University of Minnesota
university
University of Minnesota

University of Minnesota

Educating professional architects and advancing architectural knowledge through design-centered teaching and research.

89 Church St SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA

About University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota School of Architecture, part of the College of Design, is dedicated to cultivating curious, independent, and adaptable thinkers who actively engage with and challenge the evolving boundaries of architectural practice. The school's education encompasses mastery of core architectural disciplines alongside advancement in emerging areas. Its professional and pre-professional studio-based programs are committed to design excellence, rigorously grounded in critical thinking, research, and social engagement. The school's philosophy emphasizes design grounded in critical representation (materials and media literacy) and social engagement, aiming to make a positive impact on the world. It prepares students to be leaders by linking theory with technology, and cultural ideas with ethical and sustainable practice.
Program NameDetails
Bachelor of Design in Architecture (BDA)
Bachelor

The BDA program takes a broad approach to design as it relates to architecture, exploring design beyond traditional building scales and systems. Students develop verbal and visual skills, practicing design as a dialogue between divergent and convergent thinking.

4 Years
English
Refer to the University of Minnesota's tuition and fees schedule.
Deadline: Check the University of Minnesota's admission website for specific deadlines.
Bachelor of Science in Architecture (BS)
Bachelor

The BS program provides a thorough sequence of coursework focusing on architecture and design at the building scale and for building systems. It is a pre-professional degree that introduces students to socio-cultural, ecological, environmental, material, technological, and historical forces that shape built environments.

4 Years
English
Refer to the University of Minnesota's tuition and fees schedule.
Deadline: Check the University of Minnesota's admission website for specific deadlines.
Master of Architecture (M.Arch)
Master

The M.Arch program prepares students for licensure and practice in architecture as a speculative, analytic, and investigative endeavor. The curriculum covers techniques of representation, history and theory, technology, and the economics of construction and practice.

2-3 Years
English
Refer to the University of Minnesota's tuition and fees schedule.
Deadline: January 15 (priority deadline for funding consideration)
Master of Science in Architecture - Metropolitan Design track
Master of Science

This track focuses on urban design, requiring coursework in foundation courses, urban design studio, and electives. Students will complete a thesis or project.

1.5-2 years
English
Refer to the University of Minnesota's tuition and fees schedule.
Deadline: Check the University of Minnesota's admission website for specific deadlines.
Master of Science in Architecture - Sustainable Design track
Master of Science

This track focuses on sustainable design, including foundation courses and electives. Students will complete a thesis or project.

1.5 Years
English
Refer to the University of Minnesota's tuition and fees schedule.
Deadline: Check the University of Minnesota's admission website for specific deadlines.
Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP)
Master

This interdisciplinary program prepares students to analyze, forecast, design, and implement plans for regions, communities, and neighborhoods. Students develop a comprehensive understanding of the built environment and the ability to mediate among competing interests.

Varies
English
Refer to the University of Minnesota's tuition and fees schedule.
Deadline: April 1 (Fall deadline)
Bachelor of Science in Interior Design
Bachelor

This CIDA-accredited program focuses on improving quality of life and promoting health and well-being through interior design. Students study design fundamentals and technology, theory, process, communication, and research methods.

Varies
English
Refer to the University of Minnesota's tuition and fees schedule.
Deadline: Check the University of Minnesota's admission website for specific deadlines.
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
Bachelor

This program offers a comprehensive education in landscape design and planning, integrating ecology, art, and sustainability. Students develop a well-rounded skill set in landscape architecture.

Varies
English
Refer to the University of Minnesota's tuition and fees schedule.
Deadline: Check the University of Minnesota's admission website for specific deadlines.
Doctor of Philosophy in Design (Architecture Track)
PhD

This program is intended for students interested in academic research who seek to become professors or deepen their professional practice. It provides a background in theory and research methods, allowing students to study areas including history/theory/culture, representation, design, and technology.

4 Years (full-time)
English
Refer to the University of Minnesota's tuition and fees schedule.
Deadline: Check the University of Minnesota's admission website for specific deadlines.
Doctor of Philosophy in Design (Interior Design Track)
PhD

This program emphasizes the theory, research, and specialized practice components of design as applied to people's health, safety, and well-being in the interior environment. Focusing on interior design research issues during your graduate work will deepen your knowledge of the relationships between people and the built environment.

Varies
English
Refer to the University of Minnesota's tuition and fees schedule.
Deadline: Admissions are currently paused. Check the University of Minnesota's admission website for updates.

Performance & Metrics

Institutional Stats
0
Students
0
Faculty
0
Alumni
10
Programs
Accreditations & Affiliations
The Master of Architecture (M.Arch) program is professionally accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). The current accreditation term ends on December 31, 2031. The Bachelor of Design in Architecture (BDA) and Bachelor of Science in Architecture (BS) undergraduate programs are non-accredited.
Admissions
75% for the Architecture program; 77% for the overall university.
Acceptance Rate
Deadlines
Master of Architecture (M.Arch)
Priority deadline for fall entry term is January 15, with applications accepted beyond this date.
Undergraduate (General University)
Early Action 1: November 1, Early Action II: December 1, Regular Decision: January 1
Requirements
Master of Architecture (M.Arch): Requires a complete University of Minnesota Graduate School Application, unofficial transcripts, essays, three letters of recommendation (preferably two from faculty), and a portfolio. Students with non-architectural backgrounds may need a six-week summer course.
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Architecture: Admission is competitive, based on grades and a portfolio of student work. Undergraduate admissions are standardized across the university.

University of Minnesota Academic FAQ

University of Minnesota is Educating professional architects and advancing architectural knowledge through design-centered teaching and research.

The acceptance rate for University of Minnesota is 75% for the Architecture program; 77% for the overall university., reflecting the selectivity of its academic programs.

Applicants are typically required to submit: [object Object].

University of Minnesota provides a comprehensive curriculum including: Bachelor of Design in Architecture (BDA), Bachelor of Science in Architecture (BS), Master of Architecture (M.Arch), Master of Science in Architecture - Metropolitan Design track, Master of Science in Architecture - Sustainable Design track.

The institution maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of The overall University of Minnesota Twin Cities student-to-faculty ratio is 17 to 1. For architecture design studios, the ratio is typically 1:12, and studio classes generally have a 15:1 student-faculty ratio., ensuring personalized mentorship and studio culture.

University of Minnesota is situated in Minneapolis, United States, offering a vibrant context for architectural study.

Yes, University of Minnesota holds accreditations from: The Master of Architecture (M.Arch) program is professionally accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). The current accreditation term ends on December 31, 2031. The Bachelor of Design in Architecture (BDA) and Bachelor of Science in Architecture (BS) undergraduate programs are non-accredited..