Université Laval
School of Architecture
Setting
As the oldest French-speaking university in North America, with over 35,000 students, Université Laval is firmly established as a leader among large universities worldwide. Located in the heart of Old Québec, in the walls of the Seminary, a 17th century architectural landmark, the School of Architecture offers a rich physical and cultural environment. The School is well-served by public transport and numerous services. Students can find housing nearby or lodge in the campus' residences
School Philosophy
The School of Architecture offers its students a balanced education so that they can become knowledgeable and creative architects capable of yielding innovative solutions to complex architectural problems and asserting rigorous judgments on professional and ethical matters. As a design and research center, the School is dedicated to cultural and environmental responsive architecture that contributes to quality of life. Students and faculty are invited to participate in the university's substantial International Profile and are actively involved in projects in developing countries, as well as with native communities.
Programs
Undergraduate Program
Since September 2000, in order to gain access to the profession, students must complete a Bachelor of Architecture and a Master of Architecture, followed by a three-year training period. The undergraduate program aims at raising students' awareness of ideas and values affecting architectural practice, as well as the balanced development of theoretical, technical and methodological skills. Teaching is structured around studios addressing realistic and contemporary architectural and urban design problems.
Students seeking this degree take a total of 96 credits in a three-year curriculum. Mandatory courses take up 69 credits, while electives comprise the 27 remaining credits. A minimum of five studios is required. Advanced studios are offered with associated theory classes, allowing for in-depth training and important and/or emerging practice fields. Undergraduate students are encouraged to study abroad through the university's International Profile. This program depends on reciprocal agreements, which means the School of Architecture plays host to a contingent of foreign students as large as the one it sends to partner institutions in France, Mexico, Switzerland, Denmark, Lebanon, Vietnam, etc. Participants benefit from a unique opportunity to broaden intellectual horizons, gain intercultural awareness and comprehend a second, or even third language.
Graduate Program
Students enrolled in the Master of Architecture program, fulfilling the requirements for obtaining a professional degree in architecture, must choose two of the following concentrations: Construction and Design, Environment Control Systems, Architectural Conservation, Programming and Design, Virtual Architecture, Urban Design and Habitat and Cultures. Courses relating to architectural practice are taught at this level.
This program aims at developing social responsibility and ethical bases, providing reflective and analytical tools, as well as testing participatory design methods. A strong focus is placed upon research-based design.
Master of Science (Architecture-essay): This program offers seminars, labs and project-oriented coursework in the field of Urban Design. The curriculum is organized around a core studio where case studies (local, national or international) with real clients and participatory design methods are favored. Students must produce an urban design project and an essay as their final assignment. Master of Science (Architecture-thesis): Training in research and development is open to all candidates with a relevant undergraduate degree in three broad fields of study where faculty are actively involved: Housing and Urban Form, Computer Simulation for CAD, and Environment Control Systems and Construction Theory. A Ph.D. program is in the process of being approved by the University.
of Focus
1. Community Design
2. Industry Collaborations
3. Digital Fabrication & Technology
4. Historic Preservation
5. Building Technologies
6. History | Theory | Criticism
7. Urbanism
8. Design/Build
Opportunities
Teaching / Research assistantships
Summer Program
Study Abroad
Facilities
24 Hour Workshop
Woodshop
Metalshop
Policies
