Cover Photo Image

Architectural design students at JMU think creatively through acts of making.

From handcraft to digital fabrication and from orthographic drawing to material prototypes, the techniques and medias our students learn are varied, exploratory. and iterative.

Students work side-by-side with graphic designers, fiber-artists, printmakers, industrial designers, painters and sculptors. In addition to required foundations courses in art, architectural design majors at JMU can take art and design classes across the School of Art, Design and Art History.

The JMU chapter of The National Organization of Minority Architects is an active group on campus and in the community.

Learn More:
90% of graduates seeking work are employed in the field within 4 months
4 on-campus galleries offer internships
Architectural Design Facilities

The major is a part of the School of Art, Design and Art History, an academic unit within the College of Visual and Performing Arts.

The Architectural Design major educates future design leaders. It is an intensive program focused on rigorous design processes. Architectural design is approached holistically– emphasizing investigations into the nature of materials and objects, interior space, ergonomics, history and theory, programmatic invention, functional poetics, and collaboration across disciplines. The curriculum instills purpose, craft, technological competencies and versatile thinking.

Teaching licensure in art is available as part of all degree programs. As a student enrolled in art education course work, you will be exposed to both theoretical and practical issues related to comprehensive art education delivery. In addition to intensive art education methods course work, you will participate in three practicum experiences designed for elementary, middle and high school levels.

Architectural Design
  • Degrees Offered: 
    • B.F.A. in Art with a major in Architectural Design
  • Concentrations: None
  • Minors: None

For detailed program information and curriculum, please visit:


Graduation cap

Career Planning

A successful career and a meaningful life is what it’s all about. Whether it’s an internship, a great first job or a top graduate school appointment, JMU Dukes make their dreams ignite. You will, too.

Here are current openings available to JMU students.

Jobs for JMU Students
  • Please wait while this list loads...
  • Please wait while this list loads...

This preview has limited results. Log in to Handshake to see the full list, try out additional keywords, filter by location, and apply for positions.

Internships for JMU Students
  • Please wait while this list loads...
  • Please wait while this list loads...

This preview has limited results. Log in to Handshake to see the full list, try out additional keywords, filter by location, and apply for positions.

Back to Top