Architecture Program

Architecture

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A major in architecture provides a strong foundation for a career in the architecture and design industry, equipping you with cutting-edge technical skills and a creative, problem-solving mindset to positively contribute to the built environment.

Architects shape the physical environment to express the values and beliefs of a culture and its people. Simply put, architects design buildings to motivate people. Architecture surrounds us in our daily lives. Look up and be inspired.

The Nebraska Difference

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Only NAAB-accredited program in Nebraska

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74% of licensed architects in the state have a degree from Nebraska’s College of Architecture

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96% job placement rate

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Program Features

Cross-Disciplinary Studios  

Throughout the program, you’ll engage in project-based experiential learning in design studios, which culminates in the fourth year of ‘collaborate’ and ‘integrate’ design studios. In studio, designers express and explore ideas, generate and evaluate alternatives and ultimately make decisions and take action. You don’t have to wait to make a difference. 

Design Research

The core of our academics embraces the complementary and contributory relationship between research and design, with an emphasis on design research as a projective activity. In studio and beyond, you will have numerous opportunities to gain real-world design research experience, including pairing your interests and goals with faculty-led undergraduate research projects. 

Design/Build and Community Assist Studios

Build knowledge, technique and design skills to address problems and enrich communities across Nebraska and beyond. Our Design/Build and Community Assist studios give you firsthand experience with real clients. The Design/Build studios create collaborations that span design and construction, and our Community Assist studios research efforts aimed at combatting issues relevant to our communities.  

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Notable Courses

Structural Fundamentals (ARCH 231)

Introduction to the concept of structure as integral and essential to architectural design. Exposure to basic physical principles and structural systems.

Materials and Assemblies (ARCH 232)

Introduction to materials and assemblies with an emphasis on design implications and contemporary practice.

Architectural History and Theory (ARCH 240/241)

An introductory survey of the history and theory of architecture from Prehistory (ca 35,000 BCE) to the present day.

Architectural Theory (ARCH 341)

Architectural theory, defined as written accounts on what architecture should be and why. Comparison of diverse positions on issues that have persisted through history.

Design Studio: Collaborate (DSGN 410)

This studio fosters a collaborative design research approach to complex problems. Various studios utilize multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary or transdisciplinary teams to explore issues.

Architectural Design: Integrate (ARCH 411)

This studio is a continuation of complex problems related to the integration and consideration of environmental stewardship, technical documentation, accessibility, building envelope systems and more.

Huskers Do Big Things

Internships

  • Project assistant, Blair Freeman Group
  • Architectural intern, DeOld Andersen Architecture
  • Summer intern, Hausmann Construction
  • Design coordinator, HDR
  • Architectural intern, Populous

Careers

  • Architectural designer, Olson Kundig
  • Curatorial operations, nAscent Art New York
  • Senior director of experience design, Mejuri
  • Digital transformation specialist, Proving Ground
  • Designer and strategist, Gensler Seattle
  • Project architect, BVH Architecture

Graduate Schools

  • Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation, Columbia University
  • Master of Architecture, Princeton University
  • Real Estate Development + Design, University of California-Berkeley
  • Master of Architecture, University of Michigan
  • Master of Architecture, University of Pennsylvania

Outside the Classroom

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Academics & Experiential Learning

  • Go beyond textbooks and gain practical, hands-on experience with professionals and community stakeholders in our fourth-year ‘collaborate’ design studios.
  • Work on cross-disciplinary projects that will ignite your passion for architecture and the built environment.
  • Push boundaries and help solve complex problems by collaborating 1-to-1 with faculty on Undergraduate Creative Activities and Research Experience (UCARE) projects.
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Career Preparedness

  • Hone your soft skills and interview talents with career prep workshops that invite industry professionals who will coach you on the dos and don'ts of the interview process.
  • Connect with a network of alumni and professionals to find impactful internships that turn into jobs wherever you want to go.
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Community

  • Get involved in one of our many recognized student organizations affiliated with the college.
  • Live and learn with others who share your career interests in the Responsible Design Learning Community.

Have Questions? We're Here to Help

If you have questions about the Architecture major or navigating the application process, contact us.

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Contact Name
Leslie Gonzalez
Contact Title
Undergraduate Admissions Coordinator & Advisor
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