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Free Courses in Architecture with Certificates
Architecture is a wonderful complex of art, technique, science that connects the imagination and ingenuity of the architect, the requirements of functionality and the technical possibilities of creating a worthy and beautiful building. For those who are aspiring to become an architect, the free online courses can be very beneficial. In this article, let us explore some of the best free courses in architecture.
Why Choose Free Architecture Courses?
Free architecture courses are great for improving skills as they provide information on facets of architecture including the architectural concepts, construction methodologies, environmental conservation measures and the dimensions of the information technology.
Let’s explore some of the best architecture courses.
1. Architectural Imagination – Harvard University (edX)
Presented by Harvard University through edX, this course is a beginner level study of architecture with examples drawn from both the past and the present. It entails architectural drawing, architectural design and the theoretical as well as cultural aspects of architecture. You will learn basic principles of architecture, how to read, analyse and understand different forms of architectural representation, the social and historical contexts of architecture and architectural imagination and its relation to the environment.
Duration: 10 weeks (3-5 hours per week)
Certificate: Available for a fee; however, the course content is free to access.
Architectural Imagination
2. Introduction to Sustainable Development in Architecture – ETH Zurich (Coursera)
Here is the information concerning one of the courses on Sustainable architecture and urban planning, offered by ETH Zurich University on Coursera. It provides significant importance in the areas of sustainability of structures and the infrastructure of the buildings. You will learn key concepts of sustainability in architecture, the environmental impact of buildings, sustainable materials and construction techniques and the role of architects in promoting sustainable development.
Certificate: Free with financial aid application; otherwise, available for a fee.
Link: Introduction to Sustainable Development in Architecture – ETH Zurich (Coursera)
3. Designing Resilient Schools: A Case for Recovery Architecture – Open Online Academy
Course Overview: Specifically this course aims at enabling designers to come up with learning environments that are effective during disaster instances. It provides information about the topic of recovery architecture in school, for the purpose of underlining the principles of efficient and safe schooling buildings. You will learn the principles of resilient and recovery architecture, how to design schools that can withstand natural disasters, the role of architecture in post-disaster recovery and case studies on resilient school designs.
Duration: 4 weeks
Certificate: Free upon completion of the course.
Link: Designing Resilient Schools – Open Online Academy
4. Introduction to the Architectural Profession – Delft University of Technology (edX)
This is a course from Delft University of Technology via edX that aims at introducing the students to the profession of architecture together with the duties, ethic issues and dilemmas that architects encounter in their line of duty. You will learn the roles and responsibilities of architects, ethical challenges in architecture, the professional practice of architecture and overview of architectural design processes.
Certificate: Available for a fee; the course content is free to access.
Link: Introduction to the Architectural Profession
5. The Architectural Sketchbook – Udemy
This course offered on udemy is ideal for anyone who would like to sharpen his or her architectural sketching skills. It also covers different approaches to sketching so that the means of visually conveying architectural concepts using hand drawings is well understood. You will learn fundamental sketching techniques, how to develop a personal sketching style, the role of sketching in the design process and practical exercises to improve your sketching skills.
Duration: Self-paced
6. Modern Housing Design – Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT OpenCourseWare)
This is course is from Massachusetts Institute of Technology through its Open Course Ware programme and focus on the principles of modern house design. It looks into past and current housing practices, architecture aesthetics, the social context and interaction between housing design and planning. You will learn the key principles of modern housing design, historical context of housing design, case studies of significant housing projects and the relationship between architecture and urbanism.
Duration: Self-paced (open course format)
Certificate: Not available, but course materials can be freely accessed.
7. Building Materials and Construction Techniques – NPTEL (Swayam)
Swayam course of NPTEL that delivers this course is regarding the basic building materials and construction. It is suitable for anyone who wants to know more about the application of architecture. You will learn the overview of various building materials, modern and traditional construction techniques, material properties and their applications in architecture and case studies and practical examples.
Duration: 12 weeks
Certificate: Free with a certificate available upon passing the final exam.