Architecture

The Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) program at the University of New Mexico is a comprehensive and rigorous degree designed to prepare students for a professional career in architecture. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, emphasizing sustainable design, innovative problem-solving, and cultural context. Throughout the course of study, students are engaged in a diverse curriculum that includes architectural design studios, architectural history and theory, environmental systems, structures, building technology, and digital fabrication. The program fosters a creative learning environment where students develop critical thinking and technical expertise, enabling them to design functional, aesthetically compelling, and environmentally responsible structures.

The Architecture program at UNM encourages students to explore the regional and global implications of their work, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and socially conscious design practices. Under the guidance of experienced faculty members, students undertake a variety of projects that challenge them to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. The curriculum integrates cutting-edge technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), 3D modeling, and sustainable design strategies, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet current industry standards. Additionally, the program offers opportunities for internships, research, and collaborative projects with professionals and community organizations, enriching the educational experience and enhancing employability.

Graduates of the program are prepared to pursue licensure and professional practice in architecture, urban design, and related fields. They are empowered to contribute to the development of sustainable and innovative built environments that serve diverse communities. The university's architecture program emphasizes a holistic approach to education, fostering leadership, ethical responsibility, and lifelong learning. By nurturing creativity and technical competence, UNM's Architecture program strives to produce graduates who will shape the future of the built environment with integrity and expertise.

Master of Architecture, Track 2

This program is for students with a pre-professional undergraduate architecture degree, (typically a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Architecture) and sufficient coursework to fulfill the Path 2 prerequisites.

• 6 architectural design studios, five or six credits each
• 3 architectural history or architectural theory courses
• 1 or 2 courses addressing passive design or environmental systems
• 1 or 2 structures courses, addressing statics, mechanics of materials, structural analysis, and the design and behavior of basic structural elements and systems
• 1 course addressing construction materials and assembly / construction methods

Courses

• Masters Architectural Design I
• Sustainability II
• Systems Integration I
• Pre-Design & Architectural Programming
• Masters Architectural Design II (spring or summer)
• Research Methodology
• Architectural Theory
• Systems Integration II
• Masters Architectural Design III 
• Masters Thesis Prep
• Professional Practice
• Three credits of Masters Project Prep is required if planning on Masters Project in final semester
• Site/Environment
• Masters Architectural Design IV OR
• Masters Project OR
• Masters Thesis
• 3 elective credits* in any graduate level course.
• Architectural History or Theory elective

Track 2 takes four semesters to complete. UNM Bachelors of Arts in Architecture (BAA) students with a minimum grade point average of 3.5 overall and also in studio courses are automatically admitted to Track 2.

Master of Architecture, Track 2.5

This program is for students with a pre-professional undergraduate architecture degree, and sufficient coursework to fulfill the Track 2.5 prerequisites.

• 4 architectural design studios, five or six credits each
• 2 architectural history or architectural theory courses
• 1 course addressing passive design or environmental systems
• 1 structures course, addressing statics, mechanics of materials, structural analysis, and the design and behavior of basic structural elements and systems
• 1 course addressing construction materials and assembly / construction methods

Courses

• Masters Architectural Design I
• Sustainability II
• Systems Integration I
• Pre-Design & Architectural Programming
• Masters Architectural Design II (spring or summer)
• Research Methodology
• Architectural Theory
• Systems Integration II
• Masters Architectural Design III
• Professional Practice
• Site/Environment
• Masters Architectural Design III OR 
• Masters Thesis Prep
• Open Elective or Masters Project Prep or Thesis Prep
• Architectural History or Theory elective
• Masters Architectural Design IV OR 
• Masters Project OR 
• Masters Thesis
• 6 elective credits* in any graduate level course.

Track 2.5 takes two and a half years to complete, or two academic years plus a summer.

Master of Architecture, Track 3

This program is intended for anyone that already holds an undergraduate degree in any discipline, and also for students that have an undergraduate degree in architecture or environmental design, but not enough coursework to apply for Track 2.5 or Track 2 programs. Track 3 program students come from a variety of backgrounds including art history, biology, economics, engineering, political science, etc. 

Courses

• Graduate Architectural Design I
• Introduction to Visualization
• Graduate Architectural Design II
• Architectural Analysis
• World Architecture I
• Architectural Structures I
• Design Visualization ***
• Graduate Architectural Design III
• World Architecture II
• Graduate Construction I
• Architectural Structures II
• Design Visualization ***
• Masters Architectural Design I
• Sustainability II
• Systems Integration I
• Pre-Design & Architectural Programming
• Masters Architectural Design II 
• Research Methodology
• Architectural Theory
• Systems Integration II
• Masters Architectural Design III OR 
• Masters Thesis Prep
• Professional Practice
• Three credits of Masters Project Prep is required if planning on Masters Project in final semester
• Site/Environment
• Architectural History or Theory elective
• Masters Architectural Design IV OR Masters Project OR Masters Thesis
• 9 elective credits* in any graduate level course.

Track 3 takes three academic years to complete, plus a summer program prior to the first year. 

1. Apply to UNM online.
2. The non-refundable $70.00 Application Fee which can be paid online with a Visa or Master credit cards.
3. Letter of Intent (Do not exceed 2 pages).
4. Portfolio of creative work 
5. Three Letters of Recommendation.
6. Resume.
7. One unofficial Transcript from each academic institution previously attended.
8. Course descriptions. Applicants who Have a BA in Architecture, but not from the University of New Mexico must submit course descriptions for all architecture classes completed.  These can be e-mailed to erowe@unm.edu

Sent to the Office of Admissions:
1. One official transcript (unopened) from each academic institution previously attended.
   Office of Admissions
   PO Box 4895
   Albuquerque, NM 87196-4895

International Students also need to submit the following:

• An attested copy of your diploma
• One official transcript from each academic institution previously attended.
• English translation of official transcript
• Official TOEFL scores that must meet the University of New Mexico minimum of 79 on the IB TOEFL or 6.5 on the IELTS.
• Copy of passport

International Admissions
2120 Mesa Vista Hall
MSC06 3850, 1, University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001

Please identify which Master of Architecture Program of Study you are applying to: track 2, track 2.5, or track 3.

Note: GRE scores are not required.

Scholarships

• The Alpha Rho Chi Medal from the National Professional Fraternity for Architecture and the Allied Arts recognizes graduating seniors who excel academically and in service to their respective programs. 
• The AIA Henry Adams Medal from the American Institute of Architects is awarded to the “top-ranking” graduating student for “general excellence” throughout the course of his or her architectural studies in a first professional degree program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB).
• The AIA Henry Adams Certificate of Merit from the American Institute of Architects is awarded to the “second-ranking” graduating student for “general excellence” throughout the course of his or her architectural studies in a first professional degree program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB).

The University of New Mexico offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Architecture through its School of Architecture and Planning. The undergraduate architecture program is designed to introduce students to the fundamental principles of architecture, fostering creativity, technical skills, and critical thinking. Students will explore various aspects of architectural design, building technology, history, and theory, preparing them for professional practice or graduate study. The curriculum emphasizes sustainable design practices, cultural context, and innovative solutions to contemporary architectural challenges. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, digital fabrication studios, and computer-aided design resources, enabling practical learning experiences. The program encourages community engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration, aligning architectural concepts with social, environmental, and technological considerations. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue licensure and careers in architecture, urban design, landscape architecture, or continue their education in graduate programs. The university's location and partnerships provide students with opportunities for internships, research projects, and exposure to diverse architectural environments. Faculty members are experienced practitioners and researchers dedicated to mentoring students through hands-on projects, competitions, and real-world experiences. The program emphasizes ethics, sustainability, and innovation, preparing students to become leaders in the field of architecture.