The mission of the Architecture Program is to critically investigate the architectural systems and social forces that define sustainable built environments both locally and globally, while honoring cultural identities through teaching, research and practice.
The pre-professional and professional program in architecture prepares students for a range of roles as architects engaged in shaping the physical environment who encourage the creation of beautiful, responsive and adaptive architecture.
The program requires courses in architectural and urban design; architectural history, theory and criticism; and technology, community and practice. Electives in architecture and related fields are available in a curriculum that is rigorous and challenging.
History has proven that students who dedicate themselves fully to academics during their short time at the University not only achieve academic excellence, but excel later in their professional careers. The Faculty of the architecture program, therefore, strongly recommends that each student refrain from outside employment during the semester to optimize their educational experience at this critical developmental stage. Full-time students engaged in external employment are expected to notify the Program Director in writing of these arrangements.
Students enrolled with a full-time academic load (15–17 credit hours undergraduate; 12–16 credit hours graduate) are expected to focus their attention on their academic course and related extracurricular activities during the academic term. Students who desire or need to work more than 10 hours per week are expected to take an appropriate and proportional reduction in course load.
In the United States, most state architecture registration boards require an accredited professional degree 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.
Master’s 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.
The practice of architecture is regulated by the individual states and the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards. Licensure for architects in New Mexico requires:
Student work, submitted to the School in satisfaction of course or degree requirements, becomes the physical property of the School. The School also has the right to display such work in any medium or format. This work may include papers, drawings, models, electronic records, and other materials. However, students retain all other rights to the intellectual property of such work. The School assumes no responsibility for safeguarding such materials. At its discretion, the School may retain these materials for instructional, recruitment, exhibition and accreditation purposes, return or discard such materials. The School does not normally discard the materials of currently enrolled students.
Courses
ARCH 109.
Design Fundamentals.
(3)
Studio/lecture introduces fundamental principles and processes of two-, three-, and four-dimensional design. Methods of perception, technique, composition, evaluation of materials and methods, critical evaluation and graphic representation are studied through both abstract and representational assignments.
ARCH 111.
Introduction to Architectural Graphics.
(3)
Laboratory, lectures, and exercises to learn graphic representation methods. Emphasis is on the use of drawing to record and communicate architectural topics.
ARCH 121.
Introduction to Architecture.
(3)
Lectures and exercises introduce architecture, design, and the creative process through an analysis of their social, historical, and technical determinants. Emphasis on 20th and 21st century architecture with an introduction to the profession and sustainability. Meets New Mexico Lower-Division General Education Common Core Curriculum Area V: Humanities and Fine Arts.
ARCH 201.
Architectural Design I.
(5 [4])
Studio analyzing landscape and site through mapping, diagramming, narrative, photography, digital and physical modeling and sectional studies. The relationship between the building program and the context is studied through a series of small building projects.
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A.
ARCH 202.
Architectural Design II.
(5 [4])
Studio introduces principles of urban design and planning through an exploration of a series of multi-scaled architectural projects that examine public goals and constraints, urban infrastructure and fabric, sustainability, historical and socio-cultural issues.
Prerequisite: 201.
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A.
ARCH 211.
Architectural Communications I.
(2 to a maximum of 4 Δ)
This two term lecture/lab introduces architectural representation emphasizing digital visualization, representation and modeling to represent building systems, capture spatial concepts, and analyze the contexts of buildings. This course introduces use of the fabrication lab.
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A.
ARCH 221.
Architecture and Context.
(3)
Combined lecture and lab course that introduces historical and contemporary concepts of architectural context, and develops verbal and graphic skills for analyzing architecture as a practice of place-making.
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A.
ARCH 241.
Sustainability I.
(3)
Lectures present the framework for creative analysis, including systems thinking and synergistic integration of the three pillars of sustainability, environments, equity, and economy, and their relationship to building systems.
ARCH 301.
Architectural Design III [Design Studio III].
(5 [4])
Studio investigates issues of private space and ownership emphasizing spatial, programmatic, typological and tectonic architectural issues. Small to medium scale projects range from domestic spaces to commercial environments with a focus on hybrid architectural conditions.
Prerequisite: 201 and 202 and 211 and 221 and 241 with minimum grades of C+.
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A.
ARCH 302.
Architectural Design IV [Design Studio IV].
(5 [4] )
Studio investigates public space. Projects range from public open space, to public housing, to public institutions. The studio emphasizes mid-size buildings in urban contexts and human factors, universal design, politicized programs, programming and space.
Prerequisite: 201 and 202 and 211 and 221 and 241 with minimum grades of C+.
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A.
ARCH 311.
Architectural Communication II.
(2 to a maximum of 4 Δ)
In this two-term lecture/lab course students use narrative, written, and oral communication in the expression of architectural theories, processes, and positions. Readings and precedent studies help shape discussions about architectural theses.
ARCH 321 / 523.
World Architecture I: History of the Built Environment From Prehistory to 1400 CE.
(3)
(Also offered as ARTH 323 / 567)
Lecture survey of the architectural and urban traditions of ancient and indigenous cultures from prehistory to the late middle ages.
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A. or B.A. ARTH.
ARCH 322 / 524.
World Architecture II: History of the Built Environment From 1400 CE to the Present.
(3)
(Also offered as ARTH 324 / 568)
Survey of the architectural and urban traditions of the modern world from the renaissance to the present.
Prerequisite: 221.
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A. or B.F.A.
ARCH 331.
Construction I.
(3)
Lab and lectures, introduction of technological aspects of building design and construction.
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A.
ARCH 332 / 532.
Structures I.
(3)
Lectures present principles of mechanics, equilibrium conditions, properties of structural materials, structural properties of areas, shear and moment, flexural stresses, shearing stresses, deflection, trusses and funicular structures.
Prerequisite: 202 and 211 and (MATH 180 or 162).
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A. or B.S. in Construction Management.
ARCH 342 / 542.
Architectural Programming [Architectural Programming and Human Factors].
(3)
Lectures explore the complex needs and desires of users and clients, the theory and techniques used to investigate these needs, and methods of applying research findings to the design of programs, buildings, and sites.
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A.
ARCH 401.
Architectural Design Studio V [Design Studio V].
(6)
Studio investigates urban theories and strategies focusing on civic buildings, urban design, landscape and infrastructural responses, public policy and architectural form. Projects are multiple buildings and urban forms in complex urban settings.
Prerequisite: (301 and 302 with minimum grades of C+) and 311 and 322 and 332 and 342 and 441 .
Corequisite: 451.
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A.
ARCH 402 / 502.
Architectural Design VI [Design Studio VI].
(6)
Studio explores and tests issues of collaborative design and other contemporary architectural topics. Topics will vary. At least one section may engage community clients and be offered in conjunction with Landscape and CRP studios.
Prerequisite: (301 and 302 with minimum grades of C+) and 311 and 322 and 332 and 342.
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A.
ARCH 409 / 509.
Vertical Architecture Studio.
(6 to a maximum of 12 Δ)
Studio topics will vary. Typically offered only during the summer. This studio may replace the grade or substitute for any other studio.
Restriction: permission of Director.
ARCH 422 [422 / 522].
Modern and Contemporary Architecture.
(3)
Survey of modern architecture since the late 19th century, primarily in Europe and the Americas.
Prerequisite: 321 and 322.
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A. or B.A. ARTH.
ARCH 430 / 530.
Foundations of Physical Planning.
(3)
(Also offered as CRP 533)
This is an introductory course of physical planning practice for Planning, Architecture and Landscape students. Graphic methods of analysis, field trips, cross-disciplinary projects range from regional plans to design details of the built environment.
Prerequisite: CRP 265.
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A.
{Spring}
ARCH 431 / 533.
Structures II.
(3)
Lectures present structural form and behavior, deflected shapes, approximate and simplified methods of analysis, graphic analysis, trusses, cables and arches, simple beams, columns, continuous structures, three-dimensional structures, structural design issues.
Prerequisite: 332.
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A. or B.S. in Construction Management.
ARCH 432 / 534.
Building Systems.
(3)
Lecture course focuses on human comfort and safety systems including vertical transportation, fire suppression, thermal conditioning, air movement and quality, plumbing and electrical systems, and acoustics.
Prerequisite: 431.
ARCH 441 / 541.
Sustainability II.
(3)
Explores the application of theoretical foundations of sustainability to building and landscape design including concepts of passive solar design, daylighting, water conservation, and green building materials and construction methods. Introduces environmental rating systems such as LEED.
Prerequisite: 241.
ARCH 442 / 544.
Design Leadership [Politics, Culture, and Architecture].
(3)
Lecture/seminar course explores the historical and contemporary relationships between political, cultural and economic theories that affect and are affected by built environments.
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A.
ARCH 451.
Research and Design.
(3)
Lecture course introduces research methods that support the design process. The course will culminate in a research paper or research position paper for a design project.
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A.
ARCH 452 / 552.
Practice and Theory.
(3)
Lecture course examines, in depth, the history and theories that have shaped contemporary architectural practice. Additionally this course will examine discourse currently animating architectural practice including ethics, types of practices, and the role of professions.
Corequisite: 402.
ARCH 461 / 661.
Problems.
(1-6 to a maximum of 12 Δ)
Students wishing to undertake a special study project must have instructor approval.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
ARCH 462 / 662.
Seminar.
(1-3, no limit Δ)
Individually listed topics vary each semester.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
ARCH 463 / 563.
Architecture and Design for Children.
(3)
A service learning course designed for architecture students and others teaching design education and architecture to teachers, children and others in the community.
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A.
ARCH 464 / 564.
Lighting.
(3)
Seminar/lab explores principles of architectural lighting. Includes: daylighting, electric lighting and lighting design.
Prerequisite: 431.
Restriction: enrolled in B.A.A.
ARCH 471 / 571.
Real Estate Development.
(3)
Lecture course introduces students to the process of real estate through lectures, case studies and hands-on exercises.
ARCH 472 / 672.
Topics in Architectural Visualization.
(1-3 to a maximum of 6 times Δ )
Topics course. Credits will vary according to content offered.
ARCH 481 / 581.
Southwest Architecture and Cultural Landscapes.
(3)
Introduction to the Native, Hispanic, and Anglo American architectural and cultural landscape traditions, and to the social, technological and intellectual forces reshaping them since 1880, especially the railroad and automobile; modernism, regionalism, and globalization.
Prerequisite: 322.
ARCH 493 / 593.
Civic Places.
(3)
(Also offered as CRP, LA 593)
Seminar investigating the design, planning, and management of public spaces.
ARCH 502 / 402.
Architectural Design VI [Design Studio VI].
(6)
Studio explores and tests issues of collaborative design and other contemporary architectural topics. Topics will vary. At least one section may engage community clients and be offered in conjunction with Landscape and CRP studios.
Restriction: permission of Director.
ARCH 503.
Graduate Architectural Design I.
(6 [5])
Studio introducing architectural design. Investigation of landscape, site and social contexts, private space, programmatic and tectonic issues.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch.
ARCH 504.
Graduate Architectural Design II.
(6 [5])
Studio investigating urban design and public space. Projects emphasize mid-size buildings in urban context and conceptions of human factors, historical and socio-cultural issues, politicized programs and space, and ecologically sound design.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch.
ARCH 505.
Graduate Architectural Design III.
(6 [5])
Studio investigating urban theories and strategies focusing on civic buildings, urban design, landscape and infrastructural responses, public policy, tectonics and making. Complex urban projects and building systems form the basis of this studio.
Prerequisite: 504.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch.
ARCH 509 / 409.
Vertical Architecture Studio.
(6 to a maximum of 12 Δ)
Studio topics will vary. Typically offered only during the summer. This studio may replace the grade or substitute for any other studio.
Restriction: permission of Director.
ARCH 515.
Graduate Architectural Visualization [Graduate Architectural Communications I].
(1 [2])
Seminar/lab introduces issues of architectural representation with an emphasis on digital visualization, representation and modeling as it relates to design process and presentation.
Restriction: enrolled in M. Arch.
ARCH 516.
Graduate Architectural Communications II.
(2)
Seminar/lab explores three-dimensional modeling employing various media. Emphasis is on furthering design concepts, representing building systems, capturing spatial concepts, and analyzing contexts. This course includes an introduction to the fabrication lab.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch.
ARCH 517.
Graduate Architectural Communications [Graduate Architectural Communications III].
(2)
Seminar course develops students use narrative, written, and oral communication in the expression of architectural theories, processes, and positions. Readings and precedent studies help shape discussions about architectural theses.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch.
ARCH 521.
Architectural Analysis.
(3)
Seminar introduces the range of categories and contexts specific to the production and representation of architecture. Open only to students in the 3 1/2 year program.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch.
ARCH 523 / 321.
World Architecture I: History of the Built Environment From Prehistory to 1400 CE.
(3)
(Also offered as ARTH 567 / 323)
Lecture survey of the architectural and urban traditions of ancient and indigenous cultures from prehistory to the late middle ages.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch. or M.A. ARTH.
ARCH 524 / 322.
World Architecture II: History of the Built Environment From 1400 CE to the Present.
(3)
(Also offered as ARTH 568 / 322)
Survey of the architectural and urban traditions of the modern world from the renaissance to the present.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch. or M.A. ARTH.
ARCH 530 / 430.
Foundations of Physical Planning.
(3)
(Also offered as CRP 533)
This is an introductory course of physical planning practice for Planning, Architecture and Landscape students. Graphic methods of analysis, field trips, cross-disciplinary projects range from regional plans to design details of the built environment.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch.
{Spring}
ARCH 531.
Graduate Construction I.
(3)
Lab and lectures, introduction of technological aspects of building design and construction.
Restriction: enrolled in M. Arch.
ARCH 532 / 332.
Structures I.
(3)
Lectures present principles of mechanics, equilibrium conditions, properties of structural materials, structural properties of areas, shear and moment, flexural stresses, shearing stresses, deflection, trusses and funicular structures.
Restriction: enrolled in M. Arch.
ARCH 533 / 431.
Structures II.
(3)
Lectures present structural form and behavior, deflected shapes, approximate and simplified methods of analysis, graphic analysis, trusses, cables and arches, simple beams, columns, continuous structures, three-dimensional structures, structural design issues.
Prerequisite: 532.
ARCH 534 / 432.
Building Systems.
(3)
Lecture course focuses on human comfort and safety systems including vertical transportation, fire suppression, thermal conditioning, air movement and quality, plumbing and electrical systems, and acoustics.
Prerequisite: 431 or 533.
ARCH 541 / 441.
Sustainability II.
(3)
Explores the application of theoretical foundations of sustainability to building and landscape design including concepts of passive solar design, daylighting, water conservation, and green building materials and construction methods. Introduces environmental rating systems such as LEED.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch.
ARCH 542 / 342.
Architectural Programming [Architectural Programming and Human Factors].
(3)
Lectures explore the complex needs and desires of users and clients, the theory and techniques used to investigate these needs, and methods of applying research findings to the design of programs, buildings, and sites.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch.
ARCH 544 / 442.
Design Leadership [Politics, Culture, and Architecture].
(3)
Lecture/seminar course explores the historical and contemporary relationships between political, cultural and economic theories that affect and are affected by built environments.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch.
ARCH 551.
Research Methodology.
(3)
Lecture/seminar focuses on the development and conceptualization of research questions and techniques to translate those questions into a primary or secondary research strategy. Emphasis is given to the relationship between research questions and design strategies.
Prerequisite: 503 or 601.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch.
ARCH 552 / 452.
Practice and Theory.
(3)
Lecture course examines, in depth, the history and theories that have shaped contemporary architectural practice. Additionally this course will examine discourse currently animating architectural practice including ethics, types of practices, and the role of professions.
Corequisite: 502.
ARCH 563 / 463.
Architecture and Design for Children.
(3)
A service learning course designed for architecture students and others teaching design education and architecture to teachers, children and others in the community.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch.
ARCH 564 / 464.
Lighting.
(3)
Seminar/lab explores principles of architectural lighting. Includes: daylighting, electric lighting and lighting design.
Prerequisite: 534.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch.
ARCH 571 / 471.
Real Estate Development.
(3)
Lecture course introduces students to the process of real estate through lectures, case studies and hands-on exercises.
ARCH 581 / 481.
Southwest Architecture and Cultural Landscapes.
(3)
Introduction to the Native, Hispanic, and Anglo American architectural and cultural landscape traditions, and to the social, technological and intellectual forces reshaping them since 1880, especially the railroad and automobile; modernism, regionalism, and globalization.
Prerequisite: 524.
ARCH 590.
Historic Research Methods.
(3)
(Also offered as CRP 590, LA 590)
An introduction to the methods for the documentation, research and analysis of historic built environments as preparation for historic preservation and contemporary regional design.
ARCH 591.
Introduction to Preservation and Regionalism.
(3)
(Also offered as CRP 591, LA 591)
An introduction to the history, theory and professional practices of historic preservation and regional contemporary design and planning.
ARCH 593 / 493.
Civic Places.
(3)
(Also offered as CRP, LA 593)
Seminar investigating the design, planning, and management of public spaces.
ARCH 596.
Project/Thesis Preparation.
(3-6, no limit Δ)
Foundational independent study where thesis or final project dimensions are explored, program or project principles established and search for available and manageable information completed. Feasibility of proceeding with the project is decided with faculty advisor(s).
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Restriction: permission of Director.
ARCH 597.
Master's Project.
(6)
Development of an advanced architectural project based on research and program developed in ARCH 596. Once initiated, continuous enrollment is required (excluding summer) until project is approved by faculty committee.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Prerequisite: 551 and 596.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
ARCH 599.
Master's Thesis.
(6, no limit Δ)
Development of a research project reflective of advanced inquiry into an architectural topic.
Plan I only.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Prerequisite: 596 and (602 or 603).
Restriction: permission of Director.
ARCH 601.
Masters Architectural Design I.
(6)
Studio investigating building tectonics, structure, technical documentation, sustainability and construction. Building projects will be of medium size and may include adaptive reuse of existing structures and sites.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch.
ARCH 602.
Masters Architectural Design II.
(6)
Studio topics will vary. Projects will investigate collaboration in design. At least one section will engage community clients and, depending on their availability, will be offered in conjunction with Landscape and CRP courses.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch.
ARCH 603.
Masters Architectural Design III.
(6)
Studio investigation of architectural process, practice and design in a contemporary global context. Projects range from large-scale, multi-national headquarters to small-scale projects engaging socio-political interventions.
Prerequisite: 601.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch.
ARCH 604.
Masters Architectural Design IV.
(6)
Studio investigation of an evidence-based line of architectural inquiry. The project will include application of research.
Prerequisite: 602 or 603.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch.
ARCH 605.
Masters Architectural Design V.
(6 to a maximum of 12 Δ)
Studio developing a comprehensive project. The project must be clearly resolved, highly articulated, integrate building systems and other prior coursework, demonstrate excellent critical thinking, skill, and craft; and well presented.
Offered on CR/NC basis only.
Prerequisite: 604.
Restriction: enrolled in M.Arch.
ARCH 619.
Built Environment Teaching Colloquium.
(1, may be repeated once Δ)
This course presents an introduction to teaching. Through practice, observation, reading, and discussion, students gain familiarity with a range of techniques and styles of teaching.
Offered on CR/NC basis only.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
ARCH 631.
Systems Integration I.
(3)
Lecture course presents a comprehensive and integrative process to examine the interrelationship of the properties of materials, building structures, environmental systems, and construction technology, as they influence design decision making.
Prerequisite: 533.
ARCH 632.
Systems Integration II.
(3)
Lecture course examines aesthetic stances and approaches to the integration of building systems including surfaces and details.
Prerequisite: 631.
ARCH 651.
Professional Practice II.
(3)
Seminar explores issues involved in the founding and operation of an architectural practice. Additionally, the course reviews building codes, professional ethics, licensing, contracts and liability, and insurance.
Prerequisite: 602.
ARCH 661 / 461.
Problems.
(1-6 to a maximum of 12 Δ)
Students wishing to undertake a special study project must have instructor approval.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
ARCH 662 / 462.
Seminar.
(1-3, no limit Δ)
Individually listed topics vary each semester.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
ARCH 672 / 472.
Topics in Architectural Visualization.
(1-3 to a maximum of 6 times Δ)
Topics course. Credits will vary according to content offered.
ARCH 691.
Sustainable Settlements.
(3)
(Also offered as CRP, LA 691)
Urban design history, goals and theory with emphasis on cultural and ecological vibrancy.
Restriction: admitted to a graduate program in the School of Architecture and Planning.
ARCH 692.
Urban Outcomes Analysis.
(1-3 to a maximum of 4 Δ)
(Also offered as CRP, LA 692)
Seminar on the definition, measurement, and prediction of urban design outcomes. Specific topics will vary. This course will be organized as three modules.
Restriction: admitted to a graduate program in the School of Architecture and Planning.
ARCH 693.
Urban Goals and Components Analysis.
(1-3 to a maximum of 4 Δ)
(Also offered as CRP, LA 693)
Seminar on urban types. Topics vary but may include types, morphogenesis, diagramming, mapping, video. Organized as three modules.
Restriction: admitted to a graduate program in the School of Architecture and Planning.
ARCH 694.
Urban Design Methods.
(1-3 to a maximum of 4 Δ)
(Also offered as CRP, LA 694)
Topics will vary but may include design of public space, streets, transit districts, tactical urbanism. This course will be organized as three modules.
Restriction: admitted to a graduate program in the School of Architecture and Planning.
ARCH 695.
Urban Development and Regulation.
(1-3)
(Also offered as CRP, LA 695)
Seminar on methods for urban development and regulation. Topics vary but may include design codes, pattern books, and curatorial reports. Organized as three modules.
Restriction: admitted to a graduate program in the School of Architecture and Planning.
ARCH 696.
Master's Project or Thesis Documentation and Dissemination.
(6)
Documentation and dissemination of Master's Project or Master's Thesis.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Prerequisite: 597 or 599.