Registration now open for CAAD summer camps

cem123 — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 22:40:36 +0000

Registration now open for CAAD summer camps cem123 Thursday, April 20, 2023 - 5:40 pm

ɫ��tv of Architecture to host Design Leadership Foundation Professional Horizons Workshop

cem123 — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 14:53:45 +0000

ɫ��tv of Architecture to host Design Leadership Foundation Professional Horizons Workshop cem123 Wednesday, September 1, 2021 - 9:53 am

CAAD, MSU to offer more summer classes online at reduced rate

cem123 — Tue, 12 May 2020 16:59:42 +0000

CAAD, MSU to offer more summer classes online at reduced rate cem123 Tuesday, May 12, 2020 - 11:59 am

Master of Science in Architecture

awl22 — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 19:36:19 +0000

Master of Science in Architecture

Do you want to make an impact and help answer some of the critical questions affecting the built environment?

The Master of Science in architecture is designed for graduates from various design fields who wish to explore their passions through research and advanced visualization processes.

This post-professional graduate degree will equip you to address the issues that matter to you through its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary architectural research. As a student, you will be given the opportunity and means to develop individual research agendas, mutually aligning with program and faculty research agendas, and to collaborate with faculty and student colleagues on projects undertaken by the college. Applied research is encouraged with related industries, architectural firms and other research units.

Curriculum

What does the program of study look like?

Students can choose one of two study track options:

Thesis: Requires 32 credit hours (26 graduate level course hours and 6 credit hours of research/thesis) and a comprehensive examination.
Non-Thesis: Requires 32 graduate level credit hours and a comprehensive examination.

Concentration : Advanced Visualization

Major Required Courses
ARC 6113 Architecture Colloquium	3
ARC 6114 Professional Practice Strategies	4
ARC 8224 ɫ��tv and Writing	4

Advanced Visualization Concentration

Required Courses:
ARC 6633 Architecture and Virtual Spaces	3
ARC 8114 Digital Design I	4
ARC 6152 Digital Design I Laboratory	2
ARC 8124 Digital Design II	4
ARC 6162 Digital Design II Laboratory	2

Thesis Option – 6 hours of Coursework:	6
ARC 9000 Thesis ɫ��tv/ Thesis in Architecture

Non-Thesis Option – Minimum 6 hours of Selected Coursework as Approved by Committee:	6
ARC 8134 Digital Design III
ARC 8172 Digital Design III Laboratory
ARC 8444 Interactive Media
ARC 6990 Special Topics in Architecture
ARC 7000 Directed Individual Study in Architecture

Total Hours

32 Thesis

32 Non-Thesis

Application

What are you waiting for? Get started today.

Applications are now open for fall 2026 enrollment.

Applicants must have earned a bachelor’s degree from a fully accredited four-year educational institution with a minimum 3.00 GPA and demonstrate competence in design, construction or related academic work. Competence may be demonstrated through grades of B or better in design and computer science courses or through the submission of a portfolio.
International students must have a Test of English as a Foreign Language score of 600 PBT (250 CBT or 100 iBT) or an IELTS (International English Language Testing Systems) score of 7.5 or above and should submit GRE scores.

Applications can be submitted through The Graduate ɫ��tv.

Apply Now

ɫ��tv/Teaching Assistantships may be available for students in the thesis track.

Contact

Silvina Lopez Barrera

Coordinator and associate professor

slopezbarrera@caad.msstate.edu

662-325-2202

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the program take?

Our Master of Science in Architecture is 32 credit hours. Most students will complete the requirements within two years.

Is the program offered in person or online?

You’ll complete this master’s program fully in person on campus in Starkville to allow face-to-face collaboration with classmates and faculty and give access to our equipped studios and fabrication labs.

What sets this degree apart?

MSU’s Master of Science in Architecture offers a flexible, research-driven approach to graduate architectural education. This degree combines research, advanced visualization and applied learning to help students build specialized expertise, develop a distinctive body of work and position themselves for advanced opportunities in architectural practice or doctoral study.

How will this program make me stand out in the job market?

Graduates may pursue advanced opportunities in architectural practice, design research, advanced visualization or doctoral study. They will be equipped to work in private-sector firms, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, community development, urban development, museums and academia. Through the program, students also develop leadership, management and communication skills that prepare them to contribute effectively in professional, research and interdisciplinary settings.

What are the admission requirements?

Requirements include a portfolio, statement of purpose, curriculum vitae, official transcripts, and three letters of recommendation. See more details below.

1. Portfolio (submitted digitally as a single PDF file, letter size, 10 pages, maximum of 30 MB).

The portfolio should present a cohesive selection of your best work that reflects your previous experience and creative abilities. Content is not limited to any specific subject area and may include both graphic and written materials. If the portfolio includes collaborative projects (academic or professional), clearly specify your individual role and contributions.

2. Statement of Purpose (1500 words)

Your statement of purpose should outline your academic and professional interests, including:

The concentration you are applying for
Your research interests and career goals
Relevant previous study, work experience, research, or publications in the field

3. Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages)

Provide a concise CV highlighting your educational background, professional experience, achievements, and other relevant information.

4. Official Transcripts

The Graduate ɫ��tv at Mississippi State University requires official transcripts from each admitted student.

5. Letters of Recommendation (3 required)

Submit contact information of three references, who are familiar with your academic or professional background. Each recommender should be able to comment directly on your qualifications for graduate-level study and, if applicable, your potential for teaching or research.

Does the program offer opportunities for graduate assistantships?

The program offers competitive graduate research/teaching assistantships, which help cover tuition and provide monthly stipends. These assistantships give students the opportunity to gain meaningful research/ teaching experience, work closely with faculty, and contribute to projects that address important questions in architecture and the built environment.

What digital tools will I learn?

Courses incorporate Rhino, Revit, Grasshopper, BIM workflows, Adobe Suite, VR/AR tools, and more.

What fabrication resources are available?

Students have access to woodshops, metal shops, CNC routers, laser cutters, and 3D printers as well as opportunities to work with the College’s Advanced Visualization Lab and the Housing and Resilience ɫ��tv Lab.

What materials or equipment will I need?

Students typically need drafting tools, model making supplies, and required software. A high performance laptop is recommended. Computer labs are also available.

awl22 Friday, June 19, 2026 - 2:36 pm

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CAAD faculty recognized at international conference

cem123 — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 18:46:08 +0000

CAAD faculty recognized at international conference cem123 Wednesday, June 17, 2026 - 1:46 pm

Edward McGinnis

cem123 — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 15:17:10 +0000

Edward McGinnis cem123 Monday, April 6, 2026 - 10:17 am

Sr. Fiscal Operations Business Manager

emcginnis@caad.msstate.edu662-325-3422

Major

CAAD

Noefm4

Dean's Office

Staff

1303 Hunter Henry Center

Commencement (CAAD majors)

cem123 — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 16:24:20 +0000

Commencement (CAAD majors) CAAD cem123 Wednesday, April 1, 2026 - 11:24 am No2026-05-15T09:30:00-0500 2026-05-15T11:00:00-0500 Humphrey Coliseumhttps://www.registrar.msstate.edu/calendars/academic-calendar/2026/spring

ɫ��tv of Architecture & Department of Interior Design Career Fair

amw1419 — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 17:26:17 +0000

ɫ��tv of Architecture & Department of Interior Design Career Fair amw1419 Tuesday, February 17, 2026 - 11:26 am

The ɫ��tv of Architecture & Department of Interior Design Career Fair was held on February 12, 2026, in Giles Hall. There were 277 students and 38 employers in attendance.

CAAD

Image (Thumbnail)

CAAD Academic Insight

cem123 — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 20:53:39 +0000

CAAD Academic Insight CAAD cem123 Wednesday, December 17, 2025 - 2:53 pm No2026-02-07T09:30:00-0600 2026-02-07T12:30:00-0600 Giles, various breakout locations

For admitted MSU students and guests. Registration opens Jan. 6, 2026. https://www.admissions.msstate.edu/visit/academic-insight

Full schedule and details coming soon.

Mock interviews with Design Leadership Foundation professionals

cem123 — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 20:52:37 +0000

Mock interviews with Design Leadership Foundation professionals CAAD cem123 Wednesday, December 17, 2025 - 2:52 pm Yes2026-01-23T14:52:38-0600 2025-01-23T12:00:00-0600 TBD

More details to come. All architecture, interior design, and landscape architecture students.