Boston Architectural College (BAC), located in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, stands as a unique institution in higher education focused on design and the built environment. Founded in 1889, BAC emphasizes a practice-integrated curriculum that blends rigorous academics with real-world professional experience. Jobs at Boston Architectural College attract professionals passionate about architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, and graphic design. These positions range from faculty roles mentoring students in studios to administrative jobs supporting the college's innovative programs.
The college's small size—around 700 students—fosters a close-knit community where faculty and staff directly impact student success. With its urban campus near the Back Bay's architectural landmarks, BAC offers opportunities to engage with Boston's vibrant design scene. Careers here are ideal for those seeking to shape the next generation of designers while advancing their own practice.
BAC began as the Boston Society of Architects' School of Architecture, evolving into an independent college dedicated to experiential learning. Unlike traditional universities, BAC requires students to complete 3,200 hours of professional practice, making it a leader in work-study education. This mission influences jobs at the college, prioritizing hires with industry experience who can bridge theory and practice.
Over 130 years, BAC has grown to offer NAAB-accredited degrees like the Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) and Master of Architecture (MArch), alongside programs in interior architecture, landscape architecture, and design studies. Its commitment to sustainability and social justice shapes job responsibilities, such as developing curricula on resilient design.
BAC's programs are housed in the School of Architecture, School of Design, and School of Landscape Architecture. Key offerings include:
Jobs in these departments involve teaching studios, leading critiques, and supervising capstone projects tied to real client work. Faculty often collaborate with Boston firms on live projects, enhancing the appeal for practicing architects.
Common jobs at Boston Architectural College include tenure-track faculty, adjunct professors, lecturers, and staff roles in admissions, career services, and facilities. Faculty positions emphasize studio teaching, while administrative jobs support enrollment and operations. For more on types of university jobs, explore our guide.
Recent openings have included Visiting Assistant Professor in Sustainable Design and Director of Graduate Programs, reflecting BAC's focus on emerging fields like computational design.
Jobs at Boston Architectural College demand specific credentials tailored to design education.
Required Academic Qualifications: A professional degree such as MArch, MLA (Master of Landscape Architecture), or MID (Master of Interior Design) is standard for faculty. NAAB accreditation requires this for architecture roles. PhD holders may lead research initiatives.
Research Focus or Expertise Needed: Expertise in areas like parametric modeling, urban resilience, or inclusive design. BAC prioritizes applicants with portfolios showcasing innovative projects, often aligned with Boston's historic preservation needs.
Preferred Experience: 5-10 years in professional practice, teaching experience at NAAB schools, publications in design journals, and grants from organizations like NEA (National Endowment for the Arts). Portfolio reviews are key.
Skills and Competencies:
These ensure hires contribute to BAC's hands-on ethos.
To apply for jobs at Boston Architectural College, visit their careers page on the BAC website. Submit a letter of interest, CV, portfolio (PDF or link), teaching philosophy, and three references. Applications are reviewed year-round, with deadlines for specific postings.
Actionable Tips:
Follow up professionally after submission.
BAC champions diversity through the Center for Diversity and Inclusion, offering scholarships like the Diversity in Design Scholarship for underrepresented groups. Faculty hiring includes bias training and goals for diverse representation. Examples include partnerships with NOMA (National Organization of Minority Architects) and curricula on equitable design, ensuring jobs support inclusive environments.
BAC's compact campus in Boston's Fenway area promotes work-life balance with flexible hours, remote options for some staff, and wellness programs. Faculty enjoy 10-week summers for practice, collaborative studios fostering community, and proximity to cultural hubs like the MFA. Events like design charrettes and firm tours enrich campus life, while Boston's walkability aids balance.
Advancement includes tenure tracks, sabbaticals for practice, and leadership in BAC's BACpro program with firms. Salaries competitive for independents, around $80K-$120K for assistant professors per Glassdoor data.
Link to professor salaries for benchmarks.
Jobs at Boston Architectural College offer unique opportunities in a practice-driven environment. Explore more higher ed jobs, get higher ed career advice, browse university jobs, or post a job to attract talent like BAC professionals.
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