Bachelor of Science in Architecture

Student displaying her architecture work

Curriculum 

Wentworth's undergraduate, pre-professional NAAB-based program grants a Bachelor of Science in Architecture (B.S.Arch.) at the end of the four-year (8 semester) sequence of study. The first three semesters provide a broad introduction to the field of architecture and serve as the common core for all concentrations (see below). Lecture courses convey an overview of the discipline (history, theory, technology and practice) while studio courses are based on a model of experiential learning focusing on design fundamentals, graphic skills and a conceptual understanding of building tectonics. The department’s emphasis on both the art and the science of architecture is stressed throughout this introductory curriculum. 

The next five semesters of the Bachelor of Science in Architecture program build on the skills and knowledge of the first three semesters, while introducing students to more complex and varied studio topics. These topics include tectonics, site and environment, comprehensive design and community design. In addition students study topics such as structures, environmental systems and professional practice. Studio content is closely coordinated with co-requisite courses, encouraging students to make connections between subjects and to develop a well-synthesized approach to design. 

Concentrations 

The architecture program at Wentworth offers three areas of concentration that allow students to pursue a particular focus or point of emphasis in their study of architecture. The core architectural education is similar across concentrations, and all achieve the same learning outcomes. Students express their preference of concentrations at the end of their first semester in sophomore year. 

Adaptive Interventions 

This concentration investigates architecture as a discipline with a primary focus is on interventions into contingent existing conditions. Adaptive re-use, regenerative urbanism, sustainability, critical regionalism and related strategies are addressed at scales ranging from the individual building to the urban environment. 

Emerging Technologies 

This concentration explores the material nature of architecture, the craft of building, and the role of emerging technologies as they inform the design process.  It emphasizes the broad architectural and cultural implications of technology, and advances an ethos of research through making. 

Urbanism 

This concentration focuses on the influence of the arts and humanities, ecology and landscape, economics and politics, and society on design at the urban scale.  It challenges students to explore the representation of complex social, cultural and ecological systems as a form of research and offers students the skills and insights necessary to collaborate across disciplinary boundaries and to provide leadership in reshaping our cities.