardship," emphasizing the ethical responsibility of designers in creating a built environment that serves the common good and respects both human dignity and the natural world. The research focus within this dual degree program is heavily concentrated on design innovation for sustainability and advanced building performance analytics. This includes exploring strategies for achieving net-zero energy and carbon buildings, optimizing building performance through passive design, integrating renewable energy systems, and utilizing advanced technologies. Students are encouraged to engage in critical inquiry from the micro-scale of building details to the macro-scale of urban and regional planning. Thesis projects often delve into themes like intergenerational living, accessibility, and community placemaking, always with a strong emphasis on energy efficiency and environmental impact. The program's recognition with a U.S. Department of Energy Zero Energy Design Designation (ZEDD) further highlights its dedication to teaching best practices in zero energy design.

Industry Engagement: The School of Architecture and Planning actively cultivates strong relationships with the architectural profession and related industries. The program's commitment to sustainable design directly addresses the growing industry demand for professionals equipped to tackle environmental challenges. The curriculum is informed by current industry trends, and the program's location in Washington, D.C., provides unparalleled access to numerous architectural firms, engineering consultancies, government agencies, and organizations focused on sustainable development and urban planning. Students benefit from interactions with experienced faculty who often bring real-world practice into the classroom. The school also facilitates networking opportunities through guest critics, lectures, and potential internships. This strong industry connection helps ensure graduates are well-prepared for the evolving demands of professional practice in architecture and sustainable design.

Global Perspective: The dual M.Arch and M.S.N.Z.D. program inherently incorporates a strong global perspective by addressing universal challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and the need for sustainable development. The curriculum's coverage of national and international green rating systems acknowledges the worldwide effort to mitigate climate change through design. The program's emphasis on ethical design and stewardship resonates with global sustainability goals and the broader responsibility of architects in a globalized world. While the primary context for architectural practice may be the U.S., the fundamental principles of net-zero design, decarbonization, resilience, and ethical building practices are universally applicable, preparing graduates to contribute to sustainable solutions in diverse international contexts. The program fosters a mindset that transcends geographical boundaries, aiming for global prosperity and environmental well-being.