ARCH 1540 History of Architecture

Year
Year 1
Semester
First Semester
Credit
3
Program Description

A survey of architectural styles, movements, and cultural contexts from ancient to modern times.

About this course

Explore the story of how humans have built their surroundings, from ancient temples to modern skyscrapers. This course surveys architectural styles, movements, and cultural contexts from ancient to modern times. You will look at how geography, religion, politics, and technology have shaped the way we live and work.

You will examine landmark buildings and the architects who designed them, while also considering the everyday structures that define our cities. The course covers a wide range of periods, including classical antiquity, the medieval era, the Renaissance, the industrial revolution, and contemporary sustainable design.

Who takes this course

This course is an elective for students in the Architectural Technology program. It is also open to students in other programs who are interested in the history of the built environment.

Credits: 3 · Hours: 45

Prerequisites

None

Learning outcomes

  • Identify major architectural styles and periods from antiquity to the present day.
  • Analyze the cultural, social, and economic contexts that influenced key buildings.
  • Examine the evolution of building materials and structural systems over time.
  • Discuss the role of famous architects in shaping the built environment.
  • Recognize regional variations in architectural traditions across different continents.

Evaluation

Component Weight (%)
Midterm examination 30
Research paper on a specific architectural movement 40
Final examination 30