Architectural Studies BS / Interior Architecture MS

Major: Architectural Studies and Interior Architecture
Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Science (BS) and Master of Science (MS)
Calendar Type: Quarter
Minimum Required Credits: 229.0
Co-op Options: No-Co-op (Five years); One Co-op (Five years)
BS Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code: 04.0803
BS Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code: 25-1031
MS Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code: 15.1301
MS Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code: 27-1025

About the Program

The Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies degree offers an introduction to architecture while affording students the flexibility to customize their studies based on their interest in the realm of design and the built environment. The program encompasses foundation courses in the applied and social sciences, the humanities, and a range of architecture courses to give students an understanding of the discipline. At the heart of the curriculum are the introductory-level design studios where students are challenged to apply their knowledge acquired from the above disciplines to consequential design problems.

As an art, a technical craft, and an ethical practice, architecture is the culturally responsible design and production of buildings that are functional, sustainable, inspiring, and responsive to their physical and social contexts. Students have the opportunity to reinforce their skills in the field by opting to participate in Drexel’s signature co-op program. The accelerated degree gives students the opportunity to work full-time in an architecture or design firm or related fields either locally, nationally, or internationally. The BS in Architectural Studies program prepares students for entry-level employment in architecture and in related fields. This degree is offered as a co-op and a non-co-op option. The degree modality is face-to-face; however, a small number of classes may be offered partially or fully in a virtual format. This allows us to attract talented experts from outside the greater Philadelphia area and provides more flexibility for students on coop or out working in the profession.

The Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies is not NAAB accredited and does not directly prepare for architectural licensure and registration. The pre-professional BS in Architectural Studies degree offers a foundation in the field of architecture as preparation for continued education in a professional NAAB-accredited graduate degree program. It is also the ideal foundation for specialization in other related disciplines such as design research, urban strategies, interior architecture and design, construction management, real estate development, digital media and animation, as well as pursuing an individualized path with coursework in other design disciplines within Westphal College. 

The Interior Architecture program offers a post-professional degree for students with a background in interior design or architecture. The curriculum reinforces design fundamentals; advances technical skills and conceptual approaches; allows for specialization in areas such as, but not limited to health/wellness, making/fabrication, or technology/representation; and culminates in a comprehensive thesis research and design project. Comprised of 45 graduate credits, the program can be completed in 4-6 quarters. Students select from a range of studio, seminar, and elective courses to create a program tailored to their professional interests.

The program is closely affiliated with the graduate MS in Design and the MS in Urban Strategy programs within the Department of Architecture, Design & Urbanism, It provides access to graduate programs across the University. These connections allow students to engage and collaborate with experts from a variety of disciplines, preparing them to take leadership roles in the profession.

Additional Information

For more information, visit the Architecture Program website.

Admission Requirements

BS Architectural Studies:

• 1250+/- SAT scores
• 3.3+/- high school GPA
• Writing Supplement
• Applicants must submit eight to 12 pieces of work in a variety of media that demonstrate a balance of technique and concept. The portfolio should emphasize analog work. Architectural projects are not expected. CAD-based portfolios are discouraged.

Portfolio guidelines for the B.S. in Architectural Studies follow the current Westphal College description. 

MS Interior Architecture

The submission of a design portfolio is required. 

Admission to the program requires a first professional degree from an accredited program in interior design or a non-professional degree in architecture. Applicants with degrees in related fields or unaccredited programs who have professional experience in interior design or architecture will be considered through review of transcript and portfolio.

Applicants who do not meet the admission requirements may be recommended for the MS Interior Architecture & Design program.

Degree Requirements

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INTR 699 consists of several components: a series of sketch problems, design competitions, professional experience and portfolio review. These must be completed during the two + graduate years.

Sample Plan of Study

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Co-op cycles may vary. Students are assigned a co-op cycle (fall/winter, spring/summer, summer-only) based on their co-op program (4-year, 5-year) and major. 

COOP 101 registration is determined by the co-op cycle assigned and may be scheduled in a different term. Select students may be eligible to take COOP 001 in place of COOP 101.