The core curriculum is divided into two levels. In level I, the first schoolyear, the emphasis is on giving students a basic knowledge of architects' working methods, fields of practice, and areas of expertise. An introduction to spatial design and design theory and to studies of the built environment are the two major elements. I also includes subjects such as history of architecture and building construction. In level II, comprising the second and third years of study, students apply the methods of professional practice at the same time they study to expand their knowledge in the field of architecture.
Studies focus on two themes each semester for three semesters.
The last semester of the core curriculum is devoted to a survey of the literature of architectural theory, with time for students to reflect and write papers, and for independent in-depth exploration of the application of those theories. Level III of the curriculum includes a fourth year of elective studies followed by a semester-long independent thesis project. Each department in the school offers a program that combines coursework with a design studio. Each semester students choose one such program in addition to a single completely separate short course. During level III, students may also choose to study abroad at schools of architecture in other countries, just as guest students from foreign countries are integrated into the school at this time.