Hey, I'm really interested in pursuing architecture for my career and discovered that Michigan State offers a program. Anyone here have personal experience or know someone who's been through the architecture program at MSU? What's the curriculum like, and are there good opportunities for internships and networking?
Hello! Michigan State offers a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Design (BAED), which is an interdisciplinary program housed in the School of Planning, Design and Construction (SPDC). The BAED program enables students to learn design principles, as well as gain knowledge in areas like urban and regional planning, landscape architecture, and construction management. Students will also learn sustainable and environmental design concepts. This interdisciplinary approach allows you to not only focus on architecture but also develop a broader understanding of the built environment.
The curriculum involves a mix of lecture, studio, and seminar courses, offering an opportunity to study design, history, and technology. Additionally, students of the BAED program can choose a concentration within the program - either Design and Planning or Building Construction. This allows you to tailor your degree to your specific interests and career goals.
Regarding internships and networking, MSU has resources in place to help students find opportunities. They offer career fairs, an internship fair specifically focused on the design and construction industry, as well as opportunities to work on real-world projects through the university's partnerships. Students can also get involved in organizations like the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) chapter at MSU, which can provide additional networking opportunities.
Keep in mind that the BAED program is not an accredited professional architecture degree, which you would need if you want to become a licensed architect. However, many students choose to pursue a Master of Architecture (M.Arch) degree after completing their studies at MSU to fulfill this requirement.
Overall, the architecture program at Michigan State offers a strong foundation in environmental design with opportunities for internships and networking. It can be a great choice if you're looking for an interdisciplinary study approach and are planning to pursue a master's degree in architecture later on.
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