College: Institute of Graduate Programs

This specialization provides a comprehensive understanding of the historical development and theoretical foundations of architecture, focusing on the evolution of architectural styles, movements, and ideas.

Students will explore key areas such as architectural history, critical theory, cultural context, and the relationship between architecture and society. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research, and analysis to prepare students for careers in architectural criticism, academia, preservation, and design.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the historical development of architecture from ancient to contemporary times.
• Develop skills in analyzing key architectural styles, movements, and figures.
• Learn techniques for interpreting architectural theory and its impact on design.
• Explore the cultural, social, and political contexts of architecture.
• Understand the role of architecture in shaping human experiences and environments.
• Analyze the challenges and opportunities in preserving architectural heritage.
• Develop research and writing skills for architectural criticism and scholarship.

Main Outline:

1. Introduction to Architectural History
   • Overview of architectural history, significance, and major periods.
2. Ancient and Classical Architecture
   • Study of architectural achievements in ancient civilizations (e.g., Egypt, Greece, and Rome).
   • Techniques for analyzing classical architectural principles and forms.
3. Medieval and Renaissance Architecture
   • Explore Gothic, Romanesque, and Renaissance styles.
   • Techniques for understanding the cultural and technological influences of these periods.
4. Modern Architecture
   • Study movements such as Bauhaus, modernism, and postmodernism.
   • Techniques for analyzing works of key architects like Le Corbusier and Frank Lloyd Wright.
5. Contemporary Architecture
   • Explore current trends and innovations in architecture.
   • Techniques for understanding the impact of globalization and technology on design.
6. Architectural Theory and Criticism
   • Principles of architectural theory and its application to design practice.
   • Techniques for critical analysis and interpretation of architectural works.
7. Cultural and Social Contexts of Architecture
   • The role of architecture in reflecting and shaping cultural identities.
   • Techniques for understanding the social and political dimensions of architecture.
8. Architectural Conservation and Heritage
   • Basics of preserving and restoring historic buildings and sites.
   • Techniques for balancing preservation with modern needs.
9. Research Methods in Architectural History
   • Principles for conducting archival and field research.
   • Techniques for writing and presenting scholarly work.
10. Final Research Project
    • In-depth research project on a specific architectural topic or case study.
    • Techniques for making a comprehensive and original scholarly contribution.

Assessment Methods:

• Research papers and essays on architectural history and theory.
• Presentations and critiques of architectural works.
• Participation in seminars and group discussions.
• Final project and defense.

Recommended Textbooks:

• "A Global History of Architecture" by Francis D.K. Ching, Mark M. Jarzombek, and Vikramaditya Prakash.
• "Theories and Manifestoes of Contemporary Architecture" by Charles Jencks and Karl Kropf.
• "Modern Architecture: A Critical History" by Kenneth Frampton.
• "The Architecture of the City" by Aldo Rossi.

Prerequisites:

No prior experience is required, but an interest in architecture, history, and culture is recommended. Suitable for students in architecture, art history, and related fields.

Specialization Duration:

Typically spans 3 to 4 years, including research projects and seminars.

Certification:

Graduates may earn a degree in the history and theory of architecture or a related field, depending on the program and institution.

Target Audience:

Architectural historians, critics, educators, and aspiring professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of the cultural and theoretical dimensions of architecture.

This specialization equips students with critical thinking, research, and analysis skills necessary to explore and interpret the rich history and theory of architecture, contributing to the discourse and preservation of the built environment.