Embarking on a career in architecture is an exciting journey, and the path to becoming a licensed architect is now more accessible than ever with Online Architecture Degree programs. For those who have already laid the foundation with an AAS degree in architectural drafting or a related field, Dunwoody College of Technology offers a unique and efficient route: a Bachelor of Architecture completion program that can be earned online in just three years.
This isn’t just any online program. Dunwoody’s Bachelor of Architecture stands out by providing a practice-based, nationally accredited curriculum designed to equip graduates with the skills and experience needed to excel in the architectural profession and tackle pressing global design challenges.
Why Choose an Online Architecture Degree?
The demand for skilled architects is growing, and an online architecture degree offers a flexible and convenient way to enter this rewarding field. Dunwoody’s program is specifically tailored for students who are looking to build upon their existing architectural education and professional experience. It acknowledges the evolving needs of modern students by offering:
- Flexibility: Learn from anywhere, fitting your studies around your life and work commitments.
- Efficiency: A streamlined three-year completion program gets you to your career goals faster.
- Career Advancement: Enhance your career prospects and earning potential with a Bachelor of Architecture.
Dunwoody’s Bachelor of Architecture: Key Program Highlights
Dunwoody College of Technology distinguishes itself through several key features that make its online architecture degree program exceptional:
Practice-Based Learning: Bridging Theory and Practice
At the heart of Dunwoody’s approach is a practice-based curriculum. This philosophy is embedded in every course, ensuring that students don’t just learn about architecture—they actively do architecture. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, design-build projects, and real-world applications, making graduates job-ready from day one.
Nationally Accredited: Ensuring Quality and Recognition
Accreditation is paramount when choosing an online architecture degree, and Dunwoody’s Bachelor of Architecture is fully accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). This accreditation signifies that the program meets rigorous academic standards and provides a quality education that is recognized and respected across the architectural profession. It’s a crucial factor for licensure eligibility and career advancement.
Integrated Path to Architectural Licensure (IPAL)
Dunwoody’s program is also part of the prestigious Integrated Path to Architectural Licensure (IPAL) initiative. This innovative pathway allows students to gain the required experience for licensure while completing their degree. Imagine graduating not only with your Bachelor of Architecture but also being on the fast track to becoming a licensed architect. This is a significant advantage, saving time and accelerating career progression.
Technology-Rich Learning Environment
To ensure students have the best tools for success in their online architecture degree, Dunwoody provides each Bachelor of Architecture student with a dedicated touch-screen laptop. This laptop comes pre-loaded with essential industry-standard software, including Autodesk and Adobe programs. Students have access to these powerful resources throughout their enrollment, enabling them to develop cutting-edge design and representation skills.
Faculty Expertise: Learn from Practicing Architects
Dunwoody’s faculty are not just educators; they are actively practicing architects. This ensures that the curriculum is current, relevant, and directly aligned with the demands of the architectural profession. Students benefit from the real-world insights and professional networks of their instructors, gaining invaluable mentorship and guidance.
Curriculum Overview: Years 3, 4, and 5
The +3 Bachelor of Architecture completion program is structured over three years, each building upon the previous one to provide a comprehensive architectural education:
Year 3: Design Thinking and Foundations
The first year focuses on developing core design thinking skills through hands-on model making and digital representation using Autodesk and Adobe software. Students are introduced to fundamental architectural concepts, including site analysis, client needs, program development, and a global perspective on architectural history and diverse built environment traditions.
Year 4: Community Engagement and Global Perspectives
Year four studios emphasize research and community engagement through participatory design models and real-world projects. The curriculum expands to include urbanism, activism, globalization, and vernacular architecture. Students often engage in study abroad programs and design-build projects, enhancing their 3D representation and fabrication skills while broadening their cultural and societal understanding.
Year 5: Integrative and Experimental Design
The final year culminates in two distinct studios. The first semester focuses on a technically rigorous integrative studio, while the second semester offers an individualized, experimental studio project. This final project allows students to specialize in an area of interest, such as design-build, fabrication, or climate justice in architecture, fostering deep expertise.
Affiliations and Industry Connections
Dunwoody’s Bachelor of Architecture program is deeply connected to the architectural community through affiliations with leading organizations, including:
- NAAB (National Architectural Accrediting Board)
- AIA (American Institute of Architects) – Minnesota Chapter
- AIAS (American Institute of Architecture Students)
- NOMAS (The National Organization of Minority Architects)
- CSI (Construction Specifications Institute) – Minnesota Chapter
- ACSA (Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture)
- ACADIA (Association of Computer Aided Design In Architecture)
These affiliations provide students with networking opportunities, industry insights, and a strong professional foundation.
Career Outlook for Architecture Graduates
Graduates with an online architecture degree from Dunwoody can look forward to a promising career outlook. The architecture field is projected to grow, and Dunwoody graduates are well-prepared to meet this demand.
Occupational Outlook:
- +18% Growth 2012-2022 (above average growth rate in architecture occupations)
An online architecture degree from Dunwoody College of Technology is more than just a degree; it’s a launchpad to a successful and impactful career in architecture. With its practice-based approach, NAAB accreditation, IPAL integration, and focus on real-world skills, Dunwoody provides an unparalleled online learning experience for aspiring architects.
