The Catholic University of America
School of Architecture and Planning
Setting
The Catholic University of America, located in Washington, DC, was established as a graduate and research center for the study of all branches of literature and science, both sacred and profane. A founding member of the Association of American Universities, Catholic University is proud of its achievements; producing outstanding graduates from the School of Architecture and Planning, the Columbus School of Law, the Rome School of Music, and the School of Religious Studies.
School Philosophy
Our school's mission, "Building Stewardship," focuses on preparing architects and designers to assume a personal responsibility for the welfare of the world. We stress the interdependence of the words "building" and "stewardship." We focus on how stewardship itself must be designed and constructed, as process and result;how humanity must actively envision and build a collective ethos of stewardship. Experienced in the integrative, creative and holistic process of design, architects and planners are uniquely positioned to help forge a compelling contemporary attitude toward stewardship for society at large. In addition, our school focuses on how we must be capable stewards when we indeed do physically build. We must care deeply for the impact our projects will have upon past and future human efforts and upon the fragile natural wonder of our globe. To embrace this holistic approach, CUArch emphasizes: Design Excellence; Interdisciplinary Study; and Washington, DC, as a Design Laboratory. Our belief is that we are all stewards of this earth. Architects and planners have the skills to help forge a true difference in humanity's future.
Programs
Bachelor of Science The undergraduate program is offered to those seeking a foundation in the field of architecture, as preparation for continued education in a professional degree program, or for employment options in fields related to architecture. The undergraduate curriculum introduces the student to the world of architecture in increasingly intensive stages. The first two years of study include introductory courses in design, history, theory, graphics and computer applications, as well grounding in the liberal arts. The third and fourth years consist mainly of design, technology, and history offerings. In addition, students may elect to enter the dual degree curriculum in Architecture and Civil Engineering, giving the option of entering either one or both of these fields after graduation. Master of Architecture CUA offers two options for earning the Master of Architecture professional degree. The first is a two-year program for students from other institutions with a four-year undergraduate preprofessional degree in architecture. The second option is a three-year program for students who have an undergraduate degree in a field other than architecture. The graduate architecture program at CUA synthesizes design, creative, and professional rigor. Students may elect to enroll in one of five graduate concentrations: Cultural Studies/Sacred Space, Design Technologies, Digital Media, Real Estate Development and Urban Practice. These concentrations have been developed to allow students the opportunity for more focused specialization during their graduate education.
of Focus
1. Cross-Cultural Contexts > Human Experiences
2. Design/Build
3. Digital Design & Visualization
4. Digital Fabrication & Technology
5. History | Theory | Criticism
6. Materials and Construction
7. Urbanism
Opportunities
Study Abroad
Facilities
Large-format Printer
Laser Cutter
Woodshop
3D Printing
CNC Milling
Fabrication Lab
Policies
Transfer Policies
Both first-time applicants and transfer applicants will use the Common Application.
For portfolio requirements for transfer students, download this guide: (http://architecture.cua.edu/res/docs/TRANSFERportfolio(2).pdf)
