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The Robert Cene four-year program in architecture leads to the pre-professional degree of Bachelor of Science in Architecture. The first two years of this program emphasize liberal arts studies and fundamentals in architectural design, theory and history. The third and fourth years develop abilities in architectural design and building technologies culminating in the Integrated Design Competition Studio where the totality of knowledge gained in the curriculum is brought to bear in the studio experience. 

PROGRAM LAYOUT

FIRST YEAR

Studio begins immediately and focuses on the comprehension of space and its relationship to the individual.   What creates space? How do we differentiate space and represent it in both two and three dimensions?   How does space affect human perception, vitality and action? The year also provides a basis for understanding the terminology of design and construction, while establishing the design process and critical thinking as the basis for further study.

SECOND YEAR

This year sets the groundwork for building technologies that will develop in depth throughout the remainder of the degree. Studios are designed to provide opportunities to concentrate on programming, spatial relationships, the differences between private, semi-private and public spaces, circulation and how to integrate function with aesthetics to create environments that serve individuals and society simultaneously.

THIRD YEAR

Technology enters the curriculum in significant ways, from the use of computer design programs in studio projects to knowledge of building systems. Structure, materials, environmental systems and lighting all become vital parts of the curriculum. Studio courses address “context”, whether that be topography and landscaping, or urban relationships and the creation of designs responsive to specific city locations. This year also provides an option for a semester of study in Florence, Italy which is integrated into the curriculum.

FOURTH YEAR

Although sustainability is woven throughout the curriculum, this year concentrates on that aspect of design and the responsibilities of the designer to address the future of the planet and society. Perhaps the greatest challenge in this year is the “Integrated Design Studio” that demands that students draw upon all their knowledge gained to date, and incorporate it into a single project of significant size and uses, while following the principles of the living building challenge.  The final studio semester requires the student to perform in a manner that replicates an architect in practice.

THREE EXPERIENCES REQUIRED TO BE A REGISTERED ARCHITECT

The candidate must first complete a NAAB accredited professional degree. Second, the candidate must complete the  Intern Development Program (IDP) as administered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB). Third, the candidate must pass all sections of the Architect Registration Exam (ARE), also administered by NCARB. Upon successful completion of these activities, a new architect is granted the initial license to practice architecture in the state where the exam was taken. A separate license is required for each state.