About Department of Architecture · Seattle
The Department of Architecture at the University of Washington is one of five departments within the College of Built Environments, offering undergraduate and graduate programs in architectural design, history, theory, and technology. Founded in 1913, it has evolved into a leading academic program with over 200 students and 30 faculty members. The department emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, equity, and community engagement through research, teaching, and public projects such as the CITY ERASED exhibition. It is part of a larger university with over 50,000 students and 27,600 staff, located in Seattle, WA.
The Department of Architecture at the University of Washington offers a range of accredited degree programs including B.A. in Architectural Studies and Design, NAAB-accredited M.Arch programs (2+ and 3+ year), M.S. in Architecture with research tracks in Design Computing and History & Theory, and dual/concurrent degrees with Construction Management and Landscape Architecture. It also provides certificates in Design Computing and Lighting Design. The department traces its roots to 1913 and has grown from a small program to a major academic unit with over 200 students and 30 faculty. It is known for its commitment to bold thought leadership, equitable practices, and community engagement, as seen in projects like the CITY ERASED exhibition and faculty involvement in urban preservation efforts. The department is housed in Gould Hall on the University of Washington’s Seattle campus, with offices in Room 208 on the second floor.
- In business
- since 1913
- Serves
- Seattle, WA; regional and national academic outreach
About the Department
The Department of Architecture is the largest of five departments in the College of Built Environments, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It traces its origins to 1913 and has grown to include over 200 students and 30 faculty members. The department is known for its commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, bold thought leadership, and equitable and just practices.
Programs Offered
The department offers a variety of degree programs including B.A. in Architectural Studies and Design, NAAB-accredited M.Arch programs, M.S. in Architecture with research tracks in Design Computing and History & Theory, and dual/concurrent degrees with Construction Management and Landscape Architecture. Certificates in Design Computing and Lighting Design are also available.
- B.A. in Architectural Studies
- B.A. in Architectural Design
- NAAB-accredited M.Arch (2+ and 3+ year)
- M.S. in Architecture (Design Computing, History & Theory)
- Dual degrees with Construction Management and Landscape Architecture
- Certificates in Design Computing and Lighting Design
History and Legacy
Founded in 1913, the department has a rich history of growth and innovation. It began in a temporary building called 'The Shack' and moved through several locations before settling into Gould Hall in 1972. The department has been instrumental in shaping Seattle’s urban landscape through research, teaching, and community engagement.
- Founded in 1913
- Moved to Gould Hall in 1972
- Key figures include Carl F. Gould, Harlan Thomas, and Lionel Pries
- Faculty involvement in preservation of Pioneer Square and Pike Place Market
- Adopted Bauhaus methodology in the 1940s
- Grew rapidly after WWII with G.I. Bill support
Contact and Location
The department is located in Gould Hall on the University of Washington’s Seattle campus. Offices are in Room 208 on the second floor. The mailing address is Box 355720, Seattle, WA 98195-5720. The phone number is 206.543.4180 and the email is [email protected].
- Mailing Address: 208 Gould Hall, Box 355720, Seattle, WA 98195-5720
- Shipping Address: 208 Gould Hall, 3950 University Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105
- Phone: 206.543.4180
- Email: [email protected]
- Location: Gould Hall, 2nd floor, Room 208, on the west side of the main campus facing NE 40th St.