The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee has received approval from the UW System Board of Regents to launch a new Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) program, which will offer an alternative to the current four-year bachelor’s degree program, allowing graduates a quicker and more affordable path to licensure and practice.
The current four-year bachelor’s degree program, the Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies (BSAS), provides a foundation for students who intend to pursue a master’s and/or doctoral degree prior to becoming a licensed architect.
The new program will begin enrolling students in the fall 2023 semester, although more than 100 current BSAS students have switched their major to the five-year BArch program.
The new program is on track to be accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board, which means students who graduate will be eligible to take the licensure exam necessary to practice architecture in every U.S. state.
UWM’s School of Architecture and Urban Planning is the only public institution in Wisconsin that offers a professional, accredited architecture program.
“We are thrilled to offer this new program to our students,” said Interim Dean Mo Zell. “We have designed this program to address the industry’s need for career-ready talent while also being an accessible option for a wider variety of students. Our faculty members are experts in their fields, and they are committed to providing students with a supportive and challenging educational experience.”
The program also allows UWM BSAS alumni to complete the required credits to earn a BArch as a second degree. For more information, register for a virtual, lunch-hour information session for alumni on March 30.
For more information, prospective students and alumni can visit the BArch webpage. Applications for fall 2023 are open now.
