Columbia doesn't have an MArch II?

<p>Hey, Columbia's GSAPP website states that they only accept people going into their first architectural degree for their MArch program. Meaning BArchs and DArchs can't apply. Does anyone know why this is? I know it wasn't always like this (I know people who got BArchs and then went to Columbia.)</p>

<p>odd. I know someone who has a B.Arch that I heard had gone on to Columbia for grad school...</p>

<p>ah, upon checking their website I see that they offer an MS in Advanced Architectural design. The description makes it sound like an M.Arch II that they've just chosen to call something else.</p>

<p>Yup, looks like you're right and I just missed that. I guess if you already have a professional degree, Columbia wants to train you further without having to prescribe to the NAAB?</p>

<p>I have that Columbia degree, though it was called the MS in architecture and building design when I was there. I think the MS designation is pretty standard for a post-professional degree. You only typically get one professional degree. When I was there they required two years of professional experience, but most students averaged four to five.</p>

<p>rick</p>

<p>it's not just typical, it's part of the definition. There's professional/ first professional, and post-professional, but no "second professional". An M.Arch II is post-professional, and was what seemed to me to be the norm. However the MS Arch is common enough not to be described as an anomoly or anything, just a choice in nomenclature that the school has made. </p>

<p>Archie, a decent program passes the NAAB inspections every time, I'm sure Columbia has no problems with that. I think it's just more common for schools which also offer a PhD track to offer an MS instead of an M.Arch II. At least it makes sense philosophically.</p>

<p>Thanks for the insight. It's all clear to me now!</p>