Minor in Architectural Studies (ARST)

The Minor in Architectural Studies is an opportunity for University of Calgary undergraduates to get a one-year jump start on the Master of Architecture program. The Minor consists of the courses taken in the Foundation Year of the Master of Architecture program. Undergraduates study alongside our graduate students in a blended learning environment that includes architectural design studios, workshops in 2D and 3D graphics and digital fabrication as well as lecture courses in history, building science, and sustainability theory. If you complete the minor, you’re also completing the first year of the MArch degree.

The Minor in Architectural Studies can be added to almost all UCalgary undergraduate degrees. Admissions are based on your university transcript — how you’ve done on your bachelor degree and/or major so far.

If you’re planning to apply for the MArch, students are recommended to use their undergraduate studies to develop a broad knowledge base that supplements the discipline-specific training in architecture. Examples include taking courses in the humanities, social sciences, fine arts, biological and physical sciences, computer science, commerce and management. Creative courses that develop skills in 2D graphics and 3D modeling or fabrication are particularly beneficial, as are whenever possible, collaborative experiential learning experiences. Especially recommended are the following courses:

• ARST 201: Introduction to Architecture and Design (take in first year)•
• ARST 431: Design Thinking in the Built Environment Studio I and ARST 441: Design Thinking in the Built Environment Studio II (take in second or third year)
• SUST 201: Exploring Sustainability
• EVDS 401: Introduction to Environmental Design (online course)
• Art history and courses that develop skills in art and design

Jennifer Taillefer
Academic Programs Coordinator 
Professional Faculties Building, Room PF 2188 

403.220.4388
jtaillef@ucalgary.ca

Note: The Faculty of Graduate Studies no longer accepts a three-year Bachelor of Communication and Culture with a one-year minor in ARST for entry into graduate programs.

For more information about undergraduate programs and courses, refer to the University of Calgary Undergraduate Calendar.

Students can complete their ARST Minor courses over one or two years, depending on the need to accommodate the requirements of a major, or other scheduling conflicts. Upon completion of the ARST Minor requirements, students can then apply for admission into the first year of the two-year Master of Architecture program. You can take the ARST in your third and/or fourth year of undergraduate studies. Admission is based on GPA and a design portfolio. 

REQUIRED COURSES

• ARST 484: Studio I Design Thinking
• ARST 423: Sustainability in the Built Environment
• ARST 444: Studio II in Architecture
• ARST 449: Building Science and Technology I
• ARST 451: Graphics Workshop I
• ARST 453: Graphics Workshop II
• ARST 457.01: Architectural History I
• ARST 457.02: Architectural History II