This program explores architecture through cultural, environmental, and social relevance
while understanding and addressing critical issues facing the built environment. Innovative
design, critical analysis, and communication skills are developed in drawing, writing,
modeling, and collaboration. Students completing the AS degree may apply for transfer
to a university program in architecture, interior architecture, or environmental design,
or obtain an entry-level position in the same fields.
Note: In addition to meeting academic requirements for admittance into a university,
architecture programs also require prospective students to submit a portfolio to review
for admittance into the program. It is recommended that students make an appointment
with counselors at the institution of their choice to inquire about requirements.
After completion of this architecture program, California students have the option
to pursue a license in architecture through the NCARB internship process.
Transfer Preparation
Architecture Associate Degree
Architecture Certificate of Achievement (31 units)
Architecture and Interior Design Digital Production Certificate of Achievement (16
units)
An Associate degree is granted upon successful completion of a program of study with
a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 (C) in degree applicable coursework and
a minimum of 60 degree applicable semester units, including:
Completion of the area of emphasis with a grade of C or higher in each course, or
with a P if the course was taken on a Pass/No Pass basis, and the P is equal to a
C or higher;
Completion of one of the following general education patterns: SMC GE, CSU GE, or
IGETC;
Completion of the SMC Global Citizenship graduation requirement.
A Certificate of Achievement is granted upon successful completion of a program of
study with a minimum overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 (C) and a designated minimum number of units, including:
Completion of the area of emphasis with a grade of C or higher in each course, or
with a P if the course was taken on a Pass/No Pass basis, and the P is equal to a
C or higher;
Completion of at least 50% of area of emphasis units at Santa Monica College. Department
Chairs have the discretion to waive the 50% minimum units required at SMC to meet
the major or area of emphasis. All major coursework must be completed with a “C” or
better grade.
A student may satisfy the requirements of a degree that were in effect at any time
of the student’s continuous enrollment. Continuous enrollment means attendance in at least one semester (Fall
or Spring) in each academic year.
Many colleges/universities offer baccalaureate degrees in this field. Students planning
to transfer to a four-year college or university should complete the lower-division
major requirements and the general education pattern for the specific transfer institution.
SMC has articulation agreements with the many UC and CSU campuses, as well as several
private and out-of-state institutions.
Exact major requirements for UC and CSU campuses can be found online at assist.org.
A listing of private, nonprofit California colleges and universities can be found
online at aiccu.edu. For articulation agreements between SMC and some of these institutions see smc.edu/articulation.
Architecture, Associate Degree or Certificate of Achievement
Program Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of the program, students will demonstrate the ability to research
and analyze critical concepts of design and human interaction within the built environment,
understand architecture’s role in society, develop environmentally responsible designs,
and communicate design concepts through drawing, writing, modeling, and collaboration.
Students will develop a portfolio of work displaying design and technical skills to
apply as an entry level interior architectural designer or drafter, or to transfer
to a university.
Area of Emphasis: (31 units)
Required Courses: (31 units)
AHIS 21,Architectural History: Ancient to 1850(3)
AHIS 22,Architectural History and Theory: 1850 to Present(3)
ARC 10,Studio 1 (formerly INTARC 34B)(3)
ARC 11,Design Communication 1 (formerly INTARC 28B/INTARC 29)(3)
ARC 20,Studio 2: Architecture(3)
ARC 21,Design Communication 2 (formerly INTARC 28A/INTARC 35)(3)
ARC 30,Studio 3: Architecture(3)
ARC 31,Design Communication 3 (formerly INTARC 38)(3)
ARC 32,Construction Materials and Methods(3)
ARC 40,Studio 4: Architecture(3)
ARC 70,Portfolio(2)
Architecture and Interior Design Digital Production, Certificate of Achievement
This certificate provides students with practical knowledge using industry standard
tools and techniques. Focus is on communicating ideas and projects using a variety
of technical skills including digital drafting, modeling, rendering, image enhancement,
fabrication and the use of VR in the design industry. Students will be prepared to
work in a wide range of design disciplines including, architecture, interior design,
fixture and furnishing design, and 3D rendering firms.
Program Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of the certificate, students will demonstrate the ability to communicate
designs and projects through drawing, modeling, and collaboration. Students will develop
a portfolio of work displaying a variety of technical skills to apply as an entry
level drafter or renderer.
Area of Emphasis: (16 units)
Required Courses: (16 units)
ARC 11,Design Communication 1 (formerly INTARC 28B/INTARC 29)(3)
ARC 21,Design Communication 2 (formerly INTARC 28A/INTARC 35)(3)
ARC 31,Design Communication 3 (formerly INTARC 38)(3)
ARC 41,Design Communication 4 (formerly INTARC 70)(3)
ARC 51,Design Communication 5 (formerly INTARC 65)(3)
