Introduction

The programs of the College of Architecture and Environmental Design focus on disciplines within the building profession that impact the built environment. They are linked by a common studio pedagogy that ensures that each student participates in an intensive, creative and interactive learning experience.

The college brings together students and faculty who share a common interest in making our natural, built and social-political environment meaningful, sustainable and accessible to everyone. Degrees are offered in architecture, interior design, urban design and architectural studies. The college encourages cross-disciplinary study and collaborative relationships both inside and outside the profession. International learning and community outreach opportunities are offered through the Florence Program and the Cleveland Urban Design Collaborative (CUDC).

• The architecture program stresses design innovation and excellence through a  
   combination of theoretical explorations, practical applications and comprehensive
   consideration of programmatic requirements, aesthetics and technical concerns.

• The interior design program emphasizes the quality of interior spaces through the
   inquiry and synthesis of design theory and the application of functional and aesthetic 
   requirements of the built environment while stressing the health, safety and    
   welfare of the public.

• The urban design program emphasizes the relationship between buildings and the
   urban landscape as fundamental to the enhancement of neighborhoods, districts,
   recreational areas and the development of the public realm. Collaborative learning
   and design activities among students, faculty members and practitioners are
   promoted through frequent studio-based community and neighborhood outreach 
   efforts organized by the Urban Design Center of Northeast Ohio located in 
   Cleveland, Ohio.

• The architectural studies program allows for a broad and inclusive non-professional
   program in environmental design and allied disciplines.

A variety of graduate degrees build upon the College's undergraduate curriculum and include the professional Master of Architecture degree, the Master of Urban Design and dual degree alternatives.

Mission

The College of Architecture and Environmental Design at Kent State University is dedicated to the education of responsible professionals who are committed to the improvement of the quality of life, enhancement of the physical environment and the protection of the public welfare. The college also promotes research in the various fields of environmental design, development of faculty scholarship, broadening of students’ exposure to advanced theory and techniques and dissemination of knowledge. It contributes to the public welfare through its outreach programs to assist communities in their effort of improving the physical environment.