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Master of Architecture

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Master of Architecture
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Master of Architecture
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TAKE A TOUR

Shape the Future of Architecture

At NewSchool, the Master of Architecture stands as a beacon of excellence, offering unparalleled educational pathways to both novices holding baccalaureate degrees from various disciplines and seasoned undergraduates from architectural backgrounds.

Proudly positioned as San Diego’s only program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), we enable our students to fast-track their professional journey with the Integrated Path to Architectural License (IPAL). Here, creativity flourishes under the mentorship of our distinguished faculty and through dynamic collaborations with various sectors of San Diego including the ever growing tech and biotech industries. Our strategic location amid rising architectural practices not only fuels inspiration but also fosters invaluable industry connections. The pragmatic approach of engaging students in authentic projects with real clients further refines their skills, making our graduates the top contenders in the job market.

NAAB Accreditation

The only program south of Los Angeles accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB).

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

Student to faculty ratio in studio and major courses

Student scholarships
granted annually

Daniela Deutsch

Dean of Architecture

Format

Full-Time, On-Campus

Duration

2 or 3 years

Total Credits

90 hours (4+2 track)

150 hours (4+3 track)

 

 

 

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Student Projects

Design studios in our Master of Architecture degree program give students extensive opportunities to put their design skills and architectural knowledge into practice. By the time you graduate, you’ll already have a starter portfolio.

Wooden building model of the NMMST Museum in Taiwan designed by a graduate architecture student at NewSchool of Architecture & Design

NMMST Future Extension Hall

By: Karla Suarez

Wooden building model called Craft & Fabrication designed by a graduate architecture student at NewSchool of Architecture & Design

Craft & Fabrication

By: Ryan Craft

Model of a desert school (white one story building and the angle shows the interior of the building) designed by a graduate architecture student at NewSchool of Architecture & Design

Desert School

By: David Heimick

Graduate Architecture Coursework: 4+2 Track

The 2-year (8-quarter) track is for students who hold a four-year bachelor’s degree in architecture or architectural studies. This path builds upon your foundation in architecture and advances your knowledge and skills in order to prepare you for licensure.

Note: If you have a five-year accredited Bachelor of Architecture and are interested in a graduate degree program, consider our Master of Architectural Studies.

Year 1

  • Architecture Theory
  • Environmental Studies
  • Applied Architectural Knowledge
  • Advanced Design Studios

Year 2

  • Research
  • Thesis Studios
  • Topics in Professional Practice
  • Licensure & Portfolio Development
See all courses

Integrated Path to Architectural Licensure (IPAL)

Save time and money by integrating professional experience and licensure examination requirements into your education. View course outline.

Graduate Architecture Coursework: 4+3 Track

The 3-year (12-quarter) track is for students who hold a four-year bachelor’s degree in a non-architecture related discipline. This path teaches students the fundamentals of architecture along with advanced skills and theory in order to prepare you for licensure in architecture.

Year 1

  • Design Fundamentals
  • Architectural Drawing & 3D Modeling
  • Technology & Materials
  • Architectural History

Year 2

  • Architecture Theory
  • Environmental Studies
  • Applied Architectural Knowledge
  • Advanced Design Studios

Year 3

  • Research
  • Thesis Studios
  • Topics in Professional Practice
  • Licensure & Portfolio Development
See all courses

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.

Woman looks at camera and stands in front of architecture plans displayed on a wall behind her.

Career Opportunities

for Master of Architecture graduates

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Alumni Spotlight

What stands out the most about NewSchool is the collaboration and mentorship I experienced with my professors and my classmates. My program was hands-on and taught primarily by adjunct faculty who were actively practicing in the field of architecture outside of the classroom.

Melina Aluwi

Master of Architecture 4+3 '10

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Melina Aluwi, architect and NewSchool of Architecture & Design alum

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

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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

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Paul Freitas, interior architect and NewSchool of Architecture & Design alum

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

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Headshot of Albert Wang, project manager and NewSchool of Architecture & Design alum

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

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Athena Dadiz, project engineer and NewSchool of Architecture & Design alumna

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.

Philip Auchettl, David Loewenstein & Jason Grauten

Master of Architecture '13

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My favorite aspect of attending NewSchool was the intimate and supportive community of faculty, staff, and students.

Kerry Drake

Master of Architecture 4+3 '08

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Headshot of Kerry Drake, architect and planner, and NewSchool of Architecture & Design alum

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Watch Info Session

Meet Our Expert Faculty

Daniela Deutsch

Dean of Architecture

 

Read Bio

me-2.2.24-e1736376560447.jpg (12) (1)

Vuslat Demircay

Professor, Graduate Architecture

 

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Raúl Díaz

Contributing Faculty, Graduate Architecture

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Next Application Deadline!

FALL $1,000 Early Admission Scholarship Deadline on August 1, 2025

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Contact Enrollment

Office Hours

Monday – Friday | 9 AM – 5 PM (Pacific)

Front Desk

(619) 684-8801

Contact Information

enrollment@newschoolarch.edu

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