Program overview
Architectural History and Theory is a research direction under architecture. Simply put, it studies why buildings look the way they do and what they mean. You'll not only study core courses like Chinese and foreign architectural history, architectural theory, and heritage conservation, but also engage in hands-on activities such as architectural surveying, historical environment analysis, and architectural archaeology. A unique advantage of this program in Chinese universities is that you have a wealth of living textbooks around you—from the Forbidden City and Suzhou gardens to modern lane houses, all are ready-made case studies. Many schools organize field trips and even involve students in ancient building restoration projects. This program is ideal for those with a strong interest in history, culture, and art, who enjoy paying attention to details, hands-on surveying, and don't mind writing lengthy analytical reports.