Students can now complete their architectural education without leaving the state of Maine, almost. Graduates of the UMA BA in Architecture program often go on to get their professional Master's degree at one of the many programs throughout the US. The Boston Architectural College (The BAC) is one such school that has signed a formal transfer agreement with UMA offering our graduates acceptance, usually with high advanced standing.
The Important BAC Connection
The Boston Architectural College (the BAC) is the closest professional masters program to Maine. During the past several years, upper level BAC administrators and teachers have visited UMA to research and review the UMA program. The levels of our students’ work, curriculum approach and content, and the high quality of our faculty, have brought our two schools together in a professional transfer agreement.
With the B.A. in Architecture from UMA, a student can typically transfer into the BAC Masters program with advanced standing. After completing their requirements, a graduate should be eligible to sit for the professional licensing exams as the BAC degree includes a professional internship as part of their curriculum.
See “The Boston Architectural College – Distance Masters Program” for additional information.
Practicing Professionals Distance M.Arch
In response to the need of our Maine students, and others from around the United States, the Boston Architectural College has created the first and only Practicing Professionals Distance Masters of Architecture program in the country.
This degree program is designed specifically for individuals who have a background in architecture and a connection to the profession. One of the most convenient benefits is that students are able to study from anywhere in the U.S., through online learning, coming to Boston for one week each semester. The program is designed to be completed in 2 years. Ideally suited candidates for the degree are individuals who have earned a bachelor’s degree in architecture, and have worked in the profession under a licensed architect for at least one year.
The Practicing Professionals Distance M.Arch allows students the opportunity to use professional experience to earn credit toward their degree, earn the academic credential required for the Architectural Registration Exam (ARE), and earn IDP and education credits for time spent working in the profession—all while studying at one of the leading professional design colleges in the country.
For more information about this exciting opportunity, and how a UMA architecture degree might figure into your plans, contact:
Eric Stark, Assistant Professor of Architecture, University of Maine at Augusta
207.621.3249
eric.stark@maine.edu
or
Mark Giannini, Manager of Distance M. Arch Recruitment , The Boston Architectural College
617.585.0202
mark.giannini@the-bac.edu
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the program? Students attend classes over five semesters, while concurrently earning education credits for the degree by working at a local design firm. The program is designed to be completed in approximately two years.
Where do I take classes? Do I have to move to Boston? No, you do not need to relocate to Boston. Most of the time, students will be studying through online classes where they live and work. Each semester, students will come to Boston for a 8-day intensive of academic study.
When does the program start? The BAC is currently accepting applications for the Spring 2009 cohort, which begins in January 2009. The application deadline for Spring 2009 is October 16, 2008. There is limited space available each cohort, so early applications are encouraged. The college anticipates a substantial interest in the Practicing Professionals Distance M.Arch.
Will I have to quit my job? No, the program is designed for individuals who have already worked in the profession for at least one year, and ideally are currently employed in architecture. The curriculum is structured so that students can continue to work in their firms, and count their current time as practicing professionals toward the degree. Connecting the “practice component” with the academic component of study is the cornerstone of the BAC educational philosophy.
Is the BAC accredited? The BAC is fully accredited as a college by NEASC, and fully accredited by NAAB (National Architecture Accrediting Board).
Is financial aid available? Yes, as a fully accredited college, the BAC offers the same types of federal financial aid as any college or university.
How do I apply? Just start by filling out the application form, either a paper copy, or online at the BAC web site, under the Admissions section.