Michigan Design Sessions: Architecture
MDS: Architecture is an in-residence introduction to architectural education and the culture of design studio. Intended for prospective graduate students, those encountering architecture for the first time, and professionals considering a change in direction, the program offers an intensive experience of how architects see, think, and engage the world around them.
Through a sequence of design projects, participants develop ideas through drawing, modeling, digital tools, and experimentation with materials. Lectures, workshops, conversations, and critiques introduce the fundamental questions and methods that shape architectural practice, while the studio becomes a place for testing ideas and learning through exchange.
By the end of the program, participants will have experienced the rhythms and expectations of architectural education, developed a body of original, portfolio-ready work, and gained a clearer understanding of architecture both as a discipline and a professional pathway.
This program is ideal for students who are interested in pursuing the three-year Master of Architecture degree at the University of Michigan or elsewhere.
College Preparation
Alongside the academic and social components of the program, participants will also meet with the Taubman College Admissions team to learn more about the application and admissions process for our Graduate degree in Architecture.
Program Dates
| Date | Activity |
|---|---|
| January 6, 2027 | Application Opens |
| April 26, 2027 | Application Deadline |
| May 7, 2027 | Admissions Notification sent to Students |
| May 14, 2027 | $495 Deposit Due via Campdoc |
| June 2, 2027 | Remaining Tuition Balance Due |
| June 18, 2027 | Welcome Packet Shared with Admitted Students |
| August 1-20, 2027 | MDS:Architecture 2027 Program |
Logistics
Program Fee
The 2027 program fee is $2,850 and covers tuition, field trips, and instructional supplies.
Housing & Meal Plan
Participants are responsible for arranging and covering the cost of their own lodging for the duration of the program. We recommend securing accommodations early, as availability may be limited during the summer.
Eligibility
Applicants must be either a current undergraduate student or hold a bachelor’s degree in any field to be eligible for the program.
This program is also open to adults considering graduate study in architecture and welcomes participants from a wide range of academic, professional, and creative backgrounds.
No prior design experience, architecture coursework, or portfolio is required. Whether exploring architecture for the first time, considering a career change, or preparing to apply to a graduate program, participants are welcomed at any stage of their path toward architectural education.
International Applicants
International students are welcome to apply. Because MDS: Architecture is a summer program and not a formal or credit-bearing academic program, F-1 Visas are not required.
Application Details
The Summer 2027 MDS: Architecture application opens January 6, 2027. In the meantime, join our mailing list to stay informed of when the application opens.
Application Requirements
To be considered for the program, you must submit the following by the April 26, 2027 application deadline:
- Online Application
- Unofficial College Transcript (Uploaded With Application)
- 250-500 Word Essay (Uploaded With Application)
If there are more applicants than space available, Taubman College will utilize a waitlist.
Admitted Students
Applicants will be emailed an admission decision per the dates outlined above. Admitted students will receive an information packet by email that provides enrollment materials, including class schedule, liability, and health forms.
Computing
Students in MDS: Architecture are encouraged to bring a laptop, as contemporary design workflows rely heavily on digital tools. If you are unable to do so, this will not affect your admission. Taubman College is able to support students who need access to computing resources.
For reference, you can view general computing expectations for incoming Taubman College students.
MDS: Architecture Team
Michigan Design Sessions: Architecture is supported by a dedicated team of graduate student instructors along with essential staff at Taubman College.
Zain AbuSeir
Curriculum Development & Instructional Lead
Lecturer in Architecture
Jacob Comerci
Director, MDS
Managing Director of Academic Initiatives
Hyejin Lee
Staff Coordinator
Academic Advisor
Caitlin Cuppernull
Project Manager for Academic Initiatives
Contact
Email us at mds.architecture@umich.edu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Application Requirements
Who is eligible to apply for the program?
Applicants must be either a current undergraduate student or hold a bachelor’s degree to be eligible for the program.
Is there any preparation work students should complete prior to attending the program?
No advance preparation is required.
Are factors such as advanced coursework or unique extracurricular experiences considered in the review process?
Any information provided in a student’s application will be considered as part of the review process. We review every application holistically and value all experiences and achievements that applicants share with us.
Will you still consider applications past the application deadline?
If you would like your application to be considered beyond the application deadline, please send an email iterating your request and it will be reviewed by the program’s staff members.
Housing
Where do participants stay during the program?
Participants are responsible for arranging and paying for their own lodging. Participants may wish to explore:
- Hotels and extended-stay properties near campus
- Short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb
- Sublets
Participants should carefully review location, transportation options, cancellation policies, accessibility, and total costs before making a reservation.
Is a commuter option available for program participants?
Yes, participants may commute to North Campus each day, provided they live close enough to arrive on time for all program activities throughout the program’s duration.
Is lunch provided?
No: Participants are encouraged to bring their own lunch or purchase lunch each day. To help you plan, we have compiled a list of nearby grocery stores, convenient lunch options, and popular Ann Arbor restaurants that we will provide you with alongside your welcome packet.
Program Logistics
What are faculty-to-student ratios in studios?
Our planned staff-to-student ratio in the studio is 12:1.
Does this program offer college credits?
No, this is not a credit-bearing program.
Is the program completely in-person? Do you have a virtual or hybrid option?
The program will begin with two virtual days focused on building foundational software skills. The majority of the program will take place in person, followed by three final days of virtual portfolio workshops and preparation.
Does the program offer general support with preparing applications to grad schools with an architecture focus?
A graduate school preparation session includes a one-hour presentation and Q&A with a member of our Admissions team covering admissions criteria, the application process, and portfolio requirements for Taubman College graduate programs.
Who are classes and studios taught by?
The program is led by a Taubman College faculty person and supported by student instructors who are recent or current Taubman graduate students.
What does a typical daily schedule look like? Is a program itinerary or schedule available in advance?
| 9:00 am – 12:00 pm | Lecture/Studio/Workshop |
| 12:00 pm-1:00 pm | Lunch |
| 1:00 pm-5:00 pm | Studio/Workshop |
| * Some days will include special events such as guest lectures, visits to other facilities on campus, field trips to Ann Arbor, Detroit, and visits to local architecture firms. | |
Link copied