Southern Methodist University
university
Southern Methodist University

Southern Methodist University

Challenge yourself to find your voice, hone your craft and make the world better.

Dallas, TX 75205, USA

About Southern Methodist University

Private research school known for business & law & home to the George W. Bush Presidential Center. Students pursuing the History of Architecture Specialization within the Art History major at SMU's Meadows School of the Arts gain a comprehensive understanding of architecture and the built environment across diverse historical, geographical, and cultural contexts. The program develops analytical skills through academic writing, photography, and drawing, familiarizing students with conventions of architectural history and representation. Artistic skills are honed through required studio art coursework, while calculus and physics provide a foundation in structural design mechanics. Coursework also delves into the social impact and ethics of architectural design, including human architecture's effects on the natural environment and its use in contexts of oppression. This specialization is designed to prepare students for advanced graduate studies, typically a Master of Architecture (M.Arch) degree, at leading institutions, equipping them to creatively and productively address future architectural challenges.
Program NameDetails
B.A. in Art History, Specialization in History of Architecture
Bachelor

This program provides a foundation for graduate studies in architecture by developing knowledge of architectural history, analytical skills, and artistic skills. Students explore architecture's aesthetics and functionality across time and cultures.

4 Years (Minimum 120 credit hours)
English
Estimated undergraduate cost of attendance for 2026-2027 is $96,388 for students living on-campus. Estimated tuition (12-18 credit hours enrolled) is $63,736 and estimated general student fees are $8,080.
Deadline: November 1 (Early Action, Early Decision I), January 15 (Early Decision 2, Regular Decision), April 1 (Fall Transfers, Current SMU Students)

Performance & Metrics

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Programs
Accreditations & Affiliations
Southern Methodist University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The Meadows School of the Arts is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). The History of Architecture Specialization is a pre-professional undergraduate program and is not accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), which accredits professional architecture degrees. It prepares students for NAAB-accredited graduate programs.
Admissions
Deadlines
Undergraduate - Regular Decision, Early Decision II
February 1
Undergraduate - Fall Transfers, Current SMU Students
April 1
Graduate Art History (for full consideration and scholarships)
January 1
Undergraduate - Early Action, Early Decision I, Spring Transfers
November 1
Requirements
An overall GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred, though lower GPAs are considered. Admission is competitive. For Art History graduate programs, a minimum of 12 undergraduate art history credit hours above the survey level is typically required. International applicants generally require TOEFL (iBT minimum 100 overall, no section below 22 for Art History graduate programs) or IELTS scores.

Southern Methodist University Academic FAQ

Southern Methodist University is Challenge yourself to find your voice, hone your craft and make the world better.

Applicants are typically required to submit: An overall GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred, though lower GPAs are considered. Admission is competitive. For Art History graduate programs, a minimum of 12 undergraduate art history credit hours abov....

Southern Methodist University provides a comprehensive curriculum including: B.A. in Art History, Specialization in History of Architecture.

The institution maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, ensuring personalized mentorship and studio culture.

Southern Methodist University is situated in Dallas, United States, offering a vibrant context for architectural study.

Yes, Southern Methodist University holds accreditations from: Southern Methodist University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The Meadows School of the Arts is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). The History of Architecture Specialization is a pre-professional undergraduate program and is not accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), which accredits professional architecture degrees. It prepares students for NAAB-accredited graduate programs..