Master of Architecture Application Requirement Descriptions

01 Application form

The application form is required from all applicants. You can find it at:

http://www.utsa.edu/graduate/Admission/index.html

02 Portfolio

A portfolio is required of all M.Arch, applicants, including those who do not have a previous architecture degree or background. The portfolio should include evidence of recent creative work: personal, academic and/or professional. Work done collaboratively should be identified as such and your role in the project defined. Choose what you care about, what you think is representative of your best work, and what is expressive of you. (See What to Include below)

We expect that the portfolio will be created solely by the applicant. While there is no strict format, all the material should be contained in one bound 8-1/2" x 11" (22 x 28 cm) document. We suggest that you select a limited number of examples, which best show your qualifications and capabilities. We also encourage applicants to submit reproductions of work instead of originals and to be judicious in the choice of reproduction methods. We will assume that copies represent the actual quality of the original work in regard to line character, color, value, finish and other visual characteristics. Do not submit 35 mm slides, loose sheets, original drawings. CD's or videos. Web-based portfolios are not acceptable and will not be reviewed. The admission committee is interested in the quality of the work submitted; therefore, you are advised not to lavish energy and expense on special or unusual packaging.

For the return of your portfolio, applicants in the US should include either a self-addressed stamped envelope (applicant is responsible for assuring correct postage amount), or arrange to pick up their portfolios at the end of the process.

What to include:

Admission to the Master of Architecture program is a competitive process with priority given to applicants whose apparent abilities will enable them to complete the program expeditiously and with a high level of achievement. In evaluating applicants, a number of factors are taken into account by the Admissions Committee. The portfolio is a means whereby the candidate is best able to communicate the full range of their past experiences and future direction. It should include work, which demonstrates experience and ability in visual arts and design. The portfolio is of primary significance for candidates from design backgrounds who desire entry to the M. Arch Program; however, applicants from other fields are also asked to show some graphic evidence of interest and aptitude in the design arts as well. The Committee considers the following types of work to be suitable for inclusion with an applicant’s samples:
graphic design,
photography,
paintings,
freehand drawings,
building design drawings,
analytical investigations (structural and environmental systems),
building programming,
measured and working drawings,
computer generated drawings,
and other types of work which best represent the applicant’s knowledge, aptitudes and experience.
Two or three items showing the development of a plan, detail, or concept from early schematics to finished presentation are especially appropriate. The portfolio should be considered a design problem in itself.

Also you may wish to include a sample of your written work, if appropriate to your course of study and as further evidence of past scholarship or other abilities. Limit your submission to one or two items and provide an introductory context for each. (i.e. This paper written in response to …) Samples of written work and may be particularly appropriate for the research-based study programs.

03 Letters of recommendation

Two letters of recommendation are required for all applicants. Recommendations should be on the forms provided with the application. Applicants are encouraged to request that referees use the online recommendation form. If recommendations are sent on University or company/firm stationery, be sure the applicant’s full name is prominent or attach the letter to the recommendation form provided.

04 Statement of purpose

A Statement of Purpose is looked at for clarity, purpose and the extent to which the program can be expected to prepare him/her for those objectives. The Statement of Purpose is particularly significant and the candidate should suggest a direction within UTSA's coursework as well as identify faculty that may be involved in their study.

05 GRE

The Graduate Record Exam is required when applying to the Master of Architecture (M.Arch) and Master of Science (M.S. Arch) programs The Department of Architecture does not set a minimum GRE score. Scores are evaluated in relation to the other evidence submitted with your application. All that is required is the general test consisting of the Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical sections. You DO NOT have to take any subject tests. Test scores must be received directly from ETS to be considered official. UTSA does not accept photocopies of test scores. The Educational Testing Service (ETS) code for the University of Texas at San Antonio is 6919. Information about the times and places of test administration may be obtained directly from the Educational Testing Service.

It is recommended that candidates take the GRE on the earliest possible test date. the latest possible date to receive these test scores is February 1. Test scores must be no older than five years.

06 Official transcripts

The University and College of Architecture requires applicants, domestic and international, to provide official transcripts or certified credentials from all universities and community colleges attended. The applicant is responsible for making sure transcripts are sent and arrive at UTSA. For international students please review our policies at: http://www.utsa.edu/graduate/International/internationalAdmission.html