StudyQA — Master: Architecture — Tsinghua University

Description Contents Requirements Funding

In 2008, the School of Architecture began offering the English Program for Master in Architecture, the first M. Arch. taught in English in China. In the International Assessment on the Academic Program of Architecture in 2010, the school was evaluated as having “High Standing in the World”.

This internatinoal program at Tsinghua combines a critical, academic atmosphere with real-world issues. Based on a theory of reflexive regionalism, the program follows the school’s tradition of integrating a critical understanding of regional conditions with a global, multidisciplinary network environment.

The most important aspect we want to teach our students is to be critical, and think reflective. Students have the option to elect studio topics, often concerning actual projects and design challenges.

In principal the program covers 3 semesters, corresponding to 1,5 years. However, depending on the individual background of the admitted students and the performance of the student in the first year, students have the possibility, and/or the school would advice, to extend for 1 semester, without any additional tuition payments.

Students can also decide to add a 6 months internship in between semester 2 and 3, herewith also extending the program to 2 years.

The curriculum is based on a combination of mandatory intensive, 8-week design studios, and supportive theory courses. Together they provide a comprehensive base for architecture as an integrated discipline that can critically address architecture within contemporary topics of urbanization in China and abroad.
The thesis year then provides the possibility to address a personal fascination within this framework.
In addition to the listed courses below, students are also able to choose any other available graduate level course at Tsinghua University to complement their personal learning objectives, free of charge. We encourage cross-disciplinary exchange to other top-level departments, such as the School of Environment or the School of Management. Courses in English and/or Chinese can be chosen, and this also goes for additional courses within the department of Architecture, including the schools of Landscape, Urban Design and Building Science.

1st Semester (Fall)

Design Studio 1 Topic: Building Design and Design Methodology
Design Studio 2 Topic: Site Architectural Design and Site Development
Design Theory Theory & Practice of Regional Architecture
Architecture History History & Theory of Chinese Architecture
Chinese Language
Chinese Culture

2nd Semester

Design Studio 3 Topic: City Integrated Design/ Eco Cities
Design Studio 4 Topic: Systems Design/ Green Building
Urban Theory Contemporary Urban Planning in China
Green Building Green and Sustainable Building Methods
Architecture and City Visiting Study

3rd Semester

Final Thesis Project, of which: 4 credits in the Thesis Project 2 credits in the Thesis Writing

NB: The Mandatory public courses are not hosted in the School of Architecture, but provided by Tsinghua University's School of Humanities, and are mandatory for all international students, offering a selection of trainings in Chinese language and learning in Chinese history and culture, making a total of 4 credits.

Requirements

Completed Foreigner’s Application Form for Admission to Graduate Programs of Tsinghua University (original and duplicated)
Proof of B. Arch diploma: Copy of the official diploma or certificate, and an official academic record. This material should be sealed in a separate envelope with an authorizing seal across the back flap (original and duplicated)
Portfolio: Those materials that demonstrate the applicant’s competence in design and research. In case of a team effort; please indicate your role clearly. All materials must be printed on A4 paper. Please note that portfolios will not be returned to applicants.
CV (Curriculum Vitae)
Personal statement: A brief introduction of the applicant’s personal history and an explanation of why the applicant is interested in the program
Recommendation letters: Three recommendation letters written by people with direct knowledge of the applicant’s professional and academic potentials. All letters must be sealed in separate envelopes with the recommender’s signature across the sealed back flaps (original and duplicated)