Introduction to Architecture

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Overview

If you're contemplating a career in architecture, or if you'd simply like to indulge your passion for it, then this intensive program is for you.

You'll spend the mornings exploring architectural principles such as:

• Composition
• History
• Preservation
• Landscape architecture
• Planning, and
• Urban design

In addition, you'll delve into the nuts and bolts of architecture, including:

• Building construction
• Structures
• Acoustics
• Lighting
• Energy conservation, and
• Sustainability

Throughout these discussions, the class will also consider the cultural, social, and political factors involved.

You'll spend afternoons and late evenings in the architecture studio, where you'll put into practice what you learn in the mornings. Tackling a major design problem is the core of this part of the program. Small design-studio seminars, intensive individual instruction, and regular progress reviews will help you prepare for the presentation of your final project. You'll be able to add your final project, as well as a wealth of architectural drawings and models, to your portfolio.

A significant highlight of the summer is the introduction to computer-aided design. This hands-on experience is led by Cornell's world-renowned computer graphics faculty, using state-of-the-art technology. You'll also take field trips to significant sites in the area—in past years, students have visited buildings designed by Louis Kahn and Frank Lloyd Wright. Finally, you will examine works by distinguished contemporary practitioners.

You'll also enjoy the rare opportunity to use Cornell's Fine Arts Library, one of the oldest and most extensive architectural libraries in the world, and the chance to draw on the extraordinary resources of our distinguished university community. Faculty members and graduate teaching assistants in the Department of Architecture will work closely with you throughout the six weeks. There is one instructor for every ten to twelve students in the design studio.

Students successfully completing the program receive, in addition to a certificate, a total of six credits for Architecture 1110 and 1300, a letter grade for each course, and a written evaluation from their instructor. The use of the summer courses to partially or wholly fulfill basic design requirements is solely at the discretion of the institution that admits you as a degree candidate. In most cases, students receive transcript credits for the courses.

These rigorous six-week classes are open to both high school and college students and require no specialized knowledge or background, just a serious interest in design. College students should note that they must register for Architecture 1110 and 1300 through Cornell University Summer Sessions.

The cost of supplies for this program is about $350. This expense is in addition to the cost of the program.

To be eligible for this program, you must have completed your junior or senior year of high school by June 2009.

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