History & Theory Archive

The relationship between design, history, and theory is explored in a broad range of courses in which the analysis of buildings, cities, landscapes, and texts supports the articulation and criticism of fundamental concepts, methods, and issues. Historical and contemporary projects and writings are studied in context and as part of the theoretical discourse of architecture.

The introductory history and theory course (701a) provides an introduction to the history of modern architecture and its contemporary critique. This course is followed by 704a, Case Studies in Architectural Theory, 1680–1987, normally to be taken in the third term. All students must also take 703b, Contemporary Architectural Theory. In addition, M.ARCH. I students must satisfactorily complete two elective courses in this study area that fulfill the History and Theory elective requirement, one of which should be in a non-Western subject.

The M.ARCH. I History and Theory two-course elective requirement may be fulfilled by selecting from among the History and Theory courses designated with an asterisk (*) prior to the course number as well as 912a, 914b, 922a, and 925a. Permission of the study area coordinator is required for credit toward the History and Theory elective requirement for any course not designated. Note that 912a, 914a, 922a, and 925a cannot be used to satisfy both the History and Theory and the Urbanism and Landscape elective requirements.

Advanced courses may be taken at any time after the completion of 701a, or with permission of the study area coordinator to waive the introductory course. The required electives are not a prerequisite for other advanced courses, and those courses may not be substituted for it. All exceptions, waivers, and substitutions must be approved by the study area coordinator and the Rules Committee.

Coordinator: Pelkonen, Eeva-Liisa