<p>Lori,
to answer your question:
LAC = Liberal Arts College. Miami stresses the Liberal Arts type of education (well-rounded, focused on teaching rather than research, etc.) To me, Miami’s architecture program is a cross between the 5 year bachelors degree programs and a typical LAC type degree. Their 4 year degree leads to a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture. Before sitting for the Architectural exam, their 4 year degree is not enough. In addition to the IDP program of work experience, you must add 2 years in an accredited Masters program (at Miami or elsewhere). However, unlike the Architecture program at Tufts, or Barnard, or Brown for example, Miami’s program is very studio-focused. The first year is general design, but the remaining year studios are concentrated in architecture or interior design, and is quite similar to the format in a 5 year Bachelor’s program, with regard to studio work.</p>
<p>I was surprised to hear that someone from UMich could not get into a graduate program elsewhere, especially because of the general reputation of UMich. However, I don’t know anything about UMich. architecture program. Does UMich not have a 2 year masters degree?</p>