Master of Architecture
The M. Arch program at RWU focuses on providing rigorous professional training in archi...
Master of Architecture
Bristol, Rhode Island
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The M. Arch program at RWU focuses on providing rigorous professional training in architecture, emphasizing the successful integration of classroom theory and real-world application. It covers a broad range of topics essential for contemporary architectural practice, including sustainability, urbanism, historic preservation, planning, and real estate. A key feature is the guaranteed paid assistantships or internships for all M. Arch students through the award-winning Career Investment Program, offering unparalleled access to industry and career opportunities, particularly in major architectural hubs like Boston and New York City. Students benefit from personal studio space in the state-of-the-art Samsung Design Studio and access to advanced technology through rCloud, a virtual desktop solution.
STEM-designated: Yes, the Master of Architecture program at Roger Williams University is STEM-designated. This is a significant advantage, particularly for international students, as it allows them to be eligible for a 24-month extension of their Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the United States after graduation, in addition to the initial 12-month period, providing up to three years of work authorization in their field.
NAAB-accredited: The M. Arch program at Roger Williams University is fully accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). This accreditation is crucial as it signifies that the program meets the rigorous standards required for professional licensure in architecture in the United States. NAAB accreditation is a fundamental requirement for individuals seeking to become licensed architects.
Curriculum: The M. Arch curriculum at RWU is structured to provide a comprehensive and immersive education. While the time to completion varies depending on a student's prior educational background (ranging from roughly 2 to 3.5 years), the program delves into core architectural components. Courses typically include intensive design studios (Core Design, Advanced Option, Urban, Integrated, and Thesis Design Studios), architectural history, design communication and representation, building practices, technical skills, and professional practice. Students also have the option to pursue graduate certificates in Preservation Practices, Real Estate, or Urban & Regional Planning concurrently with their M. Arch degree, often with no additional cost or time, allowing for further specialization.
Research Focus: While the M. Arch program is primarily focused on professional practice and design application, research is integrated into the curriculum, particularly through thesis design studios and advanced option studios. Students are encouraged to explore environmental, social, historical, artistic, technical, and philosophical concerns within their designs, leading to in-depth investigations and innovative solutions. The "Teaching Firms in Residence" program also provides a unique opportunity for students to engage with real-world projects and design challenges under the guidance of leading practitioners, which often involves applied research. The broader university also supports research in sustainability and environmental areas, which can inform architectural studies.
Industry Engagement: Roger Williams University boasts exceptional industry engagement for its M. Arch program. The "Teaching Firms in Residence" program is a standout feature, bringing top architecture firms from the region and beyond directly to campus to teach graduate design studios. This provides students with direct exposure to leading practitioners and real-world project methodologies. Furthermore, the guaranteed paid assistantships and internships through the "Career Investment Program" offer invaluable hands-on experience with firms, organizations, and government agencies. RWU's strategic location between Boston and New York City, two major architectural hubs, provides unparalleled access to top firms and extensive job placement opportunities.
Global Perspective: Roger Williams University integrates a global perspective into its M. Arch program through various avenues. Students have study abroad opportunities in exciting international destinations like Barcelona, allowing them to engage with different architectural traditions and urban contexts. The "Teaching Firms in Residence" program also brings international practitioners to campus, enriching the learning environment with diverse global insights. The program aims to cultivate architects who can address global challenges related to sustainability, urbanism, and historic preservation, preparing them for an increasingly interconnected professional landscape. The commitment to expressing human values through design also inherently carries a global resonance.
Location
Bristol, Rhode Island
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 43488
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 85 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Roger Williams University (RWU) is supporting international students by offering a variety of scholarships designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need. These scholarships aim to make education more affordable and accessible for students coming from around the globe.
Merit-Based Scholarships: RWU provides several merit-based scholarships to international students, awarded primarily based on academic achievements such as high school GPA, standardized test scores, and extracurricular involvement. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are often renewable each year, provided the student maintains satisfactory academic performance.
Presidential Scholarship: One of the most prestigious awards at RWU, the Presidential Scholarship is granted to outstanding incoming international students who demonstrate exceptional academic merit and leadership qualities. This scholarship covers a substantial portion of tuition fees and is highly competitive.
Dean’s Scholarship: The Dean’s Scholarship recognizes strong academic credentials and offers financial assistance to international students who have demonstrated significant potential. This scholarship supports students contributing positively to the RWU community.
Need-Based Financial Aid: Though limited, RWU also considers financial need for international students. Applicants are encouraged to provide detailed financial documentation to be evaluated for need-based assistance. The university strives to help deserving students bridge the gap between cost and affordability.
Specialized and Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at RWU offer scholarships targeted to students pursuing specific majors or fields of study such as business, engineering, or architecture. International students enrolled in these programs can apply for such awards based on merit or project proposals.
A Master of Architecture (M. Arch) from Roger Williams University (RWU) provides a robust and professionally accredited pathway to a rewarding career in architecture. The program's blend of rigorous design education, practical experience through guaranteed internships, and specialized certificates equips graduates with a diverse skillset.
Licensed Architect / Project Architect: This is the most direct and common career path. Graduates work in architectural firms, from small boutique studios to large international companies. They are involved in all phases of a project, from conceptual design and client meetings to construction documentation, project management, and site supervision, leading to licensure after gaining required experience and passing the Architect Registration Examination (ARE).
Architectural Designer: Often an entry to mid-level role within an architectural firm, designers focus on the creative and technical aspects of design, creating drawings, models, and renderings under the supervision of a licensed architect. They are integral to the conceptualization and development of building projects.
Urban Designer/Planner: Leveraging knowledge from the Urban & Regional Planning certificate option, graduates can work for municipal planning departments, urban design firms, or non-profit organizations. They contribute to the design and development of cities, neighborhoods, and public spaces, focusing on issues like sustainability, community development, and infrastructure.
Preservation Architect/Specialist: With the Preservation Practices certificate, graduates can specialize in the restoration, rehabilitation, and adaptive reuse of historic buildings. They work with conservation organizations, government agencies, or specialized architectural firms, ensuring the integrity of historic structures while meeting contemporary needs.
Sustainable Design Architect: This role focuses on integrating environmentally responsible and energy-efficient practices into architectural design. Graduates can work for firms specializing in green building, contribute to LEED-certified projects, or consult on sustainable design strategies.
Building Information Modeling (BIM) Specialist/Manager: Architects with strong technological skills can specialize in BIM, a process that creates and manages digital representations of physical and functional characteristics of places. They manage BIM models for projects, ensure data accuracy, and facilitate collaboration among project teams.
Construction Project Manager: With a comprehensive understanding of building processes gained from their M. Arch, graduates can transition into construction management. They oversee the execution of building projects, coordinating between clients, architects, engineers, and contractors, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
Real Estate Developer/Consultant: The Real Estate certificate provides a unique advantage for graduates interested in the business side of the built environment. They can work in real estate development firms, identifying opportunities, managing projects from conception to completion, and understanding the financial and market aspects of architectural projects.
Architectural Visualization Specialist: For those with exceptional digital rendering and modeling skills, this role focuses on creating high-quality visualizations (renderings, animations, virtual reality experiences) of architectural designs for presentations, marketing, and client communication.
Academic/Research Role: Graduates passionate about advancing architectural theory and education can pursue academic careers, potentially after further doctoral studies. They can teach, conduct research, and contribute to architectural discourse at universities.
