The Architecture Special Session Degree Program is specifically designed for persons who have begun their architectural education but have not completed it. The Department of Architecture and the College of the Extended University at Cal Poly Pomona offers working professionals the opportunity to complete their architectural studies toward the first professional degree in architecture, the Bachelor of Architecture.
Overview
The architecture program at Cal Poly Pomona has existed since 1966. In 1985, Richard Chylinski, FAIA, one of the first faculty members of the original program, initiated the Architecture Special Session Degree Program.
Working professionals are invited to take single or multiple courses within this program. However, it is not necessary to be working toward the degree to take advantage of the offerings of this program.
Two years of prior architectural design coursework at university and/or community college level is desired. There is no direct credit for office experience.
NAAB Accreditation
In the United States, most state registration boards require a degree from and accredited professional degree program as a prerequisite for licensure. The National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), which is the sole agency authorized to accredit U.S. professional degree programs in architecture, recognizes three types of degrees: the Bachelor of Architecture, the Master of Architecture, and the Doctor of Architecture. A program may be granted a six-year, three-year, or two-year term of accreditation, depending on the extent of its conformance with established educational standards.
Master’s degree programs may consist of a professional undergraduate degree and a professional graduate degree that, when earned sequentially, constitute an accredited professional education. However, the pre-professional degree is not, by itself, recognized as an accredited degree.
Coursework and Schedule
The Special Session coursework mirrors that of Cal Poly Pomona’s daytime academic program. A majority of the classes for the Architecture Special Session Degree Program are offered on Saturdays, although some Sunday and weekday evening classes may also be scheduled, depending on instructor availability. Each Special Session includes both upper and lower division design studies, concurrent with two lecture courses.
Courses
Faculty
The Architecture Special Session faculty is comprised of experienced members of the Department of Architecture at Cal Poly Pomona. Inclusive of full-time and part-time instructors, the faculty is balanced between practicing architects and academicians. All faculty members hold either an architectural license or a second professional degree in architecture.
Tuition/Registration
Tuition is $250 per unit. Design studios are six units, lecture courses are four units, and the Senior Project is eight units. Registration and payment for each course is due no later than the first day of each class.
To reserve a place, students may register online or via phone, 909.869.2288.
Additional Information
Please direct your questions to Gary L. McGavin, AIA, who oversees the administrative responsibilities of this program.