Architecture: Building Performance, MARCH
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.
Application forms for graduate admission and financial aid may be obtained from the Web site above. Application may be made on-line. Completed applications for the Masters or Doctoral programs must reach the Graduate Programs Office by January 15; students are admitted in the fall semester only. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores are not required for School of Architecture Masters Degree applicants; the GRE is required for all Doctor of Philosophy applicants.
All applicants whose native language is not English must submit Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores. A minimum score of 590 on the paper-based test or 243 on the computer-based test or 96 on the internet-based test is required. The University of Illinois also accepts IELTS (academic exam) score in lieu of TOEFL, with a minimum score of 6.5 and 6.5 in all sub-sections required.
for the Master of Architecture in Architecture, Building Performance Concentration
Students who declare the Concentration must complete a minimum of 21 credit hours of coursework with a focus on building performance.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Architecture Studios | 12 | |
| To 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 | ||
| ARCH 573 | Design: Technology and Performance | 6 |
| ARCH 573 | Design: Technology and Performance | 6 |
If a 573 course is cross-listed as ARCH 575, then it will also satisfy the M.Arch core requirement for one semester of 575. | ||
| 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. | 21 | |
for the Master of Architecture in Architecture, Building Performance Concentration
School of Architecture
Director of the School: Francisco Javier Rodríguez-Suárez
Director of Graduate Studies: David J. Isern
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117 Temple Hoyne Buell Hall, 611 Taft Drive, Champaign, IL 61820
(217) 333-7720
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College of Fine & Applied Arts
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Overview of Grad College Admissions & Requirements