Architecture in Mexico
| Location: | Oaxaca, Mexico |
|---|---|
| Term: | Spring Semester |
| Eligible Students: | U of M Students, Non U of M Students |
| Open to: | Juniors, Seniors |
| Housing: | Hotel |
| Language Prerequisite: | No language prerequisite |
| Credit Type: | Resident Credit |
| Program Sponsor: | CDes |
Oaxaca was selected for our study abroad program because of the high quality architectural context that it provides for our studies.
Oaxaca is located in the confluence of three mountain valleys 250 miles south of Mexico City. The city dates from 1529 when the Spanish first drew the outline of Oaxaca's central square ground. Today, Oaxaca is well known as a city that has preserved its historic architectural heritage and as a city of the arts. The buildings of the city's center date from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Many of Mexico's most important museums are located in Oaxaca, and the city has been home to artists including Rufino Tamayo, Rodolfo Morales, and Francesco Toledo.
Oaxaca's Zocalo, the central square, is among the finest public spaces in the world; the courtyard buildings that form the majority of the structures of the city provide a rich learning resource for our studies; the city is powerfully demarcated by the mountains that surround it; and it is a city that is easily and rewardingly negotiated by pedestrians.
The city is surrounded by villages that each specialize in a specific craft. Within an easy day trip of the city are villages that weave rugs, make pottery, carve wooden animals and make paper. Mounte Alban, Yagoul and Mitla are ruins of pre-Hispanic civilizations that are located within an hour of the city. Beaches are 6 1/2 hours away by bus (cheap fares) or 45 minutes by air (expensive).
The climate is mild year around with temperatures of 75 degrees during the day and 60 degrees in the evening. January is clear while February, March and April have a scattering of cloudy days.
Contact Professor Lance LaVine or visit the programs website for more information.
Curriculum
Choose from courses including Architecture Design Studio, Topics in Architectural Theory and Spanish. Check with CDes for exact course listings. Graduate credit information available upon request. Instruction in English by University of Minnesota faculty. Typical credits: 15 per semester.
Eligibility & Application
Open to undergraduate juniors and seniors who are pursuing a BS, BA, or BDA in architecture or a degree in interior design. Applications reviewed until mid-October deadline.
Estimated Cost
The program fee includes tuition and registration fees, orientation, and international health insurance. It may also include airfare, housing, excursions, and some or all meals. Check with the faculty leader for the program fee and what is included.
More Information
Contact Professor Lance LaVine or visit the program's website for more information.
