Classical Architecture Certificate
For thousands of years, this tradition has lain at the heart of western architecture, resulting in an enduring language of design of universal appeal, one that is readily understood, by the general public.
The growing appreciation for classical and traditional architecture has meant that the demand for traditional buildings, in both the public and private realms, is greater today than it has been for 50+ years. This is reflected in the hiring preference (by many architectural firms), to obtain graduates whose portfolios demonstrate a skill set in this field, along with conventional modernist idioms.
It is our belief, that giving students a training in classicism makes them better designers in all traditions, including modernism. The core of the certificate program is a studio in which the vocabulary (the orders) and the syntax (composition) of classical architecture are taught through a series of pedagogical exercises and esquisse (sketch) projects; in addition, students will take electives in history, theory, and documentary analysis.
The Certificate program will frequently be involved with the projects and educational opportunities of two organizations:
The Institute of Classical Architecture & Art (ICAA), New York City-based, with 14 chapters nationwide, to include one in the Southeast (Atlanta). The ICAA, is the leading national non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the practice and appreciation of the Classical tradition in architecture and the allied arts.
The second is the Prince’s Foundation for the Built Environment — an architecture school and trust, based in the United Kingdom and founded by the Prince of Wales, to promote a return of human values to architecture.
Historic Preservation Certificate
The Certificate in Historic Preservation program provides a unique opportunity for both undergraduate and graduate students at U-SoA to expand their knowledge of historic preservation while completing their professional degrees. The program builds on U-SoA’s strengths in history, urban design, community-building and regionalism.
Miami and its region, including South Florida and the Caribbean, serve as an ideal laboratory for the program. A diversity of characteristic and threatened buildings, urban districts and landscapes provides the context for exploring the evolving issues in historic preservation.
The Certificate Program stresses an interdisciplinary approach, and allows specialization in areas of regional significance, such as tropical and sub-tropical architecture. Program resources include Miami’s professional community with its extensive experience in preservation in practice.
For more information, please contact your advisor in the Office of Academic Services.
