Source:From sustainability to urbanism and vernacular architecture to parametric architecture, the possibilities to learn are endless. The real question lies in deciding the right skills to learn and what best online architecture courses to take. These are some of the topics that will be discussed in the article below.
Looking on the bright side, the covid pandemic has emphasized the importance of continuous learning. This period has also elevated the appeal of online courses, offering the prospect of learning whatever, whenever one desires. Hopping on to the trend, many universities now offer online certified courses taught by top professionals. This article complies a list of online courses offered by various universities worldwide.
LIST OF UNIVERSITIES PROVIDING ONLINE COURSES OUT OF INDIA:• Harvard Graduate School of Design.
• The University of Hong Kong.
• Southern California Institute of Architecture.
• Bartlett School of Architecture.
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
• Yale University.
• IE School of Architecture and Design.
• Johns Hopkins University.
• University of Michigan.
• University of Tokyo.
WHAT ARE THE COURSES PROVIDED BY THE ABOVE UNIVERSITIES:
1. Harvard Graduate School of Design: The Architectural Imagination.
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Podcasts and interviews are used to delve into the interpretation of architecture as both a cultural statement and a technical feat. This is explained by exploring significant historical buildings and hands-on drawing and modeling exercises. Starting with fundamental principles in architectural representation and forms, one will deepen one’s comprehension of the societal and historical backdrop influencing major architectural creations.
Overall, the course provides a holistic view of architecture, encompassing technical, aesthetic, political, and economic aspects within a society. It offers insight into how architecture engages, mediates, and expresses a culture's intricate aspirations, making it a globally recognized and multifaceted cultural practice.
Platform: edX.
Language: English.
Difficulty: Introductory.
Duration: 10 weeks.
Credit: Audit free. Minimal fee for verified certificate.
keywords: architecture, art history, drawing.
2. The University of Hong Kong: The Search for Vernacular Architecture of Asia.
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This course explores vernacular architecture as a reflection of local identity, indigenous traditions, and cultural assimilation. Understanding the interaction between built form, native building materials, and the dynamic between people, culture, and the landscape. The course places a special focus on Asian built heritage with diverse case studies.
Designed to foster discussion and dialogue, this course challenges preconceptions about tradition and encourages a deeper examination of one's local environment. One’s insights on how this newfound understanding relates to vernacular architecture in one’s own neighborhood are highly encouraged and valued.
Platform: edX.
Language: English.
Difficulty: Introductory.
Duration: 5 weeks.
Credit: Audit free. Minimal fee for verified certificate.
keywords: Landscaping, Built Environment, Reinforced Concrete
Link: https://www.edx.org/course/search-vernacular-architecture-asia-part-hkux-hku02-1x
3. Southern California Institute of Architecture: Master of Architecture (M.Arch) program
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One of the top-ranked Master of Architecture (M.Arch) program provided by the Southern California Institute of Architecture can be explored from the comfort of home. One can find video lectures relating to architecture and design spanning over 45+ years. Users have the convenience of filtering videos by year, lecturer, and topic, which proves to be quite handy.
Platform: SCI-Arc Media Archive.
Language: English.
Difficulty: Introductory.
Duration: 3 months.
Credit: Paid.
keywords: architecture, online certified.
4. Bartlett School of Architecture: Green Architecture.
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User-friendly website with prerecorded lectures on green architecture and environment corresponding architecture. These videos are case studies of Ar. Vo Trong Nghia projects, which are fine examples of sustainable architecture. His design integrates inexpensive, local materials and traditional skills with contemporary aesthetics and modern methodologies.
Platform: vimeo.com.
Language: English.
Difficulty: Introductory.
Duration: Self-pace.
Credit: Free.
keywords: green architecture, sustainable architecture.
5. Massachusetts Institute of Technology: A Global History of Architecture.
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If one wants to understand the human civilizations from early groups to modern-day cities human advancements, and their impact on the lifestyle. Impact of the introduction of iron in the ninth century BCE on regional politics and the development of architecture.
It gives an overall understanding on the formation of different religions and their significant influence on architecture. It gives a thorough view of the world history and development.
Platform: edX.
Language: English.
Difficulty: Introductory.
Duration: 13 weeks.
Credit: Audit free. Minimal fee for verified certificate.
keywords: architecture, art history.
Link: https://www.edx.org/course/global-history-architecture-mitx-4-605x#
6. Yale University: Podcasts on iTunes.
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A series of 17 public lectures by Yale University, discussing a variety of topics in architecture. These can be easily downloaded and played on iTunes. Landscape urbanism, freedomland, the American land and remapping my world are some of the topics of the podcasts.
The entire experience becomes easy as the podcasts once downloaded can be played anytime and anywhere. The only requirement is that iTunes is needed.
Platform: edX.
Language: English.
Difficulty: Introductory.
Duration: Self pace.
Credit: Audit free.
keywords: architecture, yale university, public lecture series.
7. IE School of Architecture and Design: Making Architecture.
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It is a very small crash course for students trying to understand the inner workings of an architect's mind. The way they see space, vision to better things, teamwork, creative and analytical thinking. Exploring the relationship between the architect has with the environment (both its material environment and its social environment). To be able to think about and map a building's broader in terms of social and material context.
Through an example of creating space, the technical aspects of bringing a design concept to life will be understood. The use of emotional connect to the design to be able to sell it to a larger audience is also explained through examples. The complete course is an amalgamation of teachings and hands-on work which really makes a person to ask the right questions on how to become a better architect.
Platform: Coursera.
Language: English.
Difficulty: Introductory.
Duration: 13 hours.
Credit: Paid.
keywords: architecture, design process.
Link: https://www.coursera.org/learn/making-architecture#%20
8. Johns Hopkins University: Sustainable Regional Principles, Planning and Transportation.
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Multiple lectures regarding sustainable design on a regional level. Understating the building principles, planning and connectivity throughout the city. Understanding sustainability with respect to green construction. There are connecting lectures on similar topics of sustainability.
The course can be heard in 8 different languages with more than 21 language subtitles. It’s a 4 module in this course. Dynamic video lectures, practical case studies, and the evaluation of practices for assessment help in large-scale development goals with sustainability at its core. Transportation, Sustainable Buildings, Green Construction and Sustainable Transportation Networks, and Streetscapes can be the next connecting lectures to get a thorough understanding.
Platform: Coursera.
Language: English.
Difficulty: Intermediate.
Duration: Self pace.
Credit: Paid. Sharable verified certificate.
keywords: Environmental Protection, Zoning Strategies, Regional Park Planning, Efficient Transportation Systems, Regional Planning.
Link: https://www.coursera.org/learn/sustainable-regional-principles-planning-and-transportation
9. University of Michigan: Principles of Designing for Humans.
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The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving, and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future. The platform of online lectures become a stepping stone in this mission.
Platform: edX.
Language: English.
Difficulty: Introductory.
Duration: Self pace.
Credit: Audit free. Minimal fee for verified certificate.
keywords: architecture.
Link: https://www.edx.org/school/michiganx
10. University of Tokyo: Four Facets of Contemporary Japanese Architecture.
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Exploring Modern Japanese Architecture in Tokyo: Showcasing the creations of prominent Japanese architects and delving into the underlying principles of contemporary architectural practices. This is a component of the Four Facets of Contemporary Japanese Architecture XSeries Program, spanning a comprehensive 7-month curriculum.
Platform: edX.
Language: English.
Difficulty: Introductory.
Duration: 8 weeks.
Credit: Audit free. Minimal fee for verified certificate.
keywords: contemporary architecture, Japanese architecture.
Link: https://www.edx.org/course/four-facets-contemporary-japanese-utokyox-utokyo004
Online architectural courses offered by universities globally are a valuable resource for those seeking to excel in the field. These programs provide flexible learning options, accommodating students' schedules and allowing them to balance their studies with other commitments. Covering a wide array of topics such as design principles, construction techniques, sustainability, and urban planning, these courses offer a comprehensive education in architecture.
One of the significant advantages lies in the diverse range of specializations available, catering to various interests and career aspirations. Some universities may emphasize sustainable design, historic preservation, or urban planning, ensuring that students can tailor their education to their specific passions. Accredited programs often feature experienced faculty and a rigorous curriculum, maintaining high academic standards and providing students with a robust education.
Furthermore, online architectural courses foster a global learning community, enabling students to interact with peers from different cultural and professional backgrounds. This international perspective enriches the educational experience, exposing students to a wide array of architectural styles, practices, and challenges worldwide.
Online architectural courses provided by various universities worldwide offer a diverse range of learning opportunities for aspiring architects. They provide accessible and flexible options for individuals seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in the field of architecture. These courses cover a wide spectrum of topics, including design principles, construction techniques, sustainability, and urban planning. The quality of education can vary depending on the institution, so it's crucial for prospective students to research and choose a program that aligns with their specific goals and interests. Overall, online architectural courses offer a valuable avenue for professional development and can be a convenient option for those unable to attend traditional on-campus programs.
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Text provided by Padmavathi Dalia -
Padmavathi Dalia is a promising architect, set to graduate from L.S. Raheja School of Architecture. Her passion lies in translating her thoughts, experiences, and beliefs into eloquent writings. With a profound interest in sustainable and green architecture, she aims to make a positive impact on the built environment. She wholeheartedly embraces the vision of Dr. Prem C. Jain in fostering a GREEN BHARAT.
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