Master of Architectural Studies

Master Your Craft, Become an Architecture Visionary

The Master of Architectural Studies at NewSchool is a distinctive program designed for those who aspire to elevate their architectural acumen through intensive study and studio work. This one-year master’s program is a deep dive into the nuances of architectural design, enriching students’ foundational art and design knowledge with advanced thesis-based learning. It is an intellectual journey through the realms of history and theory, tectonics, and urban design, culminating in a significant thesis or innovative design project.

Tailored for holders of a 5-year Bachelor of Architecture degree, this program extends their design education, providing an arena to challenge conventional thinking and push the boundaries of professional practice.

Note: The National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) does not recognize and/or accredit Master of Architectural Studies degrees.

NewSchool graduates land industry-related jobs within 6 months (2024)

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Student to faculty ratio in studio and major courses

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Student scholarships
granted annually

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Student Projects

Students in our architectural studies master’s program put theory into practice in thesis studio courses. You can also use this studio time to further explore your concentration in urban, sustainable, or interior design.

Resort

By: Terrence Young

Top half of the photo shows a poster of renderings for a coworking building design. The bottom half shows two models of the coworking space designed by a graduate architecture student at NewSchool of Architecture & Design

The Sound of Coworking

By: Roy Marshall

Model of a the NSMMT Museum in Taiwan designed by a master's student from NewSchool of Architecture & Design

NMMST Museum in Taiwan

By: Jinqian Hu

Architectural Studies Coursework

NewSchool’s Master of Architectural Studies teaches students advanced concepts in architecture and culminates in a thesis or innovative design project. In addition to a core curriculum, you’ll select a concentration to tailor your program and deepen your knowledge in a specialty area.

Year 1

Research
Thesis Studios
Concentration Topics
Licensure & Portfolio Development

Concentrations (pick one)

Urban Design & Development
Sustainable Design & Technology
Interior Architecture & Design

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Why Choose NewSchool?

Hands-On Experience

Dive into real-world projects from day one and make connections with both local and international architecture firms.

Expert Faculty

Learn from world-renowned architects and educators who are as passionate about teaching as they are about architecture.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Utilize the latest Artificial Intelligence (AI) and 3D technology at our urban campus in the heart of San Diego’s design district.

A man wearing glasses balances a wooden building model on a stack of books

Career Opportunities

for Master of Architectural Studies graduates

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Alumni Spotlight

I needed to make a living and be able to work during the day and attend classes in the evenings. It was almost like NewSchool was made for me.

Jennifer Pruitt

Bachelor & Master of Architecture '96

My time as a student consolidated my passion for architecture, a passion which I am continually trying to nurture. The foundation I received at NewSchool, through the teachers and friends I met there, as well as the learning environment we were surrounded with, kept me true to my passion.

Jorge A. Zapata

Bachelor of Architecture '95

Jorge Zapata, Diad Architecture Co-founder and NewSchool of Architecture & Design alum

I wanted a chance to turn raw spaces into sustainable and unique rooms. I believe interior architecture isn't just about being creative, it also applies psychological and technical skills.

Paul Freitas

Bachelor of Interior Architecture & Design '20

NewSchool taught me how to be critical and how to approach problems and design challenges. They introduced me to processes of problem-solving that engage both theoretical positions and very technical methodologies.

Albert Wang

Project Manager, WJW Architecture

When I visited the school, I was hooked when I saw the studios filled with students making architectural models! Hands down the faculty are the best. George Welch and the rest of the faculty are amazing.

Athena Dadiz

Project Engineer, Swinerton Builders

We believe Quartyard can serve as a model for cities across the U.S. looking for unique economic development ideas,” said NewSchool alumnus and CEO of RAD Lab, Philip Auchettl. “It is a feasible way to temporarily re-invent empty spaces while improving quality of life for residents.