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MS Critical, Curatorial and Conceptual Practices in Architecture at Columbia University

Columbia University, United States

Programme overview

The MS in Critical, Curatorial and Conceptual Practices is a two-year, full-time programme of intensive study and independent research, with the second year devoted mainly to a thesis.

Faculty: Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation  |  Department: Architecture  |  Duration: 2 years  |  Intake: Summer  |  Study mode: full-time  |  Location: New York, NY, United States

What you will study

Required colloquia (Operating Platforms; Documents and Discourse), electives in history and theory and across Columbia, and a thesis taking the form of written thesis, critical writings portfolio, visualization, exhibition or publication.

Career pathways

Architectural critic, theorist, journalist, historian, editor, publisher, curator, gallerist, institute staff or director, teacher, research-based practitioner, and preparation for PhD study in architectural history and theory.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

GSAPP master's applicants: three letters of recommendation, about 500-word statement, $75 application fee, GRE optional (no minimum score); TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo accepted for non-native English speakers (no minimum stated). Four-year bachelor's degree or equivalent including at least four classes in architecture, architectural history or a related aesthetic or cultural practice. Portfolio (writing, visual material or both) single PDF of 20 pages or fewer. Deadline January 15, 2027.

Intake: Summer

Duration: 2 years full-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.arch.columbia.edu/admissions

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