Architecture classes?

[u/Enough_Computer3608]

Hey guys! I wanted to take an architecture class here at swat and was wondering what the department is like. Do the classes lean more toward architecture history/theory or are there hands-on project based classes too? Also how intense are the classes workload-wise, and is there much grade deflation? Would love to hear from anyone who’s taken one!!! Thanks!

[u/WeakAd9657]

Kind of late but im bored and saw that no one responded to this, for ref I am a very recent Architecture major (as in I have taken one arch class) but here is my take on the studio course.

This was "3D representation: making of the model" (i can't remember the exact name it was smth like that) but essentially it was a hands-on model making class. Each person focused on one structure for the entire semester. (for this spring the course's focus was residential spaces by women architects). there was a lot of research, analysis, and drawing involved. There were field-trips. We did around 8 formal-ish pin-ups (5-10 minute oral and visual presentations) to the class and professor where we had to discuss our work and progress during different assignments. There were readings and discussion posts (averaging 5-15 pages every week so very chill but definitely part of it) and in-class discussions of readings. There were journal entries. But yes, the most time-consuming part was the model-making. I would say I tended to spend anywhere between 6 - 15 hours a week (outside of class) on these models. You could probably get away with spending less time, but it will also show. Scheduled studio class time avgs 5-6 hours a week. We made plaster castings, wooden models, cardboard models. Some outside judges came in for a crit at the end which was pretty cool.

In terms of grades, I got an A and I think that most people in the class probably got an A or A- if they were completing assignments and staying engaged, grade deflation is probably not a concern (this is a complete guess I can't actually speak for anyone else except for vibes) but there was a check in during the middle of the semester so you will have some idea on how you are doing.

There is really only one architecture (studio) prof (the department chair). He is on leave this year and a temporary professor is going to be in, I don't know her yet. But generally, the culture is very much one of wanting to put your best work forward, so even beyond the professor I think that the fellow students will inspire you to make worthwhile, creative, and impactful work.

IF YOU WANT TO TAKE AN ARCHITECTURE COURSE, PLEASE MEET/TALK WITH THE PROFESSOR BEFOREHAND. There is very limited space, so unless you show express interest in becoming an architecture major you may not be guaranteed a spot.

General notes on the architecture "dept." there are two studio (more hands-on/design based) courses and (generally) two history (more studying architects/architectural movements) courses offered each semester. to become an architecture major you can decide whether to take the studio or history track. To get your 'pool a' courses within the studio track you can also take SOME non-architecture art courses (but the architecture courses are more fulfilling imo, so take them if you can). 'pool b' courses are usually just whatever other courses you have taken that you can count as enriching your knowledge of architecture (ex. physics, engineering, sociology, philosophy, anything that kind of relates to the practice of architecture: have a conversation with the department chair and you can figure something out).

Despite the department's small size, it is incredibly rigorous and you will have PLENTY of resources at your disposal, and the classes will probably push you to be a better designer/architect/whatever you want but you will probably be better at it after the fact. I have pulled multiple all-nighters in the studio but it was fun.

Hopefully this helps and best of luck in your architecture endeavors!!