Undergraduate Bulletin - Illinois Institute of Technology

Course Descriptions
ARCH 481
Materiality in Architecture
This history/theory course examines the topic of materiality
in contemporary architecture and explores the different
approaches, ideas, and philosophies associated with aspects
of materiality in architecture through investigation and
discussion of case study projects by contemporary architects.
Students are introduced to a variety of approaches to the topic
since the dawn of the Modern Movement, and they explore
how different contemporary architects approach the ideas
of materiality in their work through their words, thoughts,
and built work. Thematic topics related to materiality are
also discussed, including landscape, technology, and memory.
Open only to Architecture majors.
(3-0-3)
ARCH 485
Structures I: Concepts
Examination of the basic and vast range of structural concepts
and solutions, in an illustrated and summary format.
Examples include historic as well as contemporary structures.
Statics and strength of materials, beam theory, shear and
bending moment diagrams, deflection analysis. Overview
of systems choices in architectural applications. History of
strength of materials.
(3-0-3)
ARCH 486
Structures II: Design of Wood & Steel
Analysis, design and detailing of tectonic systems (steel and
wood). Design of compression, tension and flexural members.
Design of timber beams and columns. Design of steel beams
and columns. The behavior of structures under static and
dynamic loads. Analysis, design and detailing of concrete
and masonry systems. Theory of reinforced concrete applied
to beams and slabs.
Prerequisite(s): [(ARCH 485)]
(3-0-3)
ARCH 487
Eco Structures
Research seminar giving focus to new technologies, especially
complex structures: biotechnic, pneumatic, ultra-tall,
composite structures, etc. Students conduct research using
literature, data sources, and ideas to prepare imaginative
small project interdisciplinary approach to solving problems
in the built environment.
(3-0-3)
ARCH 488
Long-Span & Special Structures
Introduction of structural systems for long spans and special
structures. The structural behavior will be discussed and the
required strength and stiffness will be evaluated. Individual
projects will be assigned to students to be presented at the
end of the course.
(3-0-3)
ARCH 489
Structural Systems for Tall Buildings & Long-Span Structures
This course reviews the historical development of the interaction
of the structure with architecture and explores
future trends and directions. The suitability of different
materials and systems will be studied, with emphasis placed
on efficiency.
(3-0-3)
ARCH 491
Special Problems
Independent study of projects and problems. Students must
be advised and have consent of the instructor and approval
of the dean.
(Credit: Variable)
ARCH 495
Technology as Design
Since the development of cast iron as a viable construction
material in the mid-1800s, one path of architecture has explored
the open-ended possibilities of technology. Integrated
within the culture, this determination to use the technology
of one’s time as the creative generator of a new evolving
architecture becomes the historical precedent of the thesis of
this course.
(3-0-3)
ARCH 497
Special Projects
Independent study of projects and problems. Students must
be advised and have consent of the instructor and approval
of the dean.
(Credit: Variable)
Additional Undergraduate and Graduate Courses
Graduate courses are available under limited conditions to
degree-seeking undergraduate students with the approval of
the course instructor. In general, and only when maximum enrollment
has not been met, undergraduates must have completed
relevant advanced-level undergraduate courses in the subject.
Students should notify their academic advisor when they have
completed a graduate course to ensure the course is recognized
as an architecture elective. See the current IIT Bulletin: Graduate
Programs for full descriptions.
ARCH 500
History of Architectural Ideas I
ARCH 501
History of Architectural Ideas II
ARCH 502
Advanced Topics in History and Theory I
ARCH 503
Advanced Topics in History and Theory II
ARCH 509
Topics in Advanced Technology
ARCH 553
High-Rise Building Technology I
ARCH 554
High-Rise Building Technology II
LA 443
Forests, Preserves, Parks, and Urbanscapes
LA 501
Nature of Ecology
LA 502
Landscape Architectural History: From Antiquity to Olmsted
LA 503
Advanced Contemporary Theory: Case Studies
LA 515
Firms, Parks, Developers
LA 516
Historic Landscape Preservation
LA 545
Studio V: Advanced Landscape Design Investigations
LA 546
Studio VI: Advanced Landscape Design Investigations
187