UTA's Master of Architecture Program Earns Full 8-Year NAAB Reaccreditation
The University of Texas at Arlington's Master of Architecture (M.ARCH) program has been granted the full eight-year term of continuing accreditation by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), underscoring its standing among the nation's leading architectural education programs.
Following a comprehensive site visit and evaluation, the NAAB Board of Directors voted at its April 17–18, 2026, meeting to grant the M.ARCH program full reaccreditation. The decision confirms that the program has demonstrated continued excellence and full compliance with the NAAB 2020 Conditions for Accreditation. The accreditation term is effective January 1, 2025, with the next review visit scheduled for 2033.
In an official letter addressed to Dr. Tamara Brown, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at UT Arlington, the NAAB Board of Directors stated that the program provided sufficient information and evidence to meet all requirements for continuing accreditation. The review concluded that the program maintains a robust curriculum, strong institutional support, and a commitment to ongoing assessment and improvement, ensuring that students achieve the professional success required for architectural practice.
"This achievement reflects the strength of our academic framework and the dedication of our community," said Dr. Ming-Han Li, Dean of the College of Architecture, Planning and Public Affairs (CAPPA). "Receiving full eight-year accreditation affirms that our Master of Architecture program not only meets but exceeds national standards. We are deeply committed to preparing our students to lead with innovation, responsibility, and excellence in the built environment."
Reaccreditation by NAAB represents a critical milestone in architectural education, signaling that a program consistently meets rigorous national standards. It also ensures that graduates are well-prepared for licensure and professional practice, supported by a curriculum that integrates design, technical knowledge, and critical thinking.
Dr. David Franco, Director of the School of Architecture, emphasized the collaborative effort behind the successful review.
"Thank you to our faculty, staff, students, and extended parties for the tremendous amount of work, care, and commitment that went into this process," Franco said. "Accreditation outcomes are always collective achievements, and this result reflects the dedication of our entire community."
The NAAB review process evaluates multiple aspects of an academic program, including student performance, faculty qualifications, facilities, and resources. It also assesses how programs integrate evolving professional standards and engage in strategic planning to maintain quality and relevance.
For UT Arlington, the eight-year reaccreditation reinforces the M. ARCH program's mission to equip students with creativity, innovation, critical thinking, and a commitment to social justice. As the program looks ahead to its next accreditation cycle in 2033, faculty and leadership remain focused on continuing to innovate and uphold excellence in architectural education.