MS Architecture at Rice University

Programme overview

The MS in Architecture is a thesis or non-thesis degree structured around a three-semester exploration of a topic led by a Rice School of Architecture faculty member. Applicants with a BA, BS or more advanced degree in architecture or other disciplines are invited to apply.

Faculty: School of Architecture | Department: Architecture | Duration: 3 semesters (39 credit hours) | Study mode: full-time | Location: Houston, TX, United States

What you will study

ARCH 602 Advanced Option Studio II: Research Platforms (12 credits), seven ARCH electives (21 credits), ARCH 525/HART 545 Introduction to Architectural Thinking and ARCH 655 Contemporary Practices in Architecture. Coursework includes offerings from other Rice departments.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Programme: a BA, BS equivalent or more advanced degree in architecture or other disciplines. Rice graduate programmes (university level): applicants should generally have at least a 3.0 (B) undergraduate GPA or equivalent; the GRE is generally not required, though individual programmes may recommend, strongly recommend or require it; a statement of purpose and reference letters may be required depending on the programme. International applicants need TOEFL iBT 90, IELTS 7 or Duolingo English Test 115 unless they hold a degree from an accredited US institution or an English-medium institution. Admission is decided at programme level.

Requirements published at program group level.

Fall 2027 entry; most doctoral programmes close December 1, 2026; professional master's programmes such as MCS, MDS, MME and MChE use rolling or later deadlines (May 1 international, July 1 domestic).

Master's application fee is $85. Mechanical Engineering MME and Chemical Engineering MChE close May 1 (international) and July 1 (domestic) for Fall; Computer Science MCS/MDS close between February 10, 2027 (scholarship consideration) and July 1, 2027.

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