New Master of Science in Architecture concentrations: Conservation, Material Systems joins Digital Technologies, Design Research

Taubman College’s Master of Science (M.S.) in Architecture degree is an intensive post-professional academic program with a focus on design research. The course of study allows for interdisciplinary skill-building and new knowledge integration in order to advance design expertise beyond the generalist education of a professional degree. With focused subject matter, the program develops participants’ dexterities in design thinking and entrepreneurial approaches to design practice. The college is announced the addition of two new M.S. concentrations for fall term 2012:

Conservation

The Master of Science concentration in Conservation (MS_C, 36 credits) expands upon conventional notions of Historic Preservation to encompass the multiple scales that shape the cultural and environmental heritage of a community and its region. The course of study offers participants an innovative approach to connecting physical, social and ecological contexts as a means of probing architecture’s active role in the construction of culture. Participants will explore how to imaginatively design the future of historic structures, as well as progressively develop under-utilized historically significant urban sites and landscapes. Participants will be given the tools to bridge the gap between historic preservation of the built environment and the conservation of natural resources.

For more: taubmancollege.umich.edu/msc

Material Systems

The Master of Science concentration in Material Systems (MS_MS, 36 credits) advances architectural research methodologies and design practice in new materials and adaptive / high performance architectural material assemblies with an emphasis upon material performance, fabrication, environmental performance and technology integration. Research streams will include material-scale performance, fluid modeling energy evaluation, and technology-integrated material explorations with emerging manufacturing processes. Participants will work with interdisciplinary faculty from architecture and engineering, manufacturers and professional firms that link innovation with the ability to prototype and test new building components.

For more: taubmancollege.umich.edu/msms

The new concentrations complement the existing concentrations:

• Digital Technologies (taubmancollege.umich.edu/msdt)
• Design Research (taubmancollege.umich.edu/msdr)

M.S. applications are due March 1, 2012.