Background
The Caribbean School of Architecture (CSA), located at the University of Technology, Jamaica, is a unique school of architecture which serves the English-speaking territories within the Caribbean Region. The school admitted its first students in 1988 and currently offers two accredited programmes of study: The pre-professional Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies (BAAS) and the professional Master of Architecture (M.Arch).
As an architectural training centre, CSA is committed to the investigation of the role of architecture and architects within the social and economic structure of the Caribbean and beyond. To achieve this, the school has developed a research base and has established links across the language barriers of the Region.
Being a true Caribbean institution, the school’s current enrollment includes approximately 170 students of which roughly 30% come from Caribbean territories outside of Jamaica.
The Programme
Although the programme is Caribbean-centered, the education delivered embraces principles that our graduates can apply anywhere in the world. In addition, the B.A.A.S. employs an outcomes-based approach which focuses on equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to be of immediate benefit in the architectural spheres of the workplace. Being a pre-professional degree, the programme also serves as excellent preparation for further graduate studies not only in a professional programme of Architecture but also other related disciplines.
This multivalency of our offer is seen in the activities of our graduates. Our graduates have worked not only in the field of architectural practice, but also in areas of graphic design, landscape design, conservation management, interiors, education, project management and urban planning throughout North America, Europe, Africa, Australasia, China, Latin America and the Caribbean.
Programme Structure
The BAAS is a full time four year course (8 semesters) which provides a suite of modules aimed at providing students with the tools to work in an architect’s office as well as pursue higher education. All modules are structured within the subject areas of General Education (including Management and “Electives”), Architectural History and Theory, Technology (Structures, Services, Construction), Computing, and Design Studio.
Design Studio
The design studio has a significant educational role in the school. In the studio, the student actively participates in creatively relating new knowledge to present understanding. This gives meaning and relevance to what is learnt in other spheres of the school as well as generating commitment and enjoyment.
Study Tours
The study tours are a popular and relevant feature of the course of study. Early in the second semester every year 3rd and 4th year students travel to other Caribbean territories. There they explore, analyse, document and experience Caribbean cities which also serve as contexts for later design projects.
Facilities
The school offers specialized facilities and resources; including 24hr dedicated design studio space, an art studio, two computer suites, wireless internet, exclusive seminar/pinup space, a well stocked library and access to online databases.
When and how to apply:
Application forms are available from the UTech Admissions Office and on the University’s Website. (www.utechjamaica.edu.jm). Application forms may be downloaded from the said website.
Applications are usually collected from November – January each year for the following academic year.
Entry Requirements
1. Minimum of Five (5) CXC O'Levels - Mathematics and English Language (grades 1 & 2 only) being compulsory. The other three (3) subjects may be in any of the following disciplines: Sciences, Technical/Visual Arts or Humanities. The Grades for CXC should be 1, 2 and 3(acceptable since June 1998), GCE - A, B & CAPE both Unit 1 and 2 - Grades 1-5. CXC passes in Technical Drawing gives no advantage and study in a modern foreign language would be an asset.
Note: Securing a place in the Architecture School is extremely competitive and as such better grades are normally looked at first.
2. If an applicant has higher qualifications, this will also be looked at in terms of advanced placement at one extreme or possible exemption from some modules at another extreme.
Interview
Having satisfied requirements for entry and based on the number of applicants that applied, persons may be called for an interview and an examination of their portfolio. In lieu of an interview, overseas applicants are required to send their portfolios (with letters of recommendation and a written statement) upon applying to the school.
Portfolio
Portfolios should include a minimum of 8-10 pieces of the applicant’s best creative/technical work. This may be of a wide variety (not limited to): various kinds of free hand drawing, sketches, paintings; other creative pieces of work done (including creative writing eg. Poetry); three-dimensional work (e.g. sculpture, furniture, ceramics, craftwork, models etc.) represented in two-dimensional format, such as photographs; photographic work (if you are a photographer), high quality technical drawings (CAD drawings will not give any advantage so do not include as part of your portfolio).
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