Mar 28, 2024  
2020-2021 Graduate Catalog 
    
2020-2021 Graduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Architecture, M.Arch.


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Program Overview

The Architecture Program educates aspiring architects to be creative thinkers who pursue architecture as a process of integration. Design, history, theory, culture, sustainability, and the realities of practice are interpreted both within the unique character and dynamics of the Appalachian region as well as within the modern global community.

Typically completed in three semesters, the professional Master of Architecture (M. Arch) degree further focuses on appropriate, responsible, and sustainable design and planning for community revitalization in smaller towns and cities of the region. Students engage in innovative ways of community outreach through design and the ability of architecture to address people at a personal level.

The M.Arch. curriculum consists of 42 semester hours of graduate architecture courses with a prerequisite of a Bachelor of Science in Architecture (composed of 126 semester hours at Fairmont State, of which 58 semester hours are general studies).

The M. Arch. degree prepares students to enter the profession or similar employment at a more advanced level than the BS Arch, seek architectural registration (licensing) in select states, upgrade their professional credentials, and/or pursue an additional graduate degree from a program already accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB).

The M. Arch. degree is currently in candidacy for accreditation and anticipates full accreditation by 2022. The state of West Virginia, as well as many other state jurisdictions, along with the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) recognize degrees from institutions that have been awarded within two years of accreditation.

Program Outcomes

The Master of Architecture Program will:

  • Prepare students to apply critical thinking skills to creatively solve a variety of design problems with respect to culture, context, systems, materials, sustainable principles, and contribute to the development of new knowledge.

  • Demonstrate how architectural history, theory, and practice may inform design decisions in our contemporary global society.

  • Prepare students to make informed, ethical, and responsible contributions to the built environment in a diverse and global society in order to serve the public good.

  • Provide students with the skills and knowledge to engage in the Architectural Experience Program (AXP); work toward professional licensure; and seek employment in architectural offices and in other design and construction related fields.

  • Enable students to assume the role of an architect as a collaborator, communicator, and leader while observing the wide-ranging needs of clients, populations, and communities in a global society.

Admission and Program Requirements

In addition to the Graduate School Admissions Requirements, admission to the Master of Architecture degree program will be determined by the evaluation of the following criteria:

  • Successful completion of a 4-year pre-professional degree in architecture (Bachelor of Science in Architecture or Bachelor of Arts in Architecture). Applicants with a pre-professional degree from an institution other than Fairmont State will be required to submit specific evidence of having satisfied the various NAAB SPC not covered in the Fairmont State Master of Architecture program.

  • Three letters of reference with a minimum of two from undergraduate architecture instructors. The third may be from a professional acquaintance.

  • Portfolio, submitted in hard-copy or as a PDF (not to exceed 15MB), containing examples of the applicant’s architectural design and creative work.

  • One-page essay summarizing the student’s reasons for pursuing the Master of Architecture degree, and more specifically at Fairmont State.

A personal interview may be required as part of the admissions process. This interview will be conducted by faculty in the Architecture program in person, by phone, or via other electronic media.

Program of Study


Recommended Course Sequence


Fall First Year (15 Hrs)


Spring First Year (15 Hrs)


Fall Second Year (12 Hrs)


Contact Information:


Dr. Robert Kelly, PhD, AIA, NCARB
Architecture Program Coordinator
Phone: (304) 367-4640
Email: Robert.Kelly@fairmontstate.edu

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