This information is part of the Colgate University catalog, 2026-27.
The Architecture minor offers a program of study in which our undergraduates can become more adept at understanding the power of the built environment to shape lives and embody societal values.
Minor Requirements
The minor includes a minimum of six courses as follows.
Introductory Course
Five Electives
Courses fulfilling this requirement have an attribute of AREL in the course offerings.
Students may apply to the Architectural Studies Minor Coordinator for permission to integrate one course from outside the ARTS department into their minor concentration, as a substitute for one of the following requirements.
History, Theory, and Praxis of Architecture
Courses fulfilling this requirement have an attribute of ARHT and/or ARTS in the course offerings
At least two courses:
- ARTS 106 - Principles of Architecture: The Colgate Campus as Laboratory
- ARTS 211 - Drawing
- ARTS 218 - Interdisciplinary Design Studio
- ARTH 220 - Early Modern European Architecture
- ARTH 244 - Housing the Sacred in Ancient India
- ARTS 271 - Design Principles in Architecture: Iteration, Failure, and Creative Process
- ARTH 277 - Modern Architecture 1880-1970
- ARTH 344 - Hindu Temples: Architecture and Sculpture, Architecture as Sculpture
Architecture and its Interaction with other Arts and Cultural forms
Courses fulfilling this requirement have an attribute of ARIN in the course offerings
No more than two:
- ARTH 207 - Roman Art
- ARTH 245 - Palaces and Paintings of India
- ARTH 262 - War and Plunder
- ARTH 360 - Borderlands
Additional Elective
Courses fulfilling this requirement have an attribute of AREL in the course offerings.
Complete at least one course from the following:
- ARTS 271 - Design Principles in Architecture: Iteration, Failure, and Creative Process
- ARTS 263 - Sculpture: Surface and Form
- ARTS 264 - Sculpture: Material & Process
- ARTS 312 - Advanced Drawing
- ENST 274 - Sustainability and the Built Environment
Graduate Study Recommendations
Students anticipating graduate work in architecture should be aware that liberal arts experience is highly valued by the best graduate schools. To prepare for graduate work in architecture, students should take or and one semester of calculus. Experience in studio courses, especially drawing (), sculpture ( or ), is extremely valuable in the preparation of a graduate portfolio. The study of historical architecture and the ways in which architecture connects to society is promoted in many art courses such as , , , , , , and . Students interested in careers in architecture should contact the architecture adviser.
Art Department
For more information about the department, including Faculty, transfer credit, awards, etc., please visit the catalog page.