Architecture Minor

This information is part of the Colgate University catalog, 2024-25.

The Architecture minor offers a program of study in which our undergraduates can become more adept at understanding the power of the built environment to shape lives and embody societal values.

Minor Requirements

The minor includes a minimum of six courses as follows.

Introductory Course

ARCH 105 - Introduction to Architecture in Cultural Context

Four Courses

Students may apply to the Architectural Studies Minor Coordinator for permission to integrate one course from outside the ARTS department into their minor concentration, as a substitute for one of the following requirements.

At least two courses must be focused on the history and theory of architecture from the following:
ARCH 220 - Early Modern European Architecture
ARCH 244 - Housing the Sacred in Ancient India
ARCH 273 - Architecture of Art Museums
ARCH 275 - American Campus Architecture: Colgate
ARCH 277 - Modern Architecture 1880-1970
ARCH 344 - Hindu Temples: Architecture and Sculpture, Architecture as Sculpture
ARTH 350 - Art and the Goddess
ARTH 357 - Storytelling Without Words
No more than two of the four courses may be drawn from those focused on architecture and its interaction with other arts and cultural forms:
ARTH 207 - Roman Art
ARCH 245 - Palaces and Paintings of India
ARTH 360 - Borderlands
ARCH 363 - War and Plunder

Electives

Complete at least one course from the following:

Graduate Study Recommendations

Students anticipating graduate work in architecture should be aware that liberal arts experience is highly valued by the best graduate schools. To prepare for graduate work in architecture, students should take PHYS 105 or PHYS 111 and one semester of calculus. Experience in studio courses, especially drawing (ARTS 211), sculpture (ARTS 263 or ARTS 264), is extremely valuable in the preparation of a graduate portfolio. The study of historical architecture and the ways in which architecture connects to society is promoted in many art courses such as ARTH 207, ARTH 216, ARCH 220, ARTH 226, ARCH 275, ARCH 277, ARCH 344, and ARTH 360. Students interested in careers in architecture should contact the architecture adviser.