Master of Architecture at School of the Art Institute of Chicago

The Master of Architecture course at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago equips students with necessary skills and techniques to pursue a career in architecture.

Our Master of Architecture (MArch) programme offers students an understanding of history, theory and technique within the context of a highly ranked interdisciplinary institution.

Students master the skills and critical thinking necessary to build a professional practice focused on advancing ideas and inventions in the field of architecture.

We offer a National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) accredited Master of Architecture degree with the options of a three-year track or a two-year accelerated track.

School: School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC)
Course: Master of Architecture and Master of Architecture with a Track in Interior Architecture
Type: Postgraduate
Location: Chicago, USA
Course dates: August 2026 to May 2027 or 2028
Application deadline: continuous enrolment, accepting applications

Find out more about the course and apply ›

a photograph of architecture students in a classroom
The course takes place in Chicago, USA

What will I learn during this course?

– History, theory and technique of architectural design
– Skills and experience necessary for professional practice
– Critical thinking necessary to develop new ideas, drive invention and expand the discipline of architecture

What are the requirements?

– Bachelor's degree
– Academic and/or work experience in architecture, environmental or interior design, or related fields are recommended but not required for students accepted into the 90-credit MArch programme
– Undergraduate pre-professional Bachelor's degrees in architectural studies, architectural technology, or interior design may be accepted into the two-year, 60-credit MArch, Option Two programme

What facilities and resources are available?

– The Sullivan Fabrication Studio, a dedicated fabrication workshop equipped with a full range of hand tools and industrial wood and metal-working machines
– The Advanced Output Center, SAIC's prototyping lab specialising in laser cutting and 3D digital input and output
– Ryerson and Burnham Libraries, a major art and architecture research collection
– Art Institute of Chicago museum, the Visiting Artist Programme
– Flaxman Library
– Numerous on-campus exhibition spaces
– Purpose-built labs and special collections

a photograph of a person looking at a projection on a wall
Students are taught architecture through history, theory and technique

What career prospects can I expect upon graduating?

Students graduate with the skills and credentials necessary to build a professional practice focused on advancing ideas and inventions in the field of architecture.

Who teaches this course?

– A faculty of accomplished architects with professional experience and connections lead classes and collaborations with external partners

a photograph of a person standing within a square wooden structure
Students will have access to a range of facilities relevant for their studies

Dezeen Courses

Dezeen Courses is a service from Dezeen that provides details of architecture, interiors and design courses around the world. Click here for more information.