Master of Science in Architecture, Option in Mass Timber Design

The Master of Science in Architecture is a post-professional program designed to provide advanced and specialized training for students who desire in-depth, design-based research in areas of practice not offered in traditional professional degree programs.

The Option in Mass Timber Design is a one-calendar-year (three semester) program designed for holders of a professional degree in architecture (Bachelor or Master of Architecture) or its international equivalent, or an equivalent degree in an affiliated discipline.

Through research and design coursework, the program will cultivate leadership in design practice and project realization associated with new technologies in wood and bio-based material systems. The degree will prepare students to engage in implementation-based research while working effectively within collaborative, interdisciplinary teams through the Auburn Mass Timber Collaborative.

Admissions and Application Process

To gain acceptance into the Auburn University MSA Program, applicants must submit the following directly to the Graduate School by January 5 of the year in which they intend to enter the program. This date serves as the priority deadline for admission and assistantship consideration; however, applications submitted after this date will continue to be reviewed on a space-available basis.

Online Application

• Personal statement (500 words)
• Resume
• Portfolio of design work (30 pages max)
• Academic transcripts (minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0)
• Three letters of recommendation
• English proficiency score (for international applicants only)

Applicants must have completed a professional Bachelor of Architecture degree or a Bachelor’s degree in an allied design discipline by May 2027.

Graduate Research Assistantships

The Master of Science in Architecture Program offers a limited number of Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA) each year. These GRA positions provide a partial- or full-tuition waiver and a monthly stipend along with the experience of working alongside a faculty member on dedicated research during the academic semester. GRA positions are highly competitive and based on available funding.

Assistantships are awarded based on merit. The review committee evaluates the applicant’s full program application to assess their merit for the position. In addition to the standard application materials, students who wish to be considered for an assistantship should submit a cover letter to Graduate Program Chair David Shanks (drs0079@auburn.edu). This cover letter should describe particular skills that could be beneficial to the advancement of faculty research, current research interests, and whether the applicant’s participation in the Master of Science in Architecture Program is dependent on the assistantship.