Bachelor of Arts in Architecture

The undergraduate Architecture program is an intensive regimen of architecture studios and courses in the history and theory of architecture, building technology, digital technology, and professional practice. To become a licensed architect in Kentucky and other states, the graduate must complete a two-year Master of Architecture program, both of which are offered at UK. The School of Architecture at the University of Kentucky has achieved a national reputation for excellence through the commitment of its faculty and the spirit, talent and dedication of its students. The School of Architecture is fully accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). Careers Design Your Future The four-year Bachelor's degree in Architecture qualifies students for careers in architectural offices, building construction, development and public agencies. To become a licensed architect in Kentucky and other states, the graduate must complete a two-year Master of Architecture program. Both degree programs are offered at the University of Kentucky. Career opportunities in Architecture Architect Interior Design Furniture Design Industrial Design Product Design Graphic Design Urban Design Video Game Design & Programming Set Design for Film, TV & Theatre Development Adaptive Reuse Design Consultant Architecture Law Fashion Design Business Strategic Planning & Organization Building Construction Public Agencies What You'll Study The undergraduate architecture program consists of an intensive regimen of architecture studios and courses in the history and theory of architecture, building technology, digital technology, and professional practice. The architecture studio is the foundation of the program. Studios provide a social and curricular framework for the architecture student. Representational skills such as drawing, model making, and computer modeling are practiced rigorously as essential skills for design. In addition to the design studio, students study building technology; materials and structural systems; digital fabrication techniques; the history, theory, and criticism of architecture; and the ethical and professional principles of a successful architecture practice. Students also learn contemporary processes such as prototyping to solve problems, and innovate new solutions. Prototypes, three-dimensional physical models, are created with digital design and fabrication tools and technologies such as CNC milling, 3-D printing, and laser-cutting. Prototypes can be created quickly allowing students to propose solutions; examine results; redefine problems; and propose new solutions. In the School of Architecture, prototyping has come to define a new model of design research in which the focus is not so much on the creation of a final design but rather on the creation of design knowledge itself. A study of building materials begins in first-year studio and evolves into a technical analysis of structural planning and design, materials and methods of construction, and building systems. Environmental controls for buildings are also investigated to provide an understanding of the complex visual, acoustical, and thermal aspects of designed space. Professional and legal aspects of architecture practice are addressed in a series of electives and seminars including issues relating to professional registration, ethics, and social responsibility. Accreditation In the United States, most state registration boards require a degree from an accredited professional degree program as a prerequisite for licensure. The National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), which is the sole agency authorized to accredit U.S.