Architectural Studies, Minor - COLA, UNH

Undergraduate

Architectural Studies

Explore diverse aspects of architectural studies, from hands-on disciplines like graphic design and woodworking to comprehensive studies in architectural history spanning Greek and Roman periods through modern times.
2026
Degree
Minor
Location
Durham, NH
Courses
5
Credit
18-20 hrs.*
Full-time
- -
Part-time
- -
students in a hallway

Art & Art History

The minor in Architectural Studies at UNH offers a rich interdisciplinary introduction to architecture's history, theory and practical applications. Here you'll be able to explore diverse aspects of architectural studies, from hands-on disciplines like graphic design and woodworking to comprehensive studies in architectural history spanning Greek and Roman periods through modern times. 

With specialized coursework in 2D computer design and green building practices, along with opportunities to learn from visiting artists and historians worldwide, this minor will provide excellent preparation for architecture school, engineering, historic preservation or related fields. Through engaging study abroad programs like Building Rome and UNH-in-Greece, you'll gain valuable real-world perspective while building a strong foundation for your future career.

*Number of courses and course credit hours may vary, please reach out to your academic advisor for exact requirements.

Department of Art & Art History

Contact Cards

Associate Professor
Paul Creative Arts Center, Durham, NH 03824

What is architectural studies?

The architectural studies minor provides students with an interdisciplinary introduction to the history, theory and methods of architecture and its symbolism. You can study hands-on disciplines, including graphic design, woodworking and sculpture;architectural history from Greek and Roman times up to the 20th century; and modern building and construction methods, including 2D computer design and green building design. The program is designed for students who are thinking about enrolling at a school of architecture, are interested in architectural history, want to supplement a technical major (e.g., civil engineering) with a strong academic minor,or plan to pursue a career in preservation, education, community service or public relations.

Why study architectural studies at UNH?

The interdisciplinary architectural studies minor allows students who are interested in this field to receive programmatic recognition for their work. Through the Art and Art History Department, you’ll meet and learn from artists and historians from around the world through the Visiting Artists & Art Historians program. Through the Civil Engineering Department, you’ll be able to attend the UNH Civil and Environmental Engineering Alumni Conference, where you’ll meet alumni sharing experience and knowledge. You’ll also have the opportunity to study abroad in a variety of programs, including Building Rome, Belize Archeological Field School or Archeological Survey and Mapping, or the UNH-in-Greece program.

Potential career areas

  • Architecture
  • Civil engineering
  • Community preservation
  • Drafting
  • Engineering
  • History
  • Museum curation
  • Urban planning

Curriculum & Requirements

01
Program Description
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The minor in architectural studies provides students with an interdisciplinary introduction to the history, theory and methods of architecture and its symbolism. The program allows students who are interested in this field to receive programmatic recognition of their work. It is designed to assist those who are contemplating enrollment at a school of architecture; are particularly interested in architectural history; want to supplement their technical majors (e.g., civil engineering) with strong academic minors; or plan to pursue careers in preservation, education, community service and public relations.

02
Requirements for the Program
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Academic policies related to minors.

The minor consists of completing five courses (18-20 credits total).

Required Courses
ARTS 532Introductory Drawing4
ARTH 474Introduction to Architectural History4
or ARTH 501 Introduction to Mediterranean Archaeology
or CLAS 501 Introduction to Mediterranean Archaeology
ARTS 525Introductory Woodworking4
or ARTS 567 Introductory Sculpture
Electives
Select two courses from the following (in consultation with minor coordinators):6-8
ARTH 400
Topics in Art History (only with architectural papers)
ARTS 510
Principles of Design
ARTS 520
Principles of Architectural Design
ARTS 600
Internship in Studio Art (only topic C - Architecture)
ARTS 625
Wood/Furniture Design Workshop
ARTS 667
Sculpture Workshop (only topic: Kinetic)
ARTH 674
Greek Art and Architecture
ARTH 678
Romanesque and Gothic Art
ARTS 796
Independent Study: Studio Art (only topic G: Architectural Design)
CEE 402
2D Computer Aided Design
CEE 795
Independent Study
CEE 700
Building Information Modeling
CEE 719
Green Building Design
CLAS 510
Building Rome
Total Credits18-20