UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · UNITED STATES
Master of Science in Design: Advanced Architectural Design (MSD-AAD)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
18 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€71k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
The Master of Science in Design with a concentration in Advanced Architectural Design (MSD-AAD) is a three-semester program designed for architects who hold a five-year professional bachelor's degree. This program does not lead to a professional architecture license but focuses on advancing design innovation. It aims to prepare students for high-level design research in both professional practice and academia, equipping them with advanced digital tools and critical theoretical engagement with contemporary architectural discourse. The program emphasizes integrating advanced digital modeling techniques into a design methodology that impacts material development, production, fabrication, and construction processes, as well as their aesthetics. The curriculum begins with a mandatory ten-day workshop in design techniques, followed by a semester of advanced architectural design and related courses. Students then join the Master of Architecture program for a year to pursue an individually directed course of study through advanced studios and electives.
Curriculum
The program spans three semesters and includes a total of 14 course units. It begins with a summer institute, followed by two semesters of specialized coursework, and concludes with a summer of advanced fabrication and study.
- First Year - Summer
- Advanced Architectural Design Digital WorkshopARCH 7920
- First Year - Fall
- Advanced Architectural Design StudioARCH 7030
- Contemporary Theory 1993-PresentARCH 7100
- Architecture Design InnovationARCH 7410
- ARCH elective
- First Year - Spring
- MSD-AAD Design Research StudioARCH 7050
- New Materials and MethodsARCH 7330
- Contemporary Aesthetic TheoryARCH 7150
- ARCH electives
- Second Year - Summer
- AAD Fabrication StudioARCH 7070
- Visual Literacy and its CultureARCH 7200
- Robotic FabricationARCH 7470
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Master of Science in Design: Advanced Architectural Design (MSD-AAD) program?
- Applicants must hold a five-year professional bachelor's degree in architecture from a US or international institution. A minimum GPA of 3.00 is required for graduation.
- What is the duration and structure of the MSD-AAD program?
- The MSD-AAD program is a three-semester program. It begins with a summer institute, followed by two semesters of specialized coursework, and concludes with a summer focused on advanced fabrication and study.
- What are the estimated tuition fees for the MSD-AAD program?
- For the Fall 2026/Spring 2027 academic year, the estimated tuition is $41,652 per semester, totaling $83,304 for the degree. This includes the General Fee and the Clinical Fee.
- Does the MSD-AAD program lead to a professional architecture license?
- No, this program does not lead to a professional architecture license. It focuses on advancing design innovation and preparing students for high-level design research.
- How do I apply to the MSD-AAD program?
- Prospective students should apply directly to the MSD-AAD program. Inquiries regarding the admissions process, specific requirements, and deadlines should be directed to the academic program itself.
- What are the career prospects after completing the MSD-AAD program?
- The program is designed to prepare students for high-level design research in professional practice or academia, focusing on contemporary issues and advanced design methodologies.
Entry requirements
Professional Bachelor's Degree in ArchitectureA five-year professional bachelor's degree in architecture from a US or international institution is required. A minimum GPA of 3.00 is necessary for graduation.
This program does not lead to a professional degree in architecture.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition is charged per course unit (c.u.). For the Fall 2026/Spring 2027 academic year, the estimated tuition is $41,652 per semester, totaling $83,304 for the degree. This includes a General Fee ($2,134 per semester) and a Clinical Fee ($385 per semester).
Tuition (home)Tuition is charged per course unit (c.u.). For the Fall 2026/Spring 2027 academic year, the estimated tuition is $41,652 per semester, totaling $83,304 for the degree. This includes a General Fee ($2,134 per semester) and a Clinical Fee ($385 per semester).
LivingLiving costs are not specified.
Tuition and fee charges are subject to approval by the Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania and may change without notice. Accurate rates for Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 will be updated in Spring 2026. The General Fee supports non-instructional student services, and the Clinical Fee supports Penn Wellness services.
How to apply
1. Identify Program of InterestResearch and select the Advanced Architectural Design (MSD-AAD) program at the University of Pennsylvania's Stuart Weitzman School of Design.
2. Direct Inquiries to ProgramContact the MSD-AAD program directly for specific application requirements, deadlines, and any questions related to the admissions process.
3. Submit ApplicationFollow the program's specific instructions for submitting your application, which typically includes academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a portfolio.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Master of Science in Design: Advanced Architectural Design (MSD-AAD) program?
+
Applicants must hold a five-year professional bachelor's degree in architecture from a US or international institution. A minimum GPA of 3.00 is required for graduation.
What is the duration and structure of the MSD-AAD program?
+
The MSD-AAD program is a three-semester program. It begins with a summer institute, followed by two semesters of specialized coursework, and concludes with a summer focused on advanced fabrication and study.
What are the estimated tuition fees for the MSD-AAD program?
+
For the Fall 2026/Spring 2027 academic year, the estimated tuition is $41,652 per semester, totaling $83,304 for the degree. This includes the General Fee and the Clinical Fee.
Does the MSD-AAD program lead to a professional architecture license?
+
No, this program does not lead to a professional architecture license. It focuses on advancing design innovation and preparing students for high-level design research.
How do I apply to the MSD-AAD program?
+
Prospective students should apply directly to the MSD-AAD program. Inquiries regarding the admissions process, specific requirements, and deadlines should be directed to the academic program itself.
What are the career prospects after completing the MSD-AAD program?
+
The program is designed to prepare students for high-level design research in professional practice or academia, focusing on contemporary issues and advanced design methodologies.