64 credits towards the Certificate in Classical Architecture | 60 AIA CES Learning Units|Elective and 4 AIA CES Learning Units|HSW
Among the ICAA’s most impactful and enduring education models is its Intensive Program in Classical Architecture – an eight-day course of study that introduces participants to the ICAA’s core curriculum through coursework in the classical orders, composition, proportion, drafting, observational drawing, and the literature of classical architecture. Participants learn how to draw, render, and compose with the classical language to form an understanding of the basic theoretical tenets on which the classical tradition is founded. Instruction is provided by professionals and educators active in the field of classical design. Classroom hours are balanced between studio work, lectures, and guided tours and visits. The week culminates in a studio project in which students use the classical canon in the design of a small building. Students are guided through a design process rooted in the Beaux-Arts system in which an initial parti is developed during an esquisse and a charrette into a finished design proposal. The program concludes with a review by an esteemed panel of architects.The Intensive program also satisfies the core course requirements for the ICAA’s Certificate in Classical Architecture.Please note that in addition to the programming offered January 10 - 17, there will be an optional Hand Drafting session held on Friday, January 9. This session is for those participants who have limited hand drafting experience, or who would like a refresher on hand drafting skills prior to the main program. If you are interested in attending this session, please email [email protected] when you sign up for the Intensive program.
The program schedule will be available closer to January 2026. As a reference for what to expect, you can view the schedule from the 2025 program here; please note that the Intensive schedule changes every year and therefore the instructors, topics, and time allotted for each content area are subject to change for 2025.
Intensive in Classical Architecture: Proportion (4 AIA CES Learning Units|HSW): As part of the Intensive program, participants will study the theory and practice of proportion, as well as the history of classical architecture. Proportion in the classical arts refers to the use of number and geometry as design tools. The theory of proportion content of the course provides an overview of the concept and application of proportion in traditional architecture. The subject is approached from a Pythagorean and Platonic direction, including: an introduction to ancient numerical philosophy; an explanation of the concept of symbolic or qualitative number; the relation of number to beauty; the derivation of the ancient musical octave; the Golden Section, its mathematics, geometry, and particularly its role as geometrical "logos"; and the connection of these ideas to the numerical-geometrical canons of classical architecture. Historical methods of applying proportion to architectural composition, including geometrical construction, addition of arithmetical units and the use of harmonic ratios, are illustrated and demonstrated to create archetypal buildings.
This learning program is registered with AIA CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product.
AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.
Click to view examples of participant work from past Intensive programs.
The ICAA offers The Suzanne Tucker Design Scholarship in Interior Architecture or Design, The William H. Harrison Scholarship, The Hampton University Scholarship, and other scholarships for students, emerging professionals, and professionals for the Intensive in Classical Architecture to offset tuition costs plus assistance to help with travel/housing costs. Each scholarship is merit-based and is assessed on a case-by case-basis.
The scholarship application deadline for the 2026 New York Intensive in Classical Architecture is Monday, October 27, 2025. Please see the application form for the list of required application materials and more information.
Please email [email protected] or call 212-730-9646 x112 with questions about scholarship applications.
We accept a maximum of 20 students.
Yes, a materials list will be provided a month in advance of the program.
There will be very little time to explore New York City while the Intensive is in session. If you would like to explore New York City, it might be advisable to arrive a day or two prior to the start of the program or stay on after the program ends.
The ICAA has a Classroom Code of Conduct in place for all of our educational programs, which can be found by clicking here. Participants in all of our classes (both online and in-person) are expected to follow this code.
No. Programs are designed to introduce a broad range of skills and experiences which is only possible through full participation.
The ICAA welcomes students and professionals from across the world, and international scholarship applications are encouraged. In advance of applying, please note that the ICAA cannot provide any paperwork or assistance with visa applications.
Participants are responsible for arranging their own accommodations during the program. If you would like recommendations on nearby hotels, please contact us at [email protected].
You may refer to the ICAA's cancellation policy by clicking [here].