Overview

The Architecture Studies - History, Theory and Criticism of Architecture and Art programme at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) provides a rigorous intellectual environment for the study of architectural and art history. This Master of Science in Architecture Studies (SMArchS) is designed for students with professional backgrounds or those seeking advanced non-professional graduate inquiry. The curriculum bridges the gap between contemporary practice and historical scholarship through a deeply interdisciplinary approach.

Why Architecture Studies - History, Theory and Criticism of Architecture and Art at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)?

Located within the oldest school of architecture in the United States, this programme offers a unique intersection of professional practice and academic scholarship. Students benefit from a permanent faculty that includes both architectural and art historians, a rare feature in architecture schools. The department hosts the HTC Forum Lecture Series and the Aga Khan Lecture Series, alongside the publication of the scholarly journal Thresholds. Furthermore, the programme maintains strong links with the Department of Urban Studies and Planning and resources at Harvard University.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 32155 per semester
National fee: USD 32155 per semester
Local fee: USD 32155 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum emphasises critical methods and historical substance, allowing students to explore research projects relevant to contemporary global issues. Modules may include:

Historiography
Analytical Methodologies
Islamic Architecture and Urbanism
Modern Art and Architecture
Orientalism
Sustainability
Architectural Drawing
Art Installation

Careers with Architecture Studies - History, Theory and Criticism of Architecture and Art

Graduates from this programme are prepared for diverse professional paths within the cultural and built environment sectors. Many alumni pursue careers in historic park management, architectural criticism, and the arts. The degree also serves as a foundation for those intending to enter doctoral studies or teach within architecture schools and universities. Graduates have successfully secured roles in prominent global institutions, contributing to the preservation, interpretation, and development of architectural history and visual culture.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Historiography of Islamic Architecture

Orientalism and Representation

Architecture Design Theory and Methodologies

Contemporary Urbanism Proseminar: Theory and Representation

Urban Design Studio

Building Technology Seminar

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-07 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

100

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Credits

60 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Cambridge, United States

Disciplines

Architecture Design Art History View 203 other Masters in Art History in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

100

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IELTS

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Other requirements

General requirements

A professional degree in Architecture (Master of Architecture or 5-year accredited Bachelor of Architecture) with high academic standing from a recognized institution or BA in architecture or any related field (Art history, planning, landscape, archeology, etc.).

For admission to the SMArchs HTC program, a writing sample of at least 15 pages is required of all applicants and is an important component of the application.

Letters of recommendation (3-4)

Transcripts for all relevant degrees

IELTS or TOEFL score (if English is not your first language)

Curriculum Vitae

Statement of Objectives

$75 application fee

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

64310 USD / year

≈ 64310 USD / year
Out-of-State

64310 USD / year

≈ 64310 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

64310 USD / year

≈ 64310 USD / year

Living costs

Cambridge

United States

1814 - 3756 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

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Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Architecture Studies - History, Theory and Criticism of Architecture and Art.

Available Scholarships

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On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Cambridge

Financing

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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