Admissions Information
The University of Utah utilizes an online admission application system called “SLATE.” The application can be completed online and submitted electronically once all required fields on the application have been completed. As a new user of the application system, you will first need to create a user account. After creating a user account, a unique PIN and password will be issued to you. The PIN and password will enable you to access, input and save information.
Application Deadlines and Requirements
To be considered for admission into the Master of Science in Architectural Studies (MSAS) program, applicants must have a fully completed application on file with the School by the deadline corresponding to the semester the applicant wishes to enter the program:
Fall Semester: January 10
(Priority deadline for admissions and scholarships is January 10th. After January 10th rolling admissions until May 1st.)
Materials
The non-refundable graduate application fee for applications to the University of Utah is $55. Applications submitted after the application deadline will incur an additional $30 late fee.
Applicants must write and upload a personal statement in the online application. This and all supporting documents help us get to know your work, your goals, and your research interests. Your personal statement should articulate why you are drawn to architectural research, and what proposed area of study you would like to pursue. Limit your response to a one-page PDF document; maximum number of words is 500. We recommend that you write your personal statement before beginning the online application.
Two letters of recommendation are required for all applicants. We recommend that the letters come from people familiar with the applicant’s design skills. To facilitate this process, you will be asked as part of your online application to enter the names and contact information (including email addresses) of your two recommenders. Once that information is saved, an email will be sent automatically to the recommender with an access code and instructions on how to proceed with the online recommendation. Note that recommendation requests are sent immediately to the recommenders once you save that information, regardless of whether you have completed your application. Please remind recommenders that letters must be completed and submitted by the appropriate deadline.
All applicants must submit a digital portfolio of their work. Your digital portfolio should include evidence of recent, different types of creative work, including more complex assignments. Include what you think is representative of your best work, and what is expressive of you. You may also include any other material you feel would contribute to a more complete understanding of your experience and potential as an architecture student in our program. If you include work done in a professional office or studio, you must identify the professional’s name, your specific contribution to the project and your level of involvement. The manner of presentation is left to your discretion.
Your digital portfolio must contain a title page that includes the following information only: your name, address, phone number, and your University of Utah identification number (if you have one). Maximum file size is limited to 5 mb and no longer than 20 pages. Please know that the title page does not count toward the 20 page limit.
You are required to upload an unofficial transcript from each institution you have attended. Uploading unofficial transcripts will significantly decrease the amount of time required to process your application. Official transcripts will be required if you are admitted.
All international applicants to the University of Utah must provide proof of English proficiency. The acceptable tests and minimum scores are:
- TOEFL: 80 or higher
- IELTS*: 6.5 or higher (*IELTS Indicator is not approved for admissions at this time.)
- DUOLINGO: 105 or higher
- ACT English score of 18 or higher
- SAT Reading score of 27 or higher
Program Information for the Online Application System
The following information provides tips on how to correctly complete specific sections of the online application. The headings below relate to the major sections in the online form.
Program Information:
- Intended graduate program and degree: “Architecture MS”
- Emphasis area: “Regular”
- Application Term and Year: “Fall”
NOTE: Information provided are estimates calculated based on tuition rates found on Bursar's and of Scholarship & Financial Aid ) webpages. The rates are subject to change per university policy. Tuition listed on this document includes university and differential tuition. Fees include university mandatory fees only (course fees are not included).
*Students qualifying for WRGP pay 150% resident university tuition. More information can be found at https://gradschool.utah.edu/funding/wrgp/
***Books and supplies can cost can range between $300 - $600 depending on the format students choose for books (i.e. hard cover print, digital, rental) and the materials they choose to use in studio projects.