Overview

The Architecture Studies - Islamic Architecture programme at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a premier graduate course designed to promote the critical study of architecture within the Islamic world. This advanced degree prepares students for professional excellence in research, education, and design by exploring the complex relationship between built environments and cultural history. Students engage with a curriculum that challenges traditional academic boundaries while addressing contemporary global challenges.

Why Architecture Studies - Islamic Architecture at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)?

Established in 1979 through an endowment from His Highness the Aga Khan, this programme is a global leader in its field. It provides students with unparalleled access to the Aga Khan Documentation Centre and Archnet, an extensive open-access digital resource for Muslim societies. The curriculum is uniquely positioned within the Department of Architecture to bridge the gap between general architectural discipline and specialised Islamic research. Furthermore, the programme maintains prestigious links with Harvard University, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, and the Aga Khan Development Network, offering a rich collaborative environment for scholars.

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 focuses on the historiography of Islamic urbanism, heritage conservation, and the impact of mass urbanisation. Modules may include:

History and Historiography of Islamic Architecture
Urbanism in the Contemporary Islamic World
Heritage Issues
Mass Urbanisation and Informal Settlement
Migration and Forced Displacement
Civic Space
History and Theory of Architecture
History and Theory of Art

Careers with Architecture Studies - Islamic Architecture

Graduates from this programme are equipped for diverse roles across the globe, particularly in sectors requiring deep expertise in the built environment of Muslim societies. Many alumni pursue successful careers in academic research, architectural design, and higher education. The programme also prepares students for influential positions in heritage management, urban planning, and international development. Former students have been recognised in major global publications and have secured prestigious fellowships to continue their doctoral research or professional practice in international architectural firms.

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 Area & Cultural Studies Islamic Studies View 308 other Masters in Architecture 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

BArch or BA in architecture or any related field (Art history, planning, landscape, archeology, etc.)

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

Portfolio (not required where a writing sample is more appropriate)

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

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.

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 - Islamic Architecture.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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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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