archie101

Hey, Columbia's GSAPP website states that they only accept people going into their first architectural degree for their MArch program. Meaning BArchs and DArchs can't apply. Does anyone know why this is? I know it wasn't always like this (I know people who got BArchs and then went to Columbia.)

larationalist

odd. I know someone who has a B.Arch that I heard had gone on to Columbia for grad school...

ah, upon checking their website I see that they offer an MS in Advanced Architectural design. The description makes it sound like an M.Arch II that they've just chosen to call something else.

archie101

Yup, looks like you're right and I just missed that. I guess if you already have a professional degree, Columbia wants to train you further without having to prescribe to the NAAB?

rick12

I have that Columbia degree, though it was called the MS in architecture and building design when I was there. I think the MS designation is pretty standard for a post-professional degree. You only typically get one professional degree. When I was there they required two years of professional experience, but most students averaged four to five.

rick

larationalist

it's not just typical, it's part of the definition. There's professional/ first professional, and post-professional, but no "second professional". An M.Arch II is post-professional, and was what seemed to me to be the norm. However the MS Arch is common enough not to be described as an anomoly or anything, just a choice in nomenclature that the school has made.

Archie, a decent program passes the NAAB inspections every time, I'm sure Columbia has no problems with that. I think it's just more common for schools which also offer a PhD track to offer an MS instead of an M.Arch II. At least it makes sense philosophically.

archie101

Thanks for the insight. It's all clear to me now!