Apply to the Master of Science in Architecture
MS in Arch Application Procedure
Applicants for graduate studies must first submit an application to the LSU Graduate School at the Graduate Admission Application. The Graduate School website includes an online application form and instructions for paying application fees and submitting transcripts and test scores.
Required application materials for the Master of Science in Architecture include:
- Statement of Intent and Research Interests
Submit a statement of approximately two pages (1,000 – 1,300 words) describing your preparation for graduate study, reasons for pursuing the M S in Architecture, and research interests. Use the prompts below to organize your statement:
- Motivation and Goals: What draws you to graduate study, and what do you hope to learn and contribute?
- Background and Preparation: How has your education, work, projects, skills, or other relevant experiences (including professional) prepared you for graduate-level study and research?
- Research Focus: What questions, issues, or subject areas do you want to investigate? A fully developed proposal is not expected.
- Program and Faculty alignment: Identify one or more faculty members whose research background relates to your interests AND explain the perceived connection.
- Required Writing Sample
Submit an existing work* that demonstrates your ability to communicate and develop ideas in written form. Examples could include a research paper, essay, article, book chapter, thesis excerpt, or professional report.
*Include a brief note identifying the sample’s original context (e.g. a course assignment, research project, publication, or professional setting). Where relevant, note your role and any co-authors or collaborators.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume
Submit a current curriculum vitae listing your education, experience, relevant skills, projects, and other representations of preparation for graduate study.
- Letters of Recommendation
Three (3) letters of recommendation submitted online by the recommender. At least one should be from an academic reference.
- Academic Records and English-Language Proficiency
Submit English Proficiency test score, if applicable. See Graduate School webpage for accepted test scores.
- Optional Supporting Content and Information
You may submit additional material that provides useful context regarding your preparation or interests. This could include a creative portfolio (academic and/or professional), research output, or other work relevant to your subject focus and expected research path.
- Interview
You may be invited to an online interview to discuss your interests, preparation, and potential alignment with the faculty mentor/s.
Graduate Assistantships
The School of Architecture awards assistantships each year based on academic credentials. Applicants are automatically considered for assistantships when they request it on the application platform, and they will be notified if an assistantship is awarded. The awards consist of a monetary payment and tuition remission. In exchange, graduate assistants will be assigned as teaching or research assistants to various architecture faculty. If not awarded an assistantship upon admission, students may apply for an assistantship at any semester during their studies.
When to Apply
For priority consideration, apply by February 1.
Financial Aid + Scholarships
The university and the LSU School of Architecture offer financial aid and scholarships to qualifying students. Visit the Architecture Scholarships page on this website to view scholarship opportunities through the school. Visit LSU Financial Aid & Scholarships for more information about opportunities through the university.