BS in Architectural Studies

The BS in Architectural Studies teaches students the rigorous design methods of architecture while also offering a flexible curriculum focused on key contemporary topics. After a common sequence of design, history, and technology courses students choose one of the three tracks within the major: Sustainability, Design & Culture, and Real Estate Development & Design. Specialized courses in each of these tracks supplement a rich array of electives in the School of Architecture and throughout the University. In all 3 tracks students will emerge with a strong portfolio, a foundational grounding in architectural design, and will be well-equipped for further graduate education or work experience in design-related fields and creative industries. The BS in Architectural Studies can be completed in four years, and students are eligible for the two-year Master of Architecture program at Northeastern. Students in this major participate in one six-month co-op, and have the option of a second four-month summer co-op. Students also have the option to study abroad in Berlin for a semester. Sustainability Track: Students in the Sustainability Track learn about the issues and practices of architectural design as it relates to natural systems; they explore building technologies and systems, design principles, and key historical and theoretical texts. This program prepares students for careers related to sustainability in the built environment: for example, working with the LEED process in building design, in environmental policy with government or non-governmental organizations, or within the business realm by greening operations or developing new products or services. Graduates of this track have many options for further study at the graduate level including the increasing number of Master of Sustainable Design programs around country, or Northeastern’s own Masters of Science in Sustainable Building Systems. Design & Culture Track: Students in the Design & Culture Track learn about the unique ways in which architects and designers frame problems and propose solutions and how this related to culture more broadly. Students learn key principles of design thinking, including a detailed understanding of the “designer’s toolkit” and its application in other disciplines. Students learn to think critically about architecture, design, and culture; to ask questions and develop their own perspectives on the production of architecture and design; and to apply design thinking in different scenarios and situations. This program prepares students for the increasing number of careers that utilized design thinking and innovation principles, as well as with cultural institutions or media outlets. Graduates of this track have many options for further graduate study; including a Master of Architecture degree or other graduate degrees related to Design, Media, or Cultural studies. Real Estate Development & Design track: Students in the Real Estate Development & Design track learn the key principles of Real Estate Development as they relate to the design profession. Students learn about property types, terminology, and core concepts in the real estate industry, develop a set of analytical tools and techniques for evaluating real estate investment and development, and explore innovation and entrepreneurship in real estate development and design practice. This program prepares students for careers in the real estate sector, with firms that undertake real estate developments as in-house designers/architects and/or as project managers, or for local and regional governments. Graduates of this track also have many options for further graduate study, including a Master of Architecture Degree or graduate degrees in Business, Urban Planning, or Public Policy/Administration.