Lawrence Tech, GRCC Coordinate Architectural Programs
Lawrence Technological University and Grand Rapids Community College have signed an agreement that allows GRCC students to transfer credits and accelerate their progress toward a bachelor's degree in architecture at Lawrence Tech.
Under the articulation agreement, students can transfer up to 70 credit hours from GRCC's new architectural design associate's degree program to Lawrence Tech. In addition, Lawrence Tech faculty will teach the sophomore Integrated Design Studio courses at the community college's campus in Grand Rapids. Students in those courses will be co-enrolled in both institutions.
"This new program expands opportunities for students in western Michigan who would like to become architects," said Glen LeRoy, dean of the College of Architecture and Design at Lawrence Tech.
With the studio courses and transferrable coursework, GRCC students can earn a bachelor's degree by taking an additional 50 credit hours at Lawrence Tech. A student completing both the Integrated Design Studio course and the architectural design associate's degree can then transfer to "junior" status in the Bachelor of Science degree program in architecture at Lawrence Tech.
"It's our vision, as a college of distinction to inspire students to meet the needs of our communities and world," said GRCC President Steven Ender. "This partnership is another proven success story laying the foundation toward a new career."
Lawrence Tech's College of Architecture and Design is the largest school of architecture in Michigan and among the largest programs in the country. The college has agreements with universities in China and South Korea, and numerous study abroad programs allow students to broaden their world view.
"The world of architecture education is changing as the profession becomes more global. We expect our students to achieve a broad understanding of the world. Students participating in this agreement can choose to study in Grand Rapids, Southfield, at our Detroit Studio and abroad -- all in a coordinated curriculum," LeRoy said.
Some of Lawrence Tech's architecture courses are also offered online, as well as an online master's degree in architecture.
Grand Rapids Community College, established in 1914, offers opportunities for nearly 30,000 students annually in degree courses, certification and training programs, workshops and personal enrichment classes. GRCC holds classes on the downtown Grand Rapids campus as well as several additional locations throughout Kent and Ottawa counties.
Lawrence Technological University, ltu.edu, offers more than 100 undergraduate, master's and doctoral degree programs in the Colleges of Architecture and Design, Arts and Sciences, Engineering and Management. Founded in 1932, the 4,500-student, private university pioneered evening classes and today has a growing number of weekend and online programs. Lawrence Tech's 102-acre campus is in Southfield, and programs are also offered in Detroit, Lansing, Petoskey and Traverse City. Lawrence Tech also offers programs with partner universities in Canada, Mexico, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
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