Dear Prospective Graduate Students,
We are pleased that you are considering NC State University School of Architecture for your graduate degree. We offer two degrees: the Master of Architecture (MArch), an accredited degree that allows you to become a licensed architect in the United States; and the Master of Advanced Architectural Studies (MAAS), a research-based degree for students who do not need an accredited degree. We are an intimate school with dedicated faculty and wonderful students. This page showcases all of the exciting things that we are doing in the school and to answer your questions about the school, college, and university.
Director of Graduate Programs
Traci Rider, PhD // Email Traci
Explore our School of Architecture Facilities
Learn about our Precast Concrete Studio
Recordings from the 2022 Graduate Open House
Frequently Asked Questions
Please review the following for answers to frequently asked questions about the program. If you have any additional questions, email design_graduate@ncsu.edu.
About the Program
The School of Architecture offers students the opportunity to engage with experienced faculty and prepare to assume responsible roles in the profession of architecture. Our M. Arch program is a STEM-designated program. We offer two NAAB-accredited tracks. The Track 1 program for students with a 4-year pre-professional bachelor’s degree in architecture, and the Track 3 program for students who hold undergraduate degrees in a subject other than architecture. Master of Advanced Architectural Studies is not NAAB accredited and is a research-based innovative program.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
You can find information about financial support and funding opportunities through the graduate school here. Similar information for international applicants can be found here. Applicants are considered for scholarships from the School of Architecture after they are awarded admission. There is no additional application for scholarships.
How to Apply
You can start your application through the NC State Graduate School Website here.
GRE Requirement
GRE scores are no longer a requirement for admission to the Master of Architecture program. Any scores listed in an application will not impact admissions consideration.
Application Fee
There is a fee for every application submitted. We understand that this fee may be difficult for some of our applicants to pay, particularly if they are from outside the country; however, the College of Design is unable to waive application fees. The NC State Graduate School generally will not waive the application fee, except in cases of documented financial need and special circumstances. If you would like to request a fee waiver, first submit your application. Next, contact Dr. David Shafer, david_shafer@ncsu.edu, in the admissions office for more information.
English Proficiency Requirement
English proficiency is a requirement for successful graduate studies at NC State. Students may be granted provisional status when they do not fully meet all the necessary requirements for admission to the Graduate School, but their circumstances warrant provisional admission. The Graduate School standards for demonstration of proficiency, which are necessary in order to be admitted to graduate study, may be found here.
* In addition to TOEFL and IELTS scores we accept Duolingo scores with a minimum score of 110.
Teaching and Research Assistantships
Applicants have the possibility of being granted a Teaching or Research Assistantship through the School of Architecture. These positions are based on applications and availability of positions. The School of Architecture is able to offer some scholarships and Graduate Student Support Plans (GSSP), and those are typically awarded to top applicants. There is no separate application for these positions, they are awarded based on the strength of an application to the School. Because the Master of Architecture is a professional program, most students self-fund their education.
Housing and Parking
NC State offers on-campus housing options for graduate students. You can review more information here.
You can review the NC State Transportation Website for information about bus routes and parking.
International Student Admissions
The University offers a detailed list of all the things you need to know as an International Applicant.
STEM Designation
The Master of Architecture (Track 1 and 3) are STEM Designated majors.
Certificates and Concentration
Master of Architecture students can enroll in one of the 4 certificate programs or the History and Theory Concentration offered by the College of Design. These programs do not require additional classes, they just require a careful selection of courses and electives. You can find more information about certificates and the History and Theory concentration here.
On-Campus Jobs
NC State University offers a number of student employment opportunites through Campus Enterprises, the Wellness & Recreation Center, Student Centers, NCSU Libraries, University Housing, University Theatre, the Office of Global Engagement, Student Leadership & Engagement, NC State Dining, and the Global Training Initiative.
Application Submission Questions
For questions regarding submitting application materials (English Proficiency Scores, Transcripts, etc.) contact the university graduate admissions office. Their contact information can be found here: https://grad.ncsu.edu/about/contact-us/