The three-year sequence is divided into two periods of study.

The first of these periods is a two-year foundation, known as “Core,” in which students complete six design studios that offer design exercises of increasing scale and complexity. Simultaneously, they take courses in the History and Theory of Architecture; Architectural Programming; Computation; Environmental Design; Representation and Visualization; and Structures; as well as a range of complementary cultural and technical elective courses. This Core period provides students with the foundation and knowledge necessary to clearly articulate strong architectural concepts, and formal and organizational principles informed by factors such as context, materials, and building systems.

The second period of study is the culminating third year, in which students choose from an array of one-year thematically-focused Research Studios, as well as two supplemental Advanced Topic Studios (to be completed in the first two quarters), and several elective courses. Research Studios are led by senior design faculty and are structured around specific contemporary concerns. The three-quarter Research Studio comprises a first quarter of research, a second quarter of hypothesis definition and development, and a final quarter of design resolution. This structure provides students with opportunities to develop and expand particular positions in architecture by rethinking existing problems, establishing new directions, and making well-informed and progressive conjectures that shape the built environment.
 

How to Apply

Applying to the MArch program is an online process via the UCLA Application for Graduate Admission (AGA).

Completing the requirements will take some time, so we strongly recommend logging in to the AGA in advance to familiarize yourself with the site and downloading the documents and forms you will need to complete your application.

You can also download this checklist to make sure you have prepared and submitted all the relevant documents to complete your application.