ARCHITECTURE CAREER DISCOVERY PROGRAM  (Online Only)

This two-week course is designed to expose students to a high-quality undergraduate architecture program. The core of this course is studio work. In studio, students are immersed in a rigorous creative process that starts with an idea, moves into the development of abstract models, and ultimately leads to the design of an exciting and innovative architectural building proposal. Critique and evaluation of studio work is ongoing, occurring in one-on-one discussions with the instructor and in larger group reviews with invited architectural critics. Studio work is complemented by a series of lectures and presentations, which explore the broader context of architectural practice, contemporary projects, and practitioners, as well as technical concerns such as drawing and model making. High school students entering 10th, 11th, and 12th grade in the fall, interested in future careers in architecture or design-related fields and curious about the world, are encouraged to apply! The first week of the course will focus on building models and drawings. The second week will focus on using the computer as a design tool. Students will learn 3D modeling in Rhinoceros, 2D drawing, and image editing in Adobe Creative Suite. This exciting, immersive workshop will open your eyes to architecture as a future career and provide you with an impressive portfolio piece, essential to be accepted into a premier program like Rensselaer! 

Program Details:
Online session: July 21 - August 1, 2025 (M-F 11 am-6 pm EDT)
Program cost: $1,850
Registration will be on a first-come first-served basis.

Required Equipment:

• Laptop or desktop computer - will be used to connect to video conferencing and to connect to on-campus computers for digital modeling, drawing and rendering. Set your computer on or next to a large, sturdy table or other flat work surface.
•  PC running Windows 10, Windows 11
• MAC running: macOS 15 (Sequoia), macOS 14 (Sonoma), macOS 13 (Ventura), macOS 12.4 (Monterey)
• Processor: 64-bit processor with two cores (includes i3, i5, i7) • RAM: 8 GB Minimum, 10 GB Recommended
• Hard disk space: 5 GB for software and file storage
• Three button mouse w/scroll wheel - REQUIRED to navigate 3D modeling software. It does not need to be fancy or expensive, something like works well: https://www.logitech.com/en-us/products/mice/m310-wireless-mouse.910-001675.html?crid=7
• Adobe Creative Cloud Trial Subscription - This software will only be used during the second week of the course, a seven-day trial subscription is free. Further instruction will be provided during first week of course. For more information see: https://www.adobe.com/creativecloud.html
• Printer - black and white, 8.5”x11”, laser or ink jet. If you do not have a printer and prefer to go to a copy shop to print, that will be fine. All printing can be done at one time before the course starts.