Brian Y

Hmm, I actually know plenty of assistant and associate profs. who only have MLAs (though generally post-prof., so MLA IIs or MLAUD). What they’ve told me is that you really have to have breadth in your very specific area of focus, so having publications (this seems to be key), having competitions under your belt, working for a firm, having…[Read more]

Also, my portfolio that got me into UBC’s MLA program had 2 arch projects, 1 urban design project, 1 wood sculpture, a few paintings/drawings, a few photographs, 1 super 8 film, and 1 spread of sketches.

Not sure if Trish from UBC’s admiss sent you this, but you may find this useful. Also, it’s a bit lengthy and I’m too lazy to edit it down.

Thoughts on the Portfolio portion of a UBC Architecture application…The portfolio is the most important element of an application to the UBCArchitecture and, in all likelihood, any school of architecture.…[Read more]

@mauiBob,
I wrote this in reply to another one of your posts, but I’ll copy it here as well.
What I find funny is that, coming from architecture (also a field that is extremely cyclical), I’ve actually found a plethora of jobs in both arch. and LA between 09-now (basically when our economy tanked), all extremely well paying, and this seems to hold…[Read more]

Most people who go for a post-prof 1 year MLA aren’t doing it to take the same courses as they did for their BLA, but rather for research and academic purposes (at least at most top schools).

And mauiBob, the masters realm is still dominated by MLA 1s, not MLA APs. What I find funny is that, coming from architecture (also a field that is…[Read more]

An MLA is typically 3 years.

Shoot me a message if you’d like a more comprehensive pros/cons list of the GSD based on the feedback I received. I also went to the Open House a few days ago.

I was in the same round of applications as you, so I’ll be starting the GSD this fall! As such, can’t really comment on my experience, but I have talked to quite a few current and former students. All GSD MLA grads that I know are employed, as are their classmates. As counter-intuitive as it may seem, I would actually be less concerned with…[Read more]

@Jaideep, well, it would be 3 years regardless for me, seeing as it’s MLA 1. I actually think 3 is a perfect length in order to learn both design, plant ids, theory, history, etc. at all scales and situations.

I was also recently in your shoes choosing between MLA programs, and ended up turning down a full ride to LSU in order to accrue a hefty bill from the GSD.

As you say, UMich and the GSD are very different MLA programs (I’d argue polar opposite in terms of teaching style and emphasis). UMich, being housed in the SNR, has a much stronger emphasis…[Read more]