Master of Science in Architectural Sciences

The Master of Science degree in Architectural Sciences offers graduate study in three distinct concentrations: Architectural Acoustics Built Ecologies Lighting At the Master’s level, each concentration offers a distinct curriculum intended to prepare graduates to enter specialized design practice, consultancy, or to attain the minimum credential for teaching in higher education. Typically, the knowledge gained in the master’s degree is foundational to the pursuit of the PhD, and the degree is considered preparatory to advanced research-based work. The degree culminates in a master’s thesis. Architectural Acoustics The School of Architecture offers the largest and most comprehensive program in Architectural Acoustics in North America. The program develops the knowledge and skills required for advanced consultancy, research, and teaching. Graduates are active in leading acoustical practices worldwide and take positions at research centers and national laboratories. The PhD program provides a unique opportunity in architectural acoustics by generating scientific research for advanced work in room acoustics, psychoacoustics, acoustic and vibration measurement techniques, noise control, and sound reinforcement. Research is supported by the National Science Foundation and other federal agencies. The program has an ongoing relationship with Rensselaer’s innovative Experimental Media and Performing Arts Center, among other institutions. Eligibility: The program offers an interdisciplinary curriculum appropriate to applicants from engineering, science, humanities, architecture, and the arts. Many students are accomplished musicians. Built Ecologies The Graduate Program in Built Ecologies develops innovative buildings systems, structures, and ecologies informed by the behavior of natural systems and emerging technologies. The program offers MS and PhD degrees in Architectural Sciences with a concentration in Built Ecologies. Eligibility: The Built Ecologies program attracts students with backgrounds in architecture and design, engineering, physics, biology, and ecology. Lighting: The concentration in lighting within the Master of Science in Architectural Sciences degree allows students from a variety of disciplines to pursue a multidisciplinary graduate degree related to lighting practice. Geared toward the needs of professionals either currently working or wishing to pursue careers in the lighting industry or design fields, this nine-month, 30-credit degree exposes students to a wide range of topics within lighting including the physics of light, lighting technology, human factors, design, and application. It also allows students to concentrate their research or design work in a particular area of interest by pursuing a master’s project.