Graduate Catalog 2004-2006
UDM Academic PoliciesCourse DescriptionsList of All ProgramsFaculty


AR 110 Architectural Design I
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
(Prerequisite: Admission to the School of Architecture or permission of advisor.)


The first semester is introductory, whose character is high energy, creative, reflective and enthusiastic. It is intended to introduce students to design concepts of form, space, composition, in two and three dimensions, and how they relate to human experiences. Students are introduced to the principles of design and the design process as a foundation for architectural design. Being the first studios course, the assumption is that the student comes with limited to no design or drawing skills.
4012

AR 111 Visual Communication I
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
(Prerequisite: Admission to the School of Architecture or permission of advisor.)


The first course in architectural graphic analysis and presentation techniques. Students are introduced to the basic techniques in life drawing and design illustration. The course stresses perspective projection as a primary method for studying and representing three-dimensional shapes in two dimensions. Model drawing is introduced to provide human scale for architectural studies. Monochromatic graphic tools are used ranging from pencil to graphic pen.
309

AR 116 Introduction to Computer Graphics
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An introduction to computer graphics. This first course utilizes Autodesk AutoCAD on IBM compatible hardware. The course stresses three dimensional digital modeling as a primary method of communication and design and includes elements of computer visualization techniques. Students acquire hands-on experience through a series of laboratory exercises and individual projects
323

AR 119 Introduction to Architecture
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


Introduction to Architecture is offered to first year architecture students to create awareness of the profession of architecture. The course looks at the history of the profession; how architecture is practiced in the United States; how the profession is changing; current issues with the architectural profession; the tenets of the American Institute of Architects; and ethical concerns facing a practitioner today. The course gives students a broad based background into architecture before they have an opportunity to be engaged in practice through cooperative education and internship after graduation.
110

AR 120 Architectural Design II
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
AR 110
or permission of advisor.


Design II is intended to introduce students to design concepts directly related to the design of buildings and spatial experience. It is characterized by several short term, intense projects that introduce the student to the many scales and concerns of architectural design from the study of exterior spaces, to the programming of a space, to the detail of its constructability. It is establishing the fundamentals of all aspects of architectural design- from posing initial questions, conceptualization and issues of realization, to materiality and constructability.
4012

AR 121 Visual Communication II
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
AR 111



This course builds on the experiences from AR 111. Color techniques are introduced such as pastels and watercolors. The subjects in this course range from still-life and architectural interiors to perspective presentation renderings. The complete sequence provides students with the visual language to analyze and communicate graphically various types of architectural concepts.
309

AR 130 Architectural Design III
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
AR 120
and admission to the School of Architecture.


Design III is intended to transfer ideas explored in first year into their architectural applications while introducing students to the design of simple buildings and spaces as a creative integration of multiple systems i.e. concept, site, function, structure, mechanical systems, accessibility, materials and codes. The overall intent is to give students the opportunity to understand and explore in more detail how various systems inform, integrate and coordinate the design of architectural form and space. This term focuses on the issues of the integration of form and structure and the issue of materiality/constructability.
4012

AR 140 Architectural Design IV
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
AR 130



Design IV is a continuation of studies begun in Design III. It is intended to further develop the student’s ability to design buildings and building complexes within the context of integrated multiple systems. The issues of focus for this term include also sustainability, environmental systems and the design of a totally integrated project
4012

AR 210 Architectural Design V
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
AR 140



This series of studios combines students from the third and fourth years into a common studio to explore a particular project type and theme. These projects change from term to term. Project types include: housing, civic buildings, urban design, retail, office, health care and manufacturing buildings, etc. Themes include: community design, architectural competitions, historic preservation, electronic design, sustainable design, representation, design-build, and architectural theory. Examples include: an electronic design studio for the design of a German Embassy for the City of Detroit, a design- build studio for the design and construction of a prototypical design studio space, and a community design studio for the design of a VFW Hall. It is the intent of these studios to broaden and deepen the student’s design skills and experiences while preparing them for the Master’s Studios.
5015

AR 212 Architectural History & Theory I
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
(Prerequisite: Second Year Standing.)


An examination of the emergence and development of man’s constructed environment from antiquity to the Industrial Revolution. This course examines various architectural traditions and traces the development of architectural form as an expression of social, religious, political and technological conditions.
330

AR 213 Principles of Structural Behavior
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


An analysis of known structural systems in terms of spatial behavior in non-mathematical terms. The basic approaches to structure, proper scale of use and the effects of various materials, geometry and construction techniques are integrated into the course content. Illustrated lectures covering buildings from ancient to modern are used to demonstrate structural principles.
330

AR 215 Construction I
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
(Prerequisite: Third year standing.)


An exploration of principles and methods of architectural construction including the study of various exterior wall systems relative to different structural systems. The investigation provides an overview beginning with earth and footings and concludes at the roof where various roof to wall conditions are evaluated.
330

AR 216 Computer Aided Design
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
AR 116



The second course in computer aided design uses primarily Autodesk 3D Studio software. The emphasis is on visualization and design. Students learn how to assemble complex three-dimensional, digital architectural landscapes equipped with real-life attributes of light, building materials, etc. These objects are rendered and animated to facilitate the needs of the design process as well as complex graphic presentations. Additional postprocessing and graphic software is introduced.
323

AR 220 Architectural Design VI
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
AR 210



This series of studios combines students from the third and fourth years into a common studio to explore a particular project type and theme. These projects change from term to term. Project types include: housing, civic buildings, urban design, retail, office, health care and manufacturing buildings, etc. Themes include: community design, architectural competitions, historic preservation, electronic design, sustainable design, representation, design-build, and architectural theory. Examples include: an electronic design studio for the design of a German Embassy for the City of Detroit, a design- build studio for the design and construction of a prototypical design studio space, and a community design studio for the design of a VFW Hall. It is the intent of these studios to broaden and deepen the student’s design skills and experiences while preparing them for the Master’s Studios.
5015

AR 222 Architectural History and Theory II
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
AR 212



An examination of the development of architecture from the Industrial Revolution to present day. The course examines the fundamental themes underlying the creation of modern architectural form and relates them to developments in the other plastic arts. The course makes extensive use of slides and visual materials.
330

AR 225 Construction II
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
AR 215



Principles, materials and methods of architectural construction are examined as they relate to the exterior enclosure systems of buildings. An analysis of materials and systems, including: dampproofing, waterproofing, curtain walls, windows, glass and glazing, sealants and joint design, moisture and heat control is undertaken. Codes and standards are considered for their affects on the technical aspects of the construction process. The importance of maintaining the integrity of exterior enclosure systems is stressed.
330

AR 230 Architectural Design VII
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
AR 220



This series of studios combines students from the third and fourth years into a common studio to explore a particular project type and theme. These projects change from term to term. Project types include: housing, civic buildings, urban design, retail, office, health care and manufacturing buildings, etc. Themes include: community design, architectural competitions, historic preservation, electronic design, sustainable design, representation, design-build, and architectural theory. Examples include: an electronic design studio for the design of a German Embassy for the City of Detroit, a design- build studio for the design and construction of a prototypical design studio space, and a community design studio for the design of a VFW Hall. It is the intent of these studios to broaden and deepen the student’s design skills and experiences while preparing them for the Master’s Studios.
5015

AR 233 Structures I
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
PHY 120



Analysis of structures. This course teaches the mathematical calculation of structures through lectures, and individual problem assignments. It focuses on resolution of forces; reaction; forces in frames and trusses; and forces in frames with beams. Also examined are characteristics of structural materials and structural components: shear and bending movements, flexural and shear stresses, combined stresses, principal stresses, combined bending and axial loads and stresses, deflection, continuity in structures. Light weight wood framing is presented as is wood as a structural material.
330

AR 234 Environmental Technology I
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
PHY 120



Theory and application of building plumbing systems and of heating, ventilating, cooling, humidity control and fire protection. Emphasizes the effects these requirements have on architecture in terms of human comfort and health.
330

AR 240 Architectural Design VIII
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
AR 230



This series of studios combines students from the third and fourth years into a common studio to explore a particular project type and theme. These projects change from term to term. Project types include: housing, civic buildings, urban design, retail, office, health care and manufacturing buildings, etc. Themes include: community design, architectural competitions, historic preservation, electronic design, sustainable design, representation, design-build, and architectural theory. Examples include: an electronic design studio for the design of a German Embassy for the City of Detroit, a design- build studio for the design and construction of a prototypical design studio space, and a community design studio for the design of a VFW Hall. It is the intent of these studios to broaden and deepen the student’s design skills and experiences while preparing them for the Master’s Studios.
5015

AR 243 Structures II
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
AR 233



This second course in structures focuses on principles of design of simple structures. Primarily studied are the design of beams, columns, trusses, built-up components and foundations in standard structural materials, steel and concrete. Related building construction techniques as well as lateral and seismic loading is also presented.
330

AR 244 Environmental Technology II
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
PHY 120



Physical theory of light and color; subjective determination of light level and lighting quality; building electrical systems; sound energy, transmission and absorption, room acoustics and noise control.
330

AR 252 Architectural History & Theory III
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
AR 222



An examination of selected examples of contemporary theory. The course closely examines competing ideas regarding architecture, urbanism and landscape and their implication for contemporary design.
330

AR 314 Energy and Architecture
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
AR 234



An investigation of energy conservation and use in building design with a concentration on passive approaches. Sustainable design, energy management, climate, daylighting, passive heating & cooling and earth sheltering strategies are highlighted.
330

AR 317 Temporary Environments
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
third-year standing.


The last 20 years has witnessed a rise of temporary work by architects currently referred to as "installations". This graduate seminar examines how installations have offered opportunities for technical, aesthetic, cultural and theoretical experimentation. Stage sets, Festival Architecture and Expositions are examined in relation to installation work. Topical discussions are focused by readings and specific case studies. A research project/ presentation leading to a final paper is required.
330

AR 381 Drawing
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
(Prerequisite: participation in the Polish Exchange Program.)


A studio class in architectural drawing which utilizes the internationally recognized Polish system. The class emphasizes drawing from life, memory and imagination and attempts to develop methods of visualization and representation introducing techniques uncommon in the U.S. A variety of graphic media are examined.
309

AR 382 History of Polish & Vernacular Architecture
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
(Prerequisite: Participation in the Polish Exchange Program.)


A lecture class taught by several professors from the department of History and Preservation examining Polish architectural history, town planning & vernacular architecture, and architectural preservation. Field trips to historic sites such a Krakow, Lublin, Torun, Gdansk, Zamosc and Kasimierz Dolny are required. Students document monuments and other major works of architecture located in those cities.
330

AR 488 Urban & Regional Planning
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
(Prerequisite: Participation in the Polish Exchange Program.)


A studio course that examines the physical development of a district of Warsaw or a small town nearby. This course analyzes the physical, social and economic conditions of the study area, develops a master plan addressing salient issues arising from the analysis, and proposes an urban design expression for those issues. The course attempts to be responsive to Poland’s transition to a free market economy by incorporating workable solutions to Warsaw’s rapidly changing physical environment.
309

AR 510 Master’s Studio I
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
AR 240
and admission into the Master’s Program.


The student poses the "question" that the Master’s project will address. The question leads to the development of the architectural program and the selection of the site for the project. Design analysis and conceptualization phases are begun.
5015

AR 517 Temporary Environments
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
AR 371
(Pre-requisites: Fifth-year master’s)


The last 20 years has witnessed a rise of temporary work by architects currently referred to as "installations". This graduate seminar examines how installations have offered opportunities for technical, aesthetic, cultural and theoretical experimentation. Stage sets, Festival Architecture and Expositions are examined in relation to installation work. Topical discussions are focused by readings and specific case studies. A research project/ presentation leading to a final paper is required.
330

AR 518 Urban Design Issues
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
Fifth-year standing


This course challenges architecture students to critically analyze the urban environment by exposing them to a cross-disciplinary discussion of architecture, urban design and urban planning theory. Detroit is used as a common point of discussion.
330

AR 519 Profession of Architecture
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
(Prerequisite: Fifth-year standing.)


This course examines professional practice issues including internship, construction documents, firm organization, codes, compensation, financial management, marketing and the architect’s responsibilities in the project delivery process.
330

AR 520 Master’s Studio II
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
AR 510



Studies begun in Master’s Studio I are continued. Articulation of the design concept, presentation of design conclusions and reflection on the total learning experience, its process and products of the Master’s Studio are the foci of this course. Documentation of the entire effort, incorporating research through design proposal in written and graphical forms, is required.
5015

AR 524 Sustainability and Architecture
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
AR 314



This course explores, investigates and analyzes the concepts associated with the issue of "sustainability" as it relates to Architecture and Urbanization. It examines what is presently being designed within the concept of sustainable "Green" buildings as well as what is forecast for the future .
330

AR 527 Architectural Analysis
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
Fifth-year standing


Seminar and lecture activities related to evaluation of specific architectonic elements of building relating these to psychological responses, the visual language of building, and syntactic process.
330

AR 528 Detroit Urban Issues
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
Fifth-year master’s


The course explores, with the help of visiting experts, the history of how metropolitan Detroit got to be the way it is today, the dynamics linking metropolitan core disinvestment with metropolitan edge unsustainable investment, and remedies for Detroit’s problems.
330

AR 529 Development Practicum
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
Fifth-year standing.


Students, under the direction of the instructor, undertake the analysis of an actual land development project including market analysis, financial feasibility and process of implementation.
316

AR 534 Sustainability Lab
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


This lab applies Sustainable Design strategies to the study of architectural and environmental problems. Passive heating, cooling and daylighting computer software is used to analyze and evaluate building design options and decisions. Project topics vary according to student interest.
330

AR 535 Technology Craft & Invention
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
Fifth-year master’s


This course critically examines and evaluates the work of Carlo Scarpa and Steven Holl. Through comparative case study analysis, we will investigate Scarpa’ s almost obsessive rigor towards craft, detail, ornament, technology, and materiality and the work of Steve Holl who shares Scarpa’s enthusiasm and passion in the search for a lyrical, poetic architecture.
330

AR 547 Interior Design
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


This course explores the qualities of interior space, materiality, design sources and human factors as they relate to architecture as a whole. The student will draw upon and expand the fundamental methods of interior design and the intersection between the human body, architecture and environment through concept, composition and theory.
300

AR 552 Computer Communication & the Practice of Architecture
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


This seminar explores the theoretical aspects of computer communications technology (the World Wide Web–or Internet–and 3D computer modeling of buildings) as it impacts architectural design and how we learn design. This is not a design studio; students analyze and critique the design process, not the results of any architectural project designed together in class. Students learn the implications of "designing together apart"—working with a widely-dispersed, electronically-connected collaborative team.
330

AR 559 Architecture & Construction Law
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
Fifth-year standing.


This course stresses the importance of selecting the proper structure for business ventures such as corporations and partnerships. It explores the liability of architects as a result of client relationships and construction difficulties. Also covered are problems facing the private practitioner, including bonding requirements and architectural malpractice.
330

AR 561 Advanced 3D Design
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
Fifth-year master’s


The course is a "hands on" design build exploration. The term ‘urban furniture’ is shorthand for a construction project that in some way responds to the needs of the human body relative to a particular activity; in this case in the context of some type of public rather than private circumstance. Each student develops a scenario and a specific site within a given neighborhood in Detroit. Designs are developed using drawings, models and mock-ups prior to construction of the full scale objects. Students are given the option to work individually or in pairs.
303

AR 571 Graphic Design
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours


This course explores the architectural application of graphic design, visual communication, signage (wayfinding), business identity, type logo development as transmitted through words and symbols using Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. The student will draw upon and expand the fundamental methods of visual and graphic communication to design and understand the intersection of graphic design, architecture and the environment.
300

AR 589 Vernacular Architecture
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
Fifth-year standing


This course surveys world vernacular architecture, including the folk traditions of the Americas, Africa, Oceania, Europe and Asia. Emphasis in the course is placed on the vernacular architecture of the United States.
330

AR 590 Special Problems: Design
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
Graduate status, and permission of the instructor and the dean.


Courses under this sequence may be applied to the graduate concentration or elective requirements. These courses are basically directed studies with the permission of a faculty member selected by the student. Students electing this path may select any topic that is related to the problems of the environment.
100

AR 591 Special Problems: Visual Communications
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
Graduate status, and permission of the instructor and the dean.


Courses under this sequence may be applied to the graduate concentration or elective requirements. These courses are basically directed studies with the permission of a faculty member selected by the student. Students electing this path may select any topic that is related to the problems of the environment.
100

AR 592 Special Problems: History & Theory
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
Graduate status, and permission of the instructor and the dean.


Courses under this sequence may be applied to the graduate concentration or elective requirements. These courses are basically directed studies with the permission of a faculty member selected by the student. Students electing this path may select any topic that is related to the problems of the environment.
100

AR 593 Special Problems: Structures
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
Graduate status, and permission of the instructor and the dean.


Courses under this sequence may be applied to the graduate concentration or elective requirements. These courses are basically directed studies with the permission of a faculty member selected by the student. Students electing this path may select any topic that is related to the problems of the environment.
100

AR 594 Special Problems: Environmental Technology
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
Graduate status, and permission of the instructor and the dean.


Courses under this sequence may be applied to the graduate concentration or elective requirements. These courses are basically directed studies with the permission of a faculty member selected by the student. Students electing this path may select any topic that is related to the problems of the environment.
100

AR 595 Special Problems: Construction
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
Graduate status, and permission of the instructor and the dean.


Courses under this sequence may be applied to the graduate concentration or elective requirements. These courses are basically directed studies with the permission of a faculty member selected by the student. Students electing this path may select any topic that is related to the problems of the environment.
100

AR 596 Special Problems: Digital
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
Graduate status, and permission of the instructor and the dean.


Courses under this sequence may be applied to the graduate concentration or elective requirements. These courses are basically directed studies with the permission of a faculty member selected by the student. Students electing this path may select any topic that is related to the problems of the environment.
100

AR 597 Special Problems
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
Graduate status, and permission of the instructor and the dean.


Courses under this sequence may be applied to the graduate concentration or elective requirements. These courses are basically directed studies with the permission of a faculty member selected by the student. Students electing this path may select any topic that is related to the problems of the environment.
100

AR 598 Special Problems: Urban Design
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
Graduate status, and permission of the instructor and the dean.


Courses under this sequence may be applied to the graduate concentration or elective requirements. These courses are basically directed studies with the permission of a faculty member selected by the student. Students electing this path may select any topic that is related to the problems of the environment.
100

AR 599 Special Problems: Practice
Credit HoursRecitation/Lecture HoursStudio HoursClinical HoursLab Hours

Prerequisites:
Graduate status, and permission of the instructor and the dean.


Courses under this sequence may be applied to the graduate concentration or elective requirements. These courses are basically directed studies with the permission of a faculty member selected by the student. Students electing this path may select any topic that is related to the problems of the environment.
100

College of Business Administration

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For more information about UDM, or to apply online, go to www.udmercy.edu/apply.


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