Overview

As the field of architecture transitions from a service-oriented practice to an anticipatory, inquiry-driven discipline, demand for research experience and adaptive thinking is increasing. The curriculum of the Architecture - Metropolitan Design program of the University of Minnesota embraces this shift by reimagining professional practice as a space for innovation, storytelling, and interdisciplinary project work.

We encourage our students to explore and develop their own personal focus. As research is the backbone of this degree, your coursework and projects will be largely self-driven. Through close collaboration with the Minnesota Design Center (MDC), you will also have numerous opportunities to work alongside industry and academic professionals in architecture, law, medicine, geography, economics, and a variety of other fields. Active MDC projects include evaluating space to reduce excess capacity, overhauling congressional procedures for policymaking, designing portable infrastructure, and addressing homeless housing.

Degree Options

Students pursuing a Master of Science degree have three separate degree plans to choose from.

Plan A is more thesis-focused and is considered preparatory for pursuing a PhD.

Plan B is project-based and aimed at career advancement.
Plan C is course-based and a strong option for working professionals.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Theory and Principles of Urban Design

Case Studies in Urban Design

Graduate Architectural Design

Theories and Policies of Development

Community Economic Development

Housing and the Social Environment

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-03 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-01-15 00:00:00

More details

The priority deadline for funding consideration is January 15.

Language

English

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Credits

34 SCH

Plan A, B - 34 credits
Plan C - 30-36 credits

Delivered

On Campus

Disciplines

Architecture Design View 413 other Masters in Design in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

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Student insurance

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items, so make sure your student insurance ticks all the following:

Additional medical costs (i.e. dental)
Repatriation, if something happens to you or your family
Liability
Home contents and baggage
Accidents
Legal aid

We partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

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Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at University of Minnesota and/or in United States, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Other requirements

General requirements

To pursue an MS in architecture a bachelor of arts or science in humanities, sciences, environmental studies, or engineering is required, and a GPA greater than 3.0 is preferred. International applicants must be proficient in English (see language requirements)

We also encourage individuals with professional degrees in architecture and landscape architecture, as well as current M.Arch or MLA students seeking a dual degree, to apply

Complete University of Minnesota Graduate School Application

Unofficial transcripts of all college or university coursework

A statement (up to 1,000 words) outlining specific interests in the metropolitan design area of study

Three letters of recommendation, preferably two written by faculty members who are familiar with your academic work

Portfolio

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores

Application fee of $75

Tuition Fee

To always see correct tuition fees

International

31616 USD/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 31616 USD per year during 24 months.
National

31616 USD/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 31616 USD per year during 24 months.
In-State

31616 USD/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 31616 USD per year during 24 months.

Living costs for Minneapolis

1130 - 2045 USD /month

Living costs

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

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 - Metropolitan Design.

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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