Professor Michael Aurbach, Pre-Architecture Adviser
Department of Art
(615) 322-8437, (615) 322-2831

The recommendations below will help students prepare for most graduate programs in architecture, landscape architecture, environmental design, urban planning, historic preservation, architectural history, and related fields.

Students should check www.acsa-arch.org for additional information from the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture.


Minimum Requirements (recommended by Vanderbilt)

A. At least one semester of analytic geometry and calculus (Math 140)
NOTE: One year of calculus (Math 150 ab or higher) is preferred
B At least one year of calculus-based physics
C. Portfolio of creative work (drawings, paintings, sculpture, creative writing samples, etc.)
D. Two courses from the social sciences
E. Two courses in English/writing
F. Two courses in the humanities
G. Two courses in art history and/or architectural history
H. GRE (Graduate Record Exam)
NOTE: These courses should not be taken on a pass/fail basis.

General Comments

It does not matter which discipline the student selects as an undergraduate major as long as the minimum requirements have been met. It is similar to the pre-med program in that respect.

Students are encouraged to serve as summer interns at architectural firms and/or take special summer pre-architecture classes at various universities.

Most schools accept AP (Advanced Placement) credit as long as it is listed by course on the college transcript. Some programs are selective about which AP credits will be accepted.

Most programs desire a minimum G.P.A. of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Strong creative work (portfolio) may help those with a lower G.P.A.

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