The Tulane University School of Architecture, located on the Uptown Campus, offers a comprehensive curriculum focused on design, preservation, and urban innovation. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and sustainable practices in the built environment.
- Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch): This five-year professional degree program provides foundational skills in architectural design, history, and technology. Students engage in studio courses where they develop conceptual designs, master building systems, and explore digital fabrication techniques. Core courses include Architectural Design Studio I-V, which progressively build from basic form-making to complex urban projects, integrating environmental considerations and material science.
- Master of Architecture (M.Arch): Designed for both pre-professional and post-professional students, this graduate program delves into advanced design methodologies, urbanism, and emerging technologies. Key courses cover Advanced Design Studios, focusing on topics like resilient architecture in coastal regions, parametric design using software such as Rhino and Grasshopper, and thesis projects that address real-world challenges in New Orleans' unique context.
- Master of Preservation (M.S. Historic Preservation): This specialized degree trains students in the conservation of historic structures and landscapes. Courses include Preservation Design Studio, History of Architecture and Urbanism, and Technical Aspects of Preservation, where learners study material analysis, adaptive reuse, and policy frameworks. Fieldwork often involves local landmarks, emphasizing cultural heritage in the Gulf South.
- Master of Sustainable Real Estate (M.S. Real Estate): Integrating architecture with development, this program covers sustainable building practices, real estate finance, and urban policy. Students take courses like Green Building Design, Real Estate Development Process, and Sustainable Urbanism, applying knowledge through case studies on eco-friendly projects and market analysis.
- Ph.D. in Architecture: For research-oriented scholars, this doctoral program explores theoretical and applied aspects of architecture. Core seminars include Architectural Theory, Research Methods in Design, and Dissertation Development, fostering original contributions to fields like tropical architecture and disaster-resilient design.
Across all programs, interdisciplinary electives such as Landscape Architecture, Digital Media in Design, and Community Engagement enrich the curriculum. The school collaborates with Tulane's other disciplines, including engineering and public health, to address pressing issues like climate change and social equity. Studios simulate professional practice, with guest lectures from leading architects and site visits to iconic structures. Graduates are prepared for licensure, leadership in firms, or academia, with a strong emphasis on ethical design that respects New Orleans' cultural and environmental legacy. The curriculum evolves with industry trends, incorporating BIM (Building Information Modeling), AI in design, and regenerative sustainability principles. This holistic approach ensures students not only master technical skills but also cultivate a visionary perspective on shaping livable cities.
