APPLYING FOR M.ARCH-PREPARATION FOR ADMISSION

Accredited by the New York State Board of Regents in 1990 and by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) in 1994, Parsons' Architecture Program offers two professional degree options.

M.Arch I (First Professional Degree)

Students with a four-year undergraduate degree in a non-architecture major pursue a three-year (106-credit) course of study leading to a First Professional Degree. Prior to entry in the three-year program, these students are required to take one college-level course in calculus and one in physics, and at least one course in the History of Architecture. It is also required that students without a design background prepare by taking the Parsons Summer Intensive Studio in Architectural Drawing and Modeling or an equivalent course elsewhere.

M.Arch II (Post-Professional Degree)

Students that already hold a B.Arch First Professional degree, or a foreign equivalent, typically enroll in the one and a half-year Post Professional degree program (54 credits), a flexible course of study that allows each student to custom design his/her coursework to suit academic interests. This course of study begins in the Spring Semester and continues for three semesters, allowing students to take advantage of the Design Workshop studio and the chance to spend a summer in New York between years of study.

NAAB Statement of Professional Accreditation

In the United States, most state registration boards require a degree
from an accredited professional degree program as a prerequisite for
licensure. The National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), which is the sole agency authorized to accredit U.S. professional degree programs in architecture, recognizes three types of degrees: the Bachelor of Architecture, the Master of Architecture, and the Doctor of Architecture. A program may be granted a 6-year, 3-year, or 2-year term of accreditation, depending on the extent of its conformance with established educational standards.

Master¹s degree programs may consist of a preprofessional
undergraduate degree and a professional graduate degree that, when
earned sequentially, constitute an accredited professional education.
However, the preprofessional degree is not, by itself, recognized as an accredited degree.

Architecture FAQ

1. If I don't have an architecture background, can I apply for the Masters in Arch program?

Yes. As long as you have an undergraduate degree, you are eligible to apply.

2. How much is tuition?

Click the here for a breakdown of estimated college costs. From there you can also access the tuition costs of Parsons for 2005-2006.

3. What is the fixed score for the TOEFL?

A TOEFL score of 580 (237 computerized) or better is required.

4. Do you have a fixed score for GRE?

No. We use it as one resource of many to determine whether a student will fit into the program.

5. What is your school code for the GRE and TOEFL?

The code is 2638 for both exams.

6. Where do I send my materials?

You can call the Admission office at 212-229-8989 and verify the mailing address.

7. Is there a form for letters of recommendation?

No. There is no fixed form. Any letter form should be fine. Please send it along with the application. Writers of your letter of recommendation may be employers or former professors, but no family members.

8. How many pages do I have to have in my portfolio?

The portfolio should not exceed 9" x 12". Your portfolio is a visual
representation of your background, talents and abilities. The content of the portfolio will be reviewed with an understanding of the applicant's background. It can include the following:

-architectural drawings, models and renderings (minimize use of
architectural technical drawings)

-freehand drawing (architecture, human figure, still life)

-3dimensional work (sculpture, installations, fabrications)

-2dimnsional design and art work (painting, printmaking, graphic design, web design)

-photography (not snapshots)

Slides, Films and videos will not be reviewed. Presentation, layout and design of the pages of your portfolio should also be carefully considered, however, do not include excessive packaging. There's no fixed amount of pages that must be included.

9. Can I have my portfolio reviewed before submitting my application?

No. Reviewing an applicant's portfolio gives them an unfair advantage over other applicants. Otherwise, we are happy to answer any questions about our academic programs.

10. Can I be in a part-time program if I am enrolled in the Master of Arch program?

No, it is a full-time program. Classes are held Monday-Friday, in the morning, afternoon and evening.

11. Can I come for a tour?

A. For a general tour, contact admissions office and make an appointment at 212-229-8989.

B. For a departmental tour, please call our office at 212-229-8955x.2912 and make an appointment for an upcoming Friday. Applicants may also come during final reviews. Please call our office if you are interested.