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Master of Science in Architecture Application Process

M.S.Arch Student in the Studio

M.S.Arch Student in the Studio

The Master of Science in Architecture program caters to professionals who wish to continue with higher research and design skills in those areas. It will additionally prepare those who wish to develop parallel careers in teaching and/or continue work toward a related Ph.D. degree at another institution. 

The Master of Science in Architecture program is designated as a STEM program, making international M.S.Arch graduates eligible to extend their F-1 visas for up to three years in order to work in the United States.

Dates and Deadlines

Application Deadline: January 5
Decision Notification: March 15

Application Instructions

Application Steps
  • You must hold a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch), Master of Architecture I (M.Arch I) or an equivalent degree from an international institution
  • A completed Master of Science in Architecture application
  • A written essay succinctly explaining your interest in the Master of Science in Architecture program as well as the specified area of concentration
  • Examples of written work (previously completed written work such as essays, research papers, thesis statements, etc.)
  • A portfolio including your most important and representative design and written work. The portfolio should consist of professional, academic, and/or scholarly work. No physical portfolios will be accepted. ALL portfolio submissions must be made electronically through the application portal.
  • One year of work experience after obtaining your first professional degree is recommended
  • Official TOEFL, IELTS, or DET scores (if Bachelor’s degree was taught in a language other than English)
    • We do not accept results from: IELTS Indicator, TOEFL ITP Plus for China, TOEFL Essentials, and PTE Academic Online.
  • Official copies of all post-secondary transcripts, including college/university transcripts
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • $75 application fee or fee waiver
  • Resume 
Interviews

Potential candidates may be required to participate in a virtual interview.

International Student Requirements 

International Student Requirements 

If you have questions about our undergraduate application process, please attend an info session and check out our FAQs.

 

 

 

  • Founded by inventor, industrialist and philanthropist Peter Cooper in 1859, The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art offers education in art, architecture and engineering, as well as courses in the humanities and social sciences.

  • “My feelings, my desires, my hopes, embrace humanity throughout the world,” Peter Cooper proclaimed in a speech in 1853. He looked forward to a time when, “knowledge shall cover the earth as waters cover the great deep.”

  • From its beginnings, Cooper Union was a unique institution, dedicated to founder Peter Cooper's proposition that education is the key not only to personal prosperity but to civic virtue and harmony.

  • Peter Cooper wanted his graduates to acquire the technical mastery and entrepreneurial skills, enrich their intellects and spark their creativity, and develop a sense of social justice that would translate into action.