Master of Architecture/Master of Arts in Design Criticism

University of Illinois Chicago

Master of Architecture (MArch): a three-year professional degree for applicants who have a bachelor's degree in any field. The MArch consists of a studio-centered curriculum supported by required and elective course work in architectural technology and theory. Applicants must have completed a calculus course and a year-long survey in architectural history or art history prior to enrolling in the program. Master of Arts in Design Criticism (MAD-Crit): a two-year program that develops textual and visual argumentation in the areas of architecture, urbanism, landscape, and allied design practices. The MAD-Crit degree program is open to applicants with a bachelor's degree in any field. It is intended for postgraduate students and mid-career professionals who are interested in refocusing on research, writing, and publication. In addition to those with architecture backgrounds, the program is also suitable for those from other fields who are already practicing as critics, journalists, or curators and want to develop expertise in the design areas considered or those who would like a terminal, graduate degree in order to pursue an academic career. Revolving around intensive writing seminars and publication workshops, the MAD-Crit program aims to solicit and expand the audience for design criticism and reposition the significance of design in public discourse.

College of Architecture, Design, and the Arts