architecture program report - University of Massachusetts Amherst

Other concerns
The advising system is not sustainable.
The current advising system is too dependent on the program director, and is not sustainable as
the program grows. (The program director's efforts are very much appreciated by students.)
Space needs exist. Planning for expansion should occur.
Plans for the projected expansion of the architecture program into vacated art department space
should be underway. (This vacated space is adjacent to the architecture studios and is available
because of the relocation of the studio arts program into a new building scheduled for completion
in 2008.)
In comparison to typical design programs at research universities, shortcomings in facilities
include;
dedicated design studio presentation areas or classroom spaces for project presentations
satellite reference library space for current periodicals and reserve readings
shop for use by architecture students
social space to promote program collegiality.
in its current location, the program has no physical identity on campus.
Digital resources are inadequate.
Many students use off-campus sources for basic digital services (especially large format printing),
which could be interpreted as a form of social inequity. The computer lab in the building has very
limited hours.
In comparison to other architecture programs, digital needs for the architecture program include:
computer lab available 24/7
up-to-date hardware (although students reported up-to-date software)
output facilities, such as printers, scanners, plotters, etc.
cutting edge digital fabrication technology, such as CNC mills, laser cutters and 3D printers
In the design studios, students of varying skill levels are combined in the same course:
the differentiation in expectations and evaluations for beginning and advanced students in
the same course are unclear.
As the program grows, it may no longer be necessary to "blend" students of different skill levels in
one course.
The Business of Building class does not focus on architecture's needs.
While the Business of Building course is a valuable interdisciplinary course, it lacks the requisite
specificity to meet specific accreditation criteria for a professional program in architecture
Recommendations
The visiting team is confident that UMass can address concerns listed above, as well as
shortcomings identified in the team's review of specific conditions of accreditation.
Additional recommendations include:
Although the 4+2 and the three year graduate degree program overlap in many areas, there
is clearly a 4+2 degree path which should be recognized in the next accreditation process
with a separate NAAB matrix.
The program should take advantage of the Amherst 250 university initiative to recruit 250 new
faculty in five years. The architecture program could benefit with a clear outline of future
faculty needs and "cluster hires" across discipline lines to reinforce the interdisciplinary nature
of the program. Faculty start-up funds can enhance the program's mission.
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Visiting Team Report
24-28 February 2007
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