Bachelor of Science in Architecture University of Nevada Las Vegas, USA

The undergraduate program in Architecture leads to the pre-professional degree of Bachelor of Science in Architecture. The program is designed to provide a broad, but rigorous design studio-based educational experience that is a pre-requisite to graduate studies in architecture and subsequently fundamental to the professional practice of providing architectural services. In this context the students’ creative and innovative design activities are guided by an understanding of the complexity of factors relating to human interaction with the designed and natural environments and an awareness of the fact that architectural design decisions have consequences that impact global habitability, cultural evolution, environmental change, and the sustainability of human societies.

To effectively address challenges of the 21st century architects collaborate with various design professionals on complex design and planning issues related to the built environment where the interconnections of science, art and technology are self-evident. The program’s curriculum reflects this interdisciplinary and inter-professional realm and transcends traditional disciplinary boundaries by drawing from related curricula. Design studio and technology courses systematically incorporate concern for the social, economic, political and physical components of design-research problem-solving processes.

The pre-professional degree of Bachelor of Science in Architecture is desirable for those wishing a foundation in the field of architecture, as preparation for either continued education in a professional degree program or for employment in architecturally related areas. Graduates are employed in related fields such as digital arts, urban development, real estate, and construction. Public agencies, nonprofit organizations, private firms and service providers also offer employment opportunities. Generally it is an excellent preparation for roles in society that benefit from an understanding of and exposure to architectural design.

Learning Outcomes

The Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree is a component of the Master of Architecture Degree accredited by NAAB, the National Architecture Accrediting Board.  For accreditation, programs must demonstrate that each student possesses the knowledge and skills defined by the following learning outcomes:

• Critical Thinking and Representation
  • Architects must have the ability to build abstract relationships and understand the impact of ideas based on research and analysis of multiple theoretical, social, political, economic, cultural and environmental contexts.  This ability includes facility with the wider range of media used to think about architecture, including writing, investigative skills, speaking, drawing and model making.
• Integrated Building Practices, Technical Skills and Knowledge
  • Architects are called upon to comprehend the technical aspects of design, systems, and materials, and be able to apply that comprehension to their services.  Additionally, they must appreciate their role in the implementation of design decisions, and the impact such decisions on the environment.
• Leadership and Practice
  • Architects need to manage, advocate, and act legally, ethically and critically for the good of the client, society and the public.  This includes collaboration, business, and leadership skills.