Our core curriculum is founded deeply on the study of the arts and sciences, with a gradually intensifying focus on the study of architecture that moves from conceptual design studies (two- and three-dimensional design) to architectural design.
Whether you are pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree or the Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in architecture, the course of study is the same through the 300-level—typically your junior year.
Freshman Year
- Foundation studio in design and drawing
- Explorations of materials, geometry, surface, and detailing
- Design of a small building
- Lecture course taught by the dean, introducing contemporary architectural and environmental issues
- Additional course work in the liberal arts, from WU's 56 departments
Sophomore Year
- Design studios focused on the relationship of architecture to the landscape and to the urban environment
- Lecture course on theoretical foundations of architecture, art, and culture
- Architectural history courses
- Additional course work in the liberal arts
Junior Year
- Intensified design studios exploring construction, structure, landscape, and sustainability
- Advanced drawing and digital representation courses
- Building technology course
- Architectural theory course
- Additional course work in the liberal arts
