University Studies — Global Arts, Planning, Design and Construction Concentration
The Bachelor of Science in University Studies at Texas A&M University offers a unique degree plan made just for you. In the global art, planning, design and construction concentration, you’ll receive a multidisciplinary education that draws from all our departments. No matter where you started your college education, this program will help you get to where you want to go for your career.
About the Program
The university studies program allows you to tailor a degree to your interests. Through integrative coursework, you’ll learn the skills you’ll need for careers that support the built, natural, and virtual environments.
Our flexible program allows you to pursue wide interests or develop a precise focus. You’ll complete concentrated coursework within the School of Architecture and select two minors to complement your studies. The courses and minors you choose determine the breadth and depth of your education.
Areas of Emphasis
- Architecture
- Landscape Architecture
- Urban Planning
- Construction Management
- Land and Property Development
Careers
Our graduates pursue careers in architecture, planning, design, and construction related fields. Recent graduates have gotten jobs in the following positions:
Video editor
Superintendent
Designer
Construction Manager
Planner
Project Engineer
Field Engineer
Architecture Intern
Marketing
Audio Visual Technician
Graduates are also prepared to enter graduate school to earn a professional degree in the fields of:
- Architecture
- Landscape Architecture
- Urban Planning
- Construction Management
- Land & Property Development
* Salary ranges estimated from PayScale.
Curriculum
The university studies program requires 25 credit hours of coursework in the School of Architecture and two 15- to 18-credit-hour minors. One minor must be outside the School of Architecture.
| Component | Hours |
|---|---|
| Design | 3 |
| Global and Cultural Discourse | 3 |
| Construction | 3 |
| Leadership | 3 |
| Urban Planning | 3 |
| Study Abroad | 7 |
| Directed Electives | 3 |
| POLS 206 | 3 |
| POLS 207 | 3 |
| American History | 6 |
| Communication | 6 |
| Creative Arts | 3 |
| Mathematics | 6 |
| Language, Philosophy and Culture | 3 |
| Life and Physical Sciences | 9 |
| Social Sciences | 3 |
| Minor 1 | 15-18 |
| Minor 2 | 15-18 |
| General Electives | 17-23 |
| TOTAL HOURS | 120 |
Example University Studies – Architecture Degree Plan (PDF)
Common Minor Combinations
The combination of minors you choose is up to you and your desired career path.
Graphic Design
- Communications
- Ag Communication and Journalism
- Computer Science
- Creative Studies
Architecture *
- Art & Architectural History
- Urban & Regional Planning
- Business
Landscape Architecture *
- Urban & Regional Planning
- Business
- Horticulture
- Environmental Soil Science
- Rangeland Ecology and Management
- Park and Natural Resources
Land Developers or Real Estate Agents
- Urban & Regional Planning
- Business
- Park and Natural Resources
- Economics
*To become a licensed architect or landscape architect, you must attend graduate school.
Featured Courses
How to Apply
Admission to our program is offered to students seeking a bachelor’s degree and who meet the Texas A&M University’s entrance requirements.
FAQ about the admission process
How can I prepare for the university studies program?
We highly recommend that you talk to an academic advisor before applying to this program.
Is a portfolio required to apply?
No.
Can I change my major to university studies?
Yes. Here are the minimum requirements for acceptance into the major:
- Have an interest in pursuing a career related to the built environment or design
- Have a 2.0 or higher cumulative GPA
- Be in good academic and conduct standing with TAMU
- Must have completed at least one full semester at Texas A&M
- Must have completed less than 90 credit hours
- Submit your completed application by the appropriate deadline
Meeting these requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the program. Unfortunately space is limited and applications will be reviewed and approved in relation to the pool of applications received for a specific semester and current space limitations.
Do you accept transfer students?
Yes. Prospective transfer students are strongly encouraged to meet with an advisor to review their transcripts and address questions before they apply. Transfer students can apply directly to the program, but must submit an additional essay. We encourage you to respond to essay topic C in the Texas Common Application to discuss your intended career path, your two minors, and how this major will benefit you. Transfer students must have the following in order to apply:
- 2.5 GPA*
- 24 credit hours of transferable coursework*
- An additional essay outlining their academic and professional goals
Do you review second choice majors?
Yes, we do review second choice majors.
How does the admission process work?
Submit your application to Texas A&M University through ApplyTexas or Coalition. Select USAR – Global Arts, Planning, Design and Construction as your intended major in your application.
How much does it cost to attend?
The cost to attend varies depending on a variety of factors, including semester of admission, student type, how many hours you take per semester, and rate type. Use the Texas A&M Tuition Calculator to get the best estimate of your tuition cost per semester.
Additional costs to consider include course materials, housing, meal plans, parking, and fees.
What kinds of financial aid does the program offer?
Numerous scholarships and financial aid are available through Texas A&M University and the School of Architecture. Incoming freshmen applicants are considered for university scholarships through the ApplyTexas Application or the Coalition Application. Continuing students can apply for additional scholarships through the University Scholarship Application for Continuing Students. For more information about university scholarships, visit scholarships.tamu.edu.
Who can I go to with questions?
For additional information regarding the university studies program, please contact Alondra Rojas, academic advisor, at arojas@arch.tamu.edu or 979.845.1144, or Michael Clement, academic advisor, at mclement@arch.tamu.edu, or 979.845.1144.
Semester Away
Our students have unique opportunities to learn from industry-related faculty in foreign countries. All University Studies – Global Arts, Planning, Design & Construction students must take part in a faculty-led, five-week summer study abroad program. Students can participate in a 15-week study abroad program for more in-depth study instead of a summer study abroad program.
Our Study Abroad Opportunities