Master's Degree in Architecture
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
A master's degree in Architecture is ideal for individuals seeking to combine creativity with technical expertise to design innovative, sustainable, and functional spaces, preparing for careers as licensed architects, urban planners, or design consultants. This program is also valuable for those pursuing expertise in areas such as green building design, historic preservation, or urban development, where architectural solutions shape the built environment and improve community living.
Program Overview
The Master of Architecture program at the University of Kentucky is accredited by the National Architecture Accrediting Board (NAAB). Designed as the second step in a “4+2” curriculum, the program builds on a four-year, non-professional Bachelor of Arts or Science in Architecture and prepares students to pursue licensure as professional architects. Offering both a two-year and a three-year+ track, the program provides flexible pathways for students based on their academic background. Applicants with a NAAB-accredited undergraduate degree may qualify for advanced standing and complete the master's program in just two years, gaining the professional preparation needed to enter the field of architecture.
Our Accreditation
Our Architecture program is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), the only U.S. agency recognized by registration boards to accredit professional architecture degrees. This accreditation ensures graduates meet the educational requirement for licensure in all 55 U.S. jurisdictions, providing a direct pathway to NCARB certification, the Architect Registration Examination, and eligibility to practice as a licensed architect.
Plan to Pursue Licensure Outside of Kentucky?
If you plan to obtain professional licensure outside of Kentucky, please refer to the Licensure page to confirm whether the program meets the educational requirements for professional licensure in your state of interest.
Admission Requirements
Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Application Requirements
Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.
Program Specific Requirements
All applicants to the School of Architecture Graduate Program must have a bachelor degree from an accredited four-year college or university prior to starting the Master of Architecture Program. The Master of Architecture is a three-year professional degree program, which qualifies graduates to pursue licensure in architecture. Applicants with NAAB accredited Bachelor of Science or Arts in Architecture may apply for advanced standing, in order to complete the graduate program within two years. It is recommended that applicants have fulfilled a minimum of 45 credit hours of general studies in the arts, humanities and/or science at their undergraduate institution. Prior to enrollment in the program, candidates without an architectural background must have completed either a 3-credit university level course in general physics or two 3-credit courses in calculus, as well as a course in architectural graphic presentation (e.g. an architectural, environmental design, landscape, or visual arts studio). Applicants will be placed into the first or second year of the three-year program based on an evaluation of all application materials. To apply for advanced standing in the Master of Architecture program, candidates must demonstrate an ability to pursue advanced work in architectural design and provide a transcript of professional undergraduate or graduate coursework in an accredited professional degree program in architecture (accredited by National Architectural Accrediting Board in the US or by Canberra Accord for international students). The University of Kentucky School of Architecture provides financial and merit based scholarships to qualified students, whenever possible. If you wish to be considered for a scholarship, please submit your application by January 15.
Application Deadlines
Domestic Students
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Fall
- 07/25/2025
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Spring
- 12/01/2025
International Students
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Fall
- 04/15/2025
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Spring
- 09/15/2025
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Explore Funding Options
As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program!
Tuition Rate
For residents of the states listed below, this program qualifies you to receive the University of Kentucky's in-state tuition rate through the Academic Common Marketplace.
Delaware
West Virginia
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