Architecture: Building Performance, MARCH
Overview
for the Master of Architecture in Architecture, Building Performance Concentration
The Concentration in Building Performance in the Master of Architecture (M.Arch) Program at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign provides students the opportunity to develop an in-depth understanding of building performance through the integrated design and analysis of environmental, enclosure, structural and related systems. Coursework enables students to engage contemporary architectural issues related to sustainability, environmentally responsible use of energy and materials, human comfort and health, and constructability. In addition to completing architectural design studios focused on technology and performance, students will select from a series of specialized elective courses in building technologies, energy modeling and simulation, building envelope design, climate responsive design, daylighting, advanced structural design and analysis, and integrated design processes. The concentration thus gives students a strong foundation and expertise in the various principles and technologies that contribute to the design of high-performance buildings in contemporary architectural practice.
Students who declare the Concentration in Building Performance are required to submit to their selected advisor, at the end of their first semester of study and not later than the first day of classes of the second semester, a Plan of Study that outlines their intended coursework during each semester of the M.Arch program. This plan must be signed by the student and the advisor and submitted to the Chair of the Building Performance Program Area and the Director of Graduate Studies not later than the second week of classes in the student’s second semester of study.
This Concentration can be completed within the normal timeframe of the M.Arch degree. Successful completion of the Concentration will be noted on the student’s official transcript.
Admission
The admission grade point average for full standing in the Graduate College and the school must be at least 3.0 (A = 4.0). For applicants who meet the other requirements but have an admission GPA under 3.0, admission with limited standing may be permitted if evidence of exceptional qualification is presented.
Applicants are selected for admission on the basis of undergraduate academic performance and profession-related experience. Application material is evaluated by faculty members. The faculty's recommendations are based upon an appraisal of the admission grade point average determined from official transcripts, a portfolio or brochure of applicant's past work in architecture, a statement of objectives, three letters of recommendation, and relevant professional work experience.
To apply, go to the Graduate College online application. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores are not required for School of Architecture Masters Degree applicants. Please review the English Proficiency Requirements for Graduate Admission.
Degree Requirements
for the Master of Architecture in Architecture, Building Performance Concentration
Students who declare the Concentration must complete a minimum of 15 credit hours of coursework with a focus on building performance.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Architecture Studios | 6 | |
| ARCH 573 | Design: Technology and Performance | 6 |
ARCH 573 shall be taken from a faculty member whose primary Program Area affiliation is Building Performance or as approved by the chair of the Building Performance Program Area. | ||
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Elective Courses | 9 | |
| These courses also fulfill elective requirements for the M.Arch. degree. | ||
| Students must complete 9 hours of coursework in the School of Architecture focused on issues of building performance and taught by Faculty in the Building Performance Program area. Faculty offer a wide variety of graduate courses that vary by semester. Students should consult with their advisor on a course of study that includes coursework suited to the student's interests. | ||
| Other Graduate Courses | ||
Faculty in other Program Areas may on occasion offer 400- or 500-level courses that are appropriate for the Building Performance Concentration. Courses offered in other units of the University may also address topics in Building Performance. With prior approval, students may fulfill up to 3 credit hours for the Concentration with such coursework. In such cases, the Chair of Building Performance in consultation with the student’s Advisor and after reviewing a formal written request from the student may approve the course for fulfillment of the Concentration. | ||
Students may fulfill up to 3 credit hours for the Concentration with an Independent Study project or projects under the supervision of a faculty member whose primary Program Area affiliation is Building Performance or as approved by the Chair of the Building Performance Program Area. | ||
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Total Hours to earn the Concentration in Building Performance for the M.Arch. | 15 | |
Learning Outcomes
for the Master of Architecture in Architecture, Building Performance Concentration
- Integrate environmental, structural, and enclosure systems in high-performance architectural design.
- Evaluate building and structural performance using analytical, computational, and simulation tools.
- Apply sustainable and climate-responsive design principles for energy and environmental performance.
- Design and assess building-envelope systems for thermal, moisture, durability, and constructability.
- Diagnose structural and building performance issues using principles of building forensics.
- Synthesize architectural, environmental, and structural knowledge through integrative design processes.
Contact Information
for the Master of Architecture in Architecture, Building Performance Concentration
School of Architecture
Director of the School: Francisco Javier Rodríguez-Suárez
Associate Director for Curricular and Academic Programs: Emelie Mies
117 Temple Hoyne Buell Hall, 611 Taft Drive, Champaign, IL 61820
(217) 333-7720
School email: arch-grad@illinois.edu