B.S. Arch Studies

BS ARCH STUDIES PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies degree provides a foundation in architecture through intensive studio and technical courses as well as integrated courses and experiences with allied disciplines. We prepare future professionals who are intellectually aware and who critically understand social, political, and global conditions that influence our built environment. The undergraduate degree is designed for those who anticipate continuing their professional education through accredited graduate architecture programs, or who may choose to work in architectural practice under the supervision of a licensed architect and/or in related fields. Students completing the BS Arch Studies degree at WSU have the opportunity to progress directly our NAAB accredited and STEM designated Master of Architecture graduate degree. 

The BS Arch Studies degree program offers a unique architectural education, delivering a comprehensive curriculum in design, history and theory, technology, and practice. Our program is highly integrated, providing students with disciplinary as well as collaborative skills that are needed to succeed in the profession. Architecture students have many opportunities for off-campus experiences via study tours and foreign studies programs. Studio courses, critiques, firm visits, and portfolio reviews held in various locations across the region offer additional exposure to industry professionals and the urban environment.

REQUIREMENTS

Following the admission to WSU procedures, a student may be admitted to the architectural studies major provided they meet the criteria published in the WSU Catalog. Once admitted to a major, a student will maintain good standing in their major by completing the required benchmarks as outlined in the catalog. (Academic Regulation 53).

The BS Arch Studies is a four-year program structured into one year of pre-professional coursework and three years of major (professional) coursework. Professional program courses begin in second year fall. Due to the sequential nature of courses there are no spring admits. To be considered for admission into the architecture program, a student must have completed the following pre-professional coursework (or their approved equivalents), each with a grade of C or better and an overall GPA of 3.3 or higher, and submit an application:

• COM 102 [COMM]
• ENGLISH 101 [WRTG]
• FINE ART 101, 201, or 202 [ARTS]
• HIST 105 [ROOT]
• PSYCH 105 or SOC 101 [SSCI]
• SDC 100, 120, and 140

Students not meeting the admission to major criteria above will be considered until enrollment limits are reached. Average enrollment limit into the second year of the architecture major are 45 students. Greater emphasis is given to performance in SDC 100, 120, and 140. Completion of all pre-professional coursework does not guarantee acceptance into the professional program. Although admission is competitive, all students who meet the minimum requirements are encouraged to apply.

COURSE AVAILABILITY

• SDC 100 is offered in fall and spring.
• SDC 120 is offered in fall.
• SDC 140 is offered in spring.
• SDC 120 (or approved transfer equivalency) with a grade of C or better is a prerequisite for enrollment in SDC 140.
• Please contact an advisor for questions about transfer equivalency and/or preparation necessary for the SDC 120/140 sequence.