The Master of Architecture program at Cal Poly Pomona is an accredited professional degree committed to preparing graduates for licensure and active participation in the field of architecture.  The 3-year (90-unit) program is geared towards individuals who have completed a bachelor's degree in a major other than architecture or with a pre-professional undergraduate degree in architecture. Emphasizing the mastery of design, the program combines a rigorous series of design studios with comprehensive support lecture courses. Lecture courses in architecture theory and history, building technology, codes, digital media, human behavior, professional practice, programming, structures, and sustainability, are closely coordinated with the studio sequence.

The first-year design studio sequence provides a general introduction to architectural principles explored throughout a student’s experience at Cal Poly. Students develop design and critical thinking skills as well as a proficiency to communicate spatial ideas effectively. The second-year design sequence builds upon this foundation with increasing complexity. In the final year of study, students are required to prepare a culminating Master’s Degree Project that serves as a transition from graduate school to professional life.

Applicants who have successfully completed a pre-professional 4-year degree in architecture or a 5-year international professional degree may be considered for advanced standing. Admissions with advanced standing are based on the admissions committee’s evaluation of the applicant’s portfolio and undergraduate transcripts indicating first-year curriculum equivalencies in design, history, structures, and environmental controls. Students admitted with advanced standing will pursue a 2-year 60-semester unit trajectory through the program.