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Best Architecture Masters Programs in California
4 universities in California, CA offer master's degree in Architecture

The department offers an accredited professional Master of Architecture (MArch), a post-professional Master of Advanced Architectural Design (MAAD), Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees.
The Master of Architecture program is designed to provide students seeking their first accredited professional degree with a comprehensive and challenging education leading to the practice of architecture. Graduate students have the flexibility to choose a variety of paths within a two-to-three-year rigorous program, depending upon previous education and experience. The placement into the program (two year or three year) will be decided by the Master of Architecture Committee upon reviewing the application.
STUDIO ONE is a one-year post-professional design studio intended for those who have a professional (Bachelor or Master of Architecture) degree, and who wish to continue to explore current design issues in a stimulating, rigorous, and experimental studio setting. Students who complete the program will receive a non-accredited Master of Advanced Architectural Design degree. The two-semester studio course is at the core of the program and is integrated with required seminars, lectures, and workshops in design theory, history, urbanism, digital applications, and building technology.
This researched-based, non-professional degree program offers the opportunity for advanced research in specialized areas within the increasingly complex subfields within architecture, preparing students for a range of careers.
This advanced research-based degree prepares students with outstanding academic records for careers in teaching and scholarship in architecture and its related areas, or in roles in government or private companies and organizations that require specialization and experience in research. The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach of both depth and breadth as part of the students formal coursework and original research.
- GRE Required: Yes
- Research Assistantships: 1754
- Teaching Assistantships: 3621
- Financial Aid:

The M.Arch is a three-year, NAAB-accredited program that leads to a Master of Architecture degree.
The M.Arch. curriculum prepares students for the practice of architecture by providing a focused framing of today’s cultural, ecological, political, and technological questions with a view to what architects may bring to bear on such complex issues. At each stage of the curriculum, students become equipped to not only lead the professional field but also to construct new opportunities for it by positioning their design skills within a rapidly changing world.
The program is eligible for the STEM OPT Extension for F-1 visa holders.
Masters in Architecture
- GRE Required: Yes
- Research Assistantships: 1599
- Teaching Assistantships: 2735
- Financial Aid:

Get Involved Events Calendar Research Labs, Groups Initiatives Student Groups Global Opportunities Traveling Fellowships Scholarships Architectural Guild Membership.
News, Events Media News Events Architecture Engaged In the News Mailing List Press Room Publications Virtual Exhibitions Student Culture Student Spotlight Student Work.
Mailing List Signup Stay connected with USC Architecture after graduation by signing up for our mailing list.
Stay connected with USC Architecture after graduation by signing up for our mailing list.
Students Get Involved Events Calendar Research Labs, Groups Initiatives Student Groups Global Opportunities Traveling Fellowships Scholarships Architectural Guild Membership Student Resources Advisement Academic Services Resources Portal Digital Fabrication Facilities Fabrication Jobs Board Request D-Clearance Student Emergency Fund Announcements.
Graduate Programs Master of Architecture Master of Advanced Architectural Research Studies Master of Building Science Master of Heritage Conservation Master of Landscape Architecture + Urbanism Dual Degree Programs Graduate Certificates.
USC School of Architecture
- GRE Required: Yes
- Research Assistantships: 1324
- Teaching Assistantships: 676
- Financial Aid:
188 universities offer the Master's program in Architecture.
Which one best suits your need?

Master of Advanced Studies in Architecture-based Systems Engineering Leadership.
Master of Advanced Studies in Architecture-based Systems Engineering Leadership Cost of Attendance for 2023-2024.
These figures may not be final. Actual tuition, fees, and charges are subject to change by the Regents of the University of California or, as authorized, by the President of the University of California. Accordingly, final approved levels and charges may differ from the amounts shown.
This program is undergoing a name change to Master of Advanced Studies in Convergent Systems Engineering. Your actual costs may differ.
the Architecture-based Enterprise Systems Engineering Leadership Program (AESE): 2023-2024 AESE Calendar Schedule.
Academic Year ( weeks) and Summer 2024 (10 weeks).
Academic Year and Summer Tuition and Fees(View Components).
UC Per Unit Program Academic Year Costs: $32,175.
UC Systemwide Student Services Academic Year Fee: $1,206.
UC San Diego Campus-based Academic Year Fees: $1,071.
MAS-AESE Basic Cost of Attendance Totals for CA and Non-California Residents.
The Cost of Attendance (COA) for the academic year includes the annual UC Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) of $4,410. on use UC SHIP or waive UC SHIP.
Non-California resident and international students are not charged a Non-Resident Supplemental Tuition cost. Non-California residents will be considered for Federal Direct Loans only. International students will also be billed a one-time International Student Visa Administration fee of $100. International students may apply for Private Education Loans to assist with educational costs.
The MAS-AESE MAS Convergent Systems Engineering (Full-Time, 1-Year Pace) California and Non-California Resident Basic Budget Total is $68,124. Students enrolled in the MAS-AESE Program are not charged Non-CA Resident Supplemental Tuition.
The MAS-AESE MAS Convergent Systems Engineering Program California Resident Basic Budget Total is, and the Non-California Resident Basic Budget Total is based on the criteria in footnote #7.
A student living on-campus or living with a parent will have a different COA and can refer to the graduate student cost of attendance budgets for the various components and costs Graduate Students Cost of Attendance (ucsd.edu).
MAS-AESE MAS Convergent Systems Engineering new students entering Fall 2023 pay $825 per credit unit. The academic year is based on 13 credit units Fall term, 13 credit units Winter term, 13 credit units Spring term and 3 credit units Summer term. The 12-month MAS-AESE program requires 42 units for completion.
Students may submit Cost of Attendance Add-On forms with appropriate documentation for rent and utilities, transportation costs, computer purchases and or increased books and supplies. Submission of a request does not guarantee an approval.
Private Education Loans are available for domestic and international students. Your Major Department and or the Graduate Division may provide other forms of . Master of Advanced Studies in Architecture-based Enterprise Systems Engineering Leadership costs and financing. You may be required to complete and submit the FAFSA to be considered for some types of graduate awards. FAFSAs are available beginning October 1st every year.
Students who are unable to complete the FAFSA and or California Dream Act Application or who are enrolled in less than half-time (6 units), may be able to apply for a private loan. Private Education Loans are available for domestic and international students.
Use this tool to see how much financial aid you may be eligible to receive for in the 2024-25 academic year.
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Arch program locates the work of architecture at the intersection of disciplinary principles and professional competency. Ideas become impactful when translated into material conditions. The messy process of translation often results in imperfect but meaningful design proposals that address challenges of contemporary life. Embracing the compromise between ideal and real underscores our commitment to the here and now.
Master of Architecture is a STEM program.
Discover how Woodbury is exploring new technologies to rethink the future of architecture and push the boundaries of design.
All architecture and interior design programs at Woodbury have been designated as STEM degrees. Starting in the fall of 2020, students enrolling in the following programs will graduate with STEM-designated degrees:.
Master of ArchitectureMaster of Science in ArchitectureMaster of Interior DesignBachelor of ArchitectureBachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design.
All international students enrolled in these programs can now apply for a 24-month extension of their post-completion OPT (Optional Practice Training) for a total of 36 months.
Four courses can be taken from the Interior Design program as electives in the MArch program to expand an understanding of human experience and interaction with space. Find out the courses through our Interior Design Emphasis page.
Woodbury School of Architecture supports our students in building a strong foundation for professional practice while investigating the nature of practice itself. These experiences prepare students to make informed choices regarding their diverse career options.
Woodbury University alumnus Henry Cheung graduated from the Master of Architecture program (MArch) in 2013.
NAAB: The MArch program at Woodbury School of Architecture is NAAB accredited.
The Woodbury University Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) and Master of Architecture (MArch) degree programs are accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) and prepare students for Architectural Licensure in California.
However, students who wish to practice Architecture in a location outside of California may have additional non-educational requirements, such as exams and internship hours, that individual state licensing boards may require.
The California Architects Board is the licensing authority for California. Among the non-educational requirements, a candidate must complete to receive a California license are the Architectural Experience Program (AXP) and the Architect Registration Examination (ARE).
Master of Architecture
- GRE Required:
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The Master of Interior Architecture is the highest degree offered by the Institute. The curriculum is an advanced level of learning promoting a higher standard of academia than the Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design Degree. It is consistent with the goals, objectives and mission of the college. The Master’s Degree advances research and analytical skills, independent and critical thinking and promotes the graduate’s contribution to the field of interior design. Prospective students must be proficient in AutoCAD, Photoshop and 3D CAD. The Master’s Degree is scheduled on a quarter system and takes 12-15 months to complete. Upon completion with a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better and a 2.0 or better is required for each individual Master’s Level course and the student must be granted Candidacy to the MIA Degree from the Graduate Committee and the student must have fulfilled their financial obligations with idi, in order for the student to receive a MIA. All of these criteria must be met before the student receives a MIA.
The Master’s Degree in only one year at the most prestigious nationally accredited design college. Geared for the working professional, The Master of Interior Architecture is a part-time, in-class only program that meets Monday and Thursday evenings. Class size is small and enrollment is limited.The program is both challenging and rewarding.
The Master’s Degree has a total of 45 quarter units. The clock hour conversion formula is one quarter credit hour for each ten (10) hours of classroom time plus twenty (20) hours of outside preparation or the equivalent; or for not fewer than thirty (30) hours of externship, shop instruction (contact hours) or the equivalent. Courses or course requirements may be changed at any time by Interior Designers Institute, however, the number of credit units required for graduation will be the same as stated in the catalog upon enrollment.
Master of Interior Architecture
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Create architecture that harnesses material experimentation, new technology, and social innovation to transform the world.
The Master of Architecture (MArch) is a NAAB-accredited professional degree program with STEM designation. Uniquely focused on ecological engagement, urban research and activism, and digital fabrication, the MArch program prepares you to connect advanced architectural design with professional practice.
We partner with prominent Bay Area architectural practices, cutting-edge technology firms, research institutes, community organizations, and activists to tackle real-world issues such as rising sea levels, the housing crisis, and urban resilience. Our position within a top art and design college gives you direct access to intellectuals, researchers, and diverse practitioners who are actively working to transform the way we conceive, construct, and experience the built environment.
Our program emphasizes research in four areas, each linked to a lab that sponsors advanced courses, projects, programming, and exhibitions. While distinct in focus, the labs frequently collaborate on interdisciplinary initiatives. As a graduate student, you will have the opportunity to work closely with one or of the labs:.
History Theory Experiments (HTX) is a platform for advanced interdisciplinary research and critical engagement in architecture that explores alternative modes of historical practice, discourse, and spatial activism.
The Architectural Ecologies Lab promotes collaborative research between designers, scientists, and manufacturers to address ecological challenges such as sea level rise, habitat restoration, and climate adaptation.
Experiment with cutting-edge tools to realize your architectural ideas.
Study abroad student pose in front of a pink wall.
Extend your studies with internships, study abroad, and summer studios.
Our internship program connects you with renowned Bay Area architecture firms, helping students gain first-hand experience in the field, as well as a head start in securing employment after graduation.
Each summer, Architecture students have the opportunity to study abroad. Recent travel studios have focused on topics ranging from the integration of traditional craft practices and contemporary architectural techniques in Mexico City to experimental domestic architecture in Tokyo.
Irene Cheng is an architectural historian, critic, and educator whose work explores the relationship of architecture to culture, politics, and society. Recent books include The Shape of Utopi The Architecture of Radical Reform in Nineteenth-Century America, Race and Modern Architecture: A Critical History from the Enlightenment to the Present, and The State of Architecture at the Beginning of the 21st Century. Cheng is also a founding principal of Cheng+Snyder, a multidisciplinary design practice that seeks to instigate critical debates architecture, politics, and the city.
A comprehensive course of study tailored to your ambitions.
The MArch program is a three-year, NAAB-accredited degree program with STEM designation.
Your studio work is supported by a coordinated sequence of courses in design media, history and theory, building technology, and professional practice.
The Master of Architecture program has an impressive track record of alumni who launch award-winning design practices, work with international architecture offices, and lead the design of iconic public buildings. Trained in both pragmatic skills and the ability to broadly speculate, they find opportunities to practice architecture at many scales, throughout the world.
Architecture students explore how California high-speed rail can connect communities.
Five CCA Architecture and Interior Design students named among the top 100 in North America.
Partial advanced standing may also be granted. Admission and placement decisions are based on the strength of your overall application, portfolio, and transcripts.
Students who have already taken graduate courses are encouraged to submit those transcripts, too. For international applicants, all transcripts must be in English or accompanied by a certified English translation.
Candidates without an architectural background should use the portfolio to demonstrate their potential in one or of the following areas: visual and spatial sensibilities, visual and material explorations, and synthetic conceptual thinking.
Candidates for advanced standing should demonstrate clear evidence of their architectural education and level of ability. In addition to academic and professional work, candidates are encouraged to submit examples of personal work as well.
Integration of artistic, critical, and material approaches to architecture.
Contemporary investigations of culture, media, technology, and their relationship to architectural production.
- GRE Required:
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Grand Opening of Student Success Centers on Thursday, March 17.
Walt Jacobs, Ph.D., named Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs.
Cal State East Bay to return to scheduled course delivery Monday, Jan.
I am pleased to announce that this Thursday, March 17 during U-Hour, we will open and dedicate these Hayward campus centers at a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by open houses at eachofthesites. These events are open to all please register in advance.
- GRE Required:
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What kind of scholarships are available for Graduate Programs in Architecture?
We have 4 scholarships awarding up to $12,500 for Masters program in for Architecture, targeting diverse candidates and not restricted to state or school-based programs.
Scholarship name | Amount | Credibility |
---|---|---|
AIA Chicago Foundation Diversity Scholarship | $5,000 | High |
Residential Design Scholarship | $2,500 | Medium |
Houzz Construction Management Scholarship | $2,500 | Medium |
Houzz Sustainable Residential Design Scholarship | $2,500 | Medium |
Find scholarships and financial aid for Architecture graduate programs
How can I compare the Architecture Graduate Programs?
Compare the GRE score requirements, admission details, credit requirements and tuition for the Master's Program, from 188 universities offering Graduate School Programs in Architecture. Compare Graduate School Programs in Architecture
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