Undergraduate Programs

The Bachelor of Environmental Design degree is offered by the Department of Architecture to prepare students to enter the industries that design the built and virtual environments. It is one of the most selective degree programs at Texas A&M University.

The B.E.D, like most programs in architectural studies, incorporates studio courses as an important part of the degree plan. Studio courses engage students in project-based learning modeled after a professional design office. Students are challenged to develop original and creative designs that respond to a problem such as design of a building, a community, and graphic work, a sculpture, or a digital artwork. Studios are intensive and emanding, but allow students opportunities for creative expression and development of personal initiative.

Students in the B.E.D. program must declare a degree plan in one of two options: Architectural Studies or Visual Studies. The Architectural Stduies Option is intended for students who are committed to pursuing a career as a licensed architect, home designer, or other professional in the building industry. The Visual Studies Option is intended for those who are interested in the fields of computer animation, fine art, graphics, and other related areas.

Off Campus Programs and Internships
All students pursuing a Bachelor of Environmental Design degree participate in an off-campus program during a fall or spring semester. Students may choose a study abroad experience, a professional internship, or study at another U.S. university. The off-campus programs help to prepare students to become leaders in the profession and industry through a first-hand awareness of issues of globalization, diverse cultures, and professional behavior.

Becoming a Licensed Architect
In the United States, one who practices architecture must be licensed by a state. In most states, one of the requirements for licensure is possession of a degree in architecture that is accredited by the National Architectural Accreditation Board. The Master of Architecture at Texas A&M is an accredited degree that is a credential for those who wish to become licensed architects. A pre-professional degree, such as the Bachelor of Environmental Design with the Architectural Studies Option, is a prerequisite for entry into the Master of Architecture degree program.

The Bachelor of Environmental Design with the Visual Studies Option does not provide the credential to prepare one for entry into the Master of Architecture degree program at Texas A&M.

Graduates who hold a degree other than a pre-professional degree or professional degree in architecture may apply to the Master of Architecture program through the Career Change program.

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