Master of Architecture
The 3-year Master of Architecture (M.Arch) program at Woodbury University requires appr...
Master of Architecture
Burbank, California
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The 2-year Master of Architecture (M.Arch) program at Woodbury University is an intensive curriculum, typically requiring approximately 63 graduate credits. It is structured around rigorous design studios that form the core of the program, complemented by advanced coursework in building technology, architectural theory, digital fabrication, and professional practice. A significant strength of Woodbury's M.Arch program is its participation in the National Council of Architectural Registration Board's (NCARB) Integrated Path to Architectural Licensure (IPAL) initiative, which allows eligible students to fulfill licensure requirements (Architectural Experience Program - AXP, and Architect Registration Examination - ARE) concurrently with their academic studies, significantly streamlining the path to licensure.
STEM-designated: Yes, Woodbury University's Master of Architecture (M.Arch) program, including the 2-year track, is STEM-designated. This is a considerable advantage, particularly for international students, as it makes them eligible for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension in the United States. This extension allows for an additional 24 months of work authorization beyond the initial 12-month OPT period, providing international graduates with up to three years of valuable professional experience in their field. The STEM designation reflects the program's strong emphasis on computational design, building science, industry practices, and technology.
NAAB-accredited: Yes, the Master of Architecture (M.Arch) program at Woodbury University is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). NAAB is the sole agency authorized to accredit professional degree programs in architecture in the U.S. This accreditation ensures that the program meets rigorous national standards for architectural education and that graduates fulfill the educational requirements for architectural licensure in all 55 U.S. jurisdictions under the NCARB, preparing them for a career as a professional architect.
Curriculum: The 2-year M.Arch curriculum at Woodbury is focused on advanced architectural study. It builds upon the pre-professional background of its students through intensive design studios, which are the central component of each semester. Complementing the studios, students engage in coursework covering advanced topics in architectural theory and criticism, structures, environmental systems, advanced digital visualization and fabrication techniques, and professional practice. The curriculum culminates in a comprehensive graduate thesis studio, where students undertake a significant design project and related research, demonstrating their mastery of architectural design and critical inquiry. An optional summer fieldwork studio is also available, providing opportunities for directed research.
Research Focus: The Woodbury University M.Arch program, including the 2-year track, integrates a strong applied research focus, particularly within its advanced design studios and the culminating thesis project. Students are encouraged to engage with contemporary architectural discourse, investigating connections between their design work, emerging technologies, and the built and natural environments. The program leverages the unique conditions of Southern California as a living laboratory for addressing contemporary architectural, environmental, and urban challenges, such as population growth, environmental impacts, and aging infrastructure. Students are expected to conduct independent research to inform their design proposals and contribute to the broader architectural discourse.
Industry Engagement: Woodbury University maintains robust industry engagement within its M.Arch program, aiming to produce highly competent and "future-ready" architectural professionals. The curriculum is closely aligned with professional practice and designed to prepare students for direct entry into the architectural field. Key aspects of industry engagement include the Integrated Path to Architectural Licensure (IPAL) initiative, which directly integrates professional experience (AXP hours) and examinations (ARE) with academic studies. The School of Architecture's career services actively support students with portfolio and resume development, organize annual career fairs that connect students with leading architectural firms (including major players like AC Martin, AECOM, and BNIM), and maintain an online job board. The active Alumni Council also provides mentorship and networking opportunities, ensuring strong connections between academia and practice.
Global Perspective: Woodbury University's M.Arch program fosters a significant global perspective. The program's design studios and theoretical discussions often delve into global urban conditions and architectural challenges, acknowledging the interconnectedness of contemporary design problems. While the 2-year program's intensive nature might limit extensive formal study abroad components, the overall university environment attracts a diverse international student body, enriching classroom discussions with varied cultural viewpoints and design approaches. This exposure prepares graduates to critically engage with and contribute to the built environment on a global scale, equipped to address the complex architectural issues of an increasingly interconnected world.
Location
Burbank, California
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 46746
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 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 58 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
Woodbury University is making quality education accessible and affordable to students from around the world. Understanding the financial challenges international students often face, the university offers a variety of scholarship opportunities that recognize academic excellence, leadership, creativity, and potential.
Talent and Program-Specific Scholarships: International students applying to creative fields such as Architecture, Animation, Game Art & Design, Graphic Design, Filmmaking, and Fashion Design may be eligible for additional portfolio-based scholarships. These are awarded based on the quality and originality of the student’s creative work and can significantly offset tuition fees.
Graduate Scholarships for International Students: While funding is more limited at the graduate level, some departments at Woodbury University offer scholarships for outstanding international applicants pursuing master’s degrees. Students applying to programs like the Master of Architecture (M.Arch) or MBA may qualify for competitive, merit-based awards. Graduate students are encouraged to inquire with their specific department regarding available funding opportunities.
A Master of Architecture (M.Arch) from Woodbury University, particularly the 2-year program designed for individuals with a pre-professional architecture degree, provides an accelerated and professionally accredited pathway to becoming a licensed architect. Situated in the dynamic urban environment of Los Angeles, this STEM-designated program builds upon existing architectural foundations with advanced design studio work, critical theory, and professional practice.
Licensed Architect: This is the primary and most common career goal. Graduates, after accumulating the required Architectural Experience Program (AXP) hours and passing the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) (often facilitated by IPAL), can become licensed architects, responsible for the complete design and construction oversight of buildings.
Project Architect/Senior Architectural Designer: Building on their pre-professional degree, 2-year M.Arch graduates are well-positioned to quickly advance into roles where they lead specific project phases, coordinate with consultants, and manage design teams within architectural firms.
Urban Designer/Master Planner: Leveraging their advanced understanding of urban contexts and design principles, graduates can work on large-scale urban development projects, contributing to the planning and design of neighborhoods, public spaces, and infrastructure in both private and public sectors.
BIM (Building Information Modeling) Manager/Specialist: With a strong foundation in digital tools and representation, graduates can specialize in BIM, leading the creation and management of intelligent 3D building models. This role is crucial for project coordination, clash detection, and efficient information management in contemporary architectural practices.
Sustainable Design Consultant: The program's engagement with environmental challenges equips graduates to advise clients on sustainable design strategies, material selection, and energy performance. They work to achieve green building certifications and promote environmentally responsible architectural solutions.
Construction Manager/Project Engineer: Their comprehensive understanding of building technology, construction processes, and project management principles allows M.Arch graduates to transition into construction management, overseeing projects from planning to completion and ensuring adherence to design, budget, and schedule.
Architectural Visualization & Storytelling Specialist: Graduates with advanced skills in digital rendering, animation, and virtual reality can specialize in creating compelling visual narratives of architectural designs for presentations, marketing, and public engagement.
Computational Designer/Design Technologist: This cutting-edge role involves exploring and implementing advanced computational methods, parametric design, and digital fabrication techniques to innovate architectural forms, processes, and solutions within a firm's research or design technology group.
Facilities Planner/Manager: Within large corporations, educational institutions, or healthcare systems, graduates can manage the strategic planning, design, and utilization of physical assets and facilities, optimizing space and ensuring alignment with organizational needs.
Historic Preservation Architect: For those with an interest in existing structures, an M.Arch provides the depth to specialize in the restoration, rehabilitation, and adaptive reuse of historic buildings, applying architectural principles to preserve cultural heritage while meeting contemporary needs.
