Architecture has been an important part of the curriculum of the University of New Mexico for over a half century. The growth and prominence of the Architecture Program has been directly linked to the development of Albuquerque and the sunbelt. Moreover, the School has educated many of the nation's distinguished practitioners, designers, and faculty in architecture.

The School of Architecture and Planning, on the University’s main campus, is located on historic Route 66, an enduring laboratory of the automobile era. The area is rich in ancient and more recent history, yet it is progressive in its critical discourse on the future of architecture and urbanism. The unique topographic features, cultural traditions, and natural conditions exert strong influences on the work of architects who practice in New Mexico and the students who study at UNM. Within this stimulating context, the School is deeply involved in the challenges and unanswered questions of a bustling, twenty-first century sunbelt city. Through practice, research, and teaching, our faculty, students, and alumni lead the discussion on the very nature of architecture in such a powerful yet environmentally sensitive region. New Mexico is indeed the “Land of Enchantment,” and is clearly an inspiration for many of our students.

The faculty and student body includes prominent scholars, designers, and practitioners who will lead the discipline of architecture well into the new millennium. The school nurtures and celebrates experimentation, criticism, creative thinking, and integrity. Our curriculum emphasizes the universal values of architecture while highlighting specific scholarly perspectives. Faculty members are nationally recognized and respected for their work in several areas: architectural design, professional practice, community design and planning, architecture and children, the history, theory, and criticism of regional issues, visual studies, and sustainability. Excellent faculty and compelling location are the primary attributes that draw students to our Architecture Program.

Geraldine Isais Forbes, Director Architecture Program