AIArchitect, August 2001 - The Degree Nomenclature Discussion: Time

AIAS

FROM THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTURE STUDENTS
RE: The Degree Nomenclature Discussion
Time

Time should be part of the discussion in terms of the length of one's education in architecture, as well as in consideration of the existing curriculum structure and the need to integrate coursework better. The BArch is the quickest path to licensure, but it may lead to overworked students with limited exposure to essential life skills.

AIAS members have repeatedly reported that their programs do not allow them to graduate on schedule and take free elective courses. This is despite the NAAB requirement that all students who receive an accredited degree in architecture not be required to take more than 60 percent of their classes in professional studies. General studies not among the basic English, science, and math universitywide requirements still tend to be within the architecture department and overlap with "required" elective courses.

The need for more liberal arts education is in addition to the constantly evolving and expanding components of architecture education. Students want more education in:
• The ability to adapt to team-oriented roles in the current marketplace
• Design trends and the economic markets
• Project management
• Communicative and programmatic skills
• Sustainability.

Learning institutions must take steps to prepare graduates for these essential life skills in the ever-changing market. However, many BArch students already feel that their program is very rigorous and bears more similarity to many graduate programs than most bachelor degrees.

An accredited degree, which includes a four-year degree built on a core curriculum of liberal arts classes followed by an advanced degree that includes research and focused study in architecture (the 4+2 or 4+3 models) would provide the flexibility to expand curriculum based on market trends. The 4+2 and 4+3 models simply provide more education opportunities then a five-year BArch or MArch.

The ability to have a life outside architecture school and even outside of the studio itself is a major concern (currently being addressed by the AIAS Studio Culture Task Force) that should be considered when debating the length of an architecture program. Early on, students have noted that many teachers demand they focus all their attention on studio, and that "non-architecture classes are secondary." It is impossible to have a well-rounded education when the studio demands all of a student's time.

Reference

The Degree Nomenclature Discussion Diversity Time Cost Reputation Degree Confusion Emerging trend of converting BArch programs to MArch programs