The first edition of the First-Level University Master's Degree in Architecture and Artificial Intelligence (AI.AR) will begin in November. It is the first Italian-language program dedicated to integrating generative artificial intelligence into architectural design processes.
First-Level University Master's Programme in Architecture and Artificial Intelligence (AI.AR)
Integrating AI into Architectural Design
The master's program aims to train professionals capable of applying AI to the conceptualization, design, representation, and communication of architectural projects, combining an understanding of how AI tools work with their practical integration into professional workflows while promoting hybrid, documented, and replicable workflows in which design expertise and artificial intelligence effectively work together.
The curriculum starts with the fundamentals of artificial intelligence models and progresses to advanced applications, including geometric image control, spatial reconstruction, dynamic media, and AI-assisted document querying. No programming skills are required, as the program primarily relies on no-code and low-code tools, with a strong focus on practical application.
Programme Structure
The Master's Programme consists of 1,500 hours of study, corresponding to 60 ECTS credits, and is organised into progressive areas:
- Fundamentals of Generative AI;
- Image Generation;
- AI-Generated Content for Design;
- Dynamic Media and 3D Modelling;
- Heritage and Archives;
- Intelligent Documentation with LLMs and RAG Systems.
The programme is completed by an intensive workshop, a professional internship and a final thesis.
Teaching is predominantly practice-based and revolves around assignments, hands-on exercises and real projects brought by participants. Alongside the technical training, the programme offers a critical perspective on the relationship between architecture and artificial intelligence through seminars on the philosophy of technology, architectural criticism, the history of representation, ethics and copyright.
Duration and Organisation
The Master's Programme lasts 15 months: 12 months of teaching activities, including lectures, laboratories and an intensive workshop, with a professional internship during the second part of the programme, followed by 3 months dedicated to the final thesis.
The timetable is designed to accommodate working professionals, with classes held one weekday per week and one Saturday morning per month. The programme is scheduled to begin in November 2026.
Schedule and Registration
Registration for the Master's program is open until September 26, 2026. Classes will begin in November 2026 and conclude in July 2027. The program will then conclude with the writing and defense of the final thesis.
Registration procedures are outlined at the following link.
Who Should Apply
The programme is intended for architects, engineers and designers; professionals working in architectural practices and construction companies; public administration officials interested in document automation and AI-assisted regulatory consultation; professionals working in archives and heritage institutions; recent graduates; and researchers.
Applicants must hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree. No prior knowledge of artificial intelligence is required.
Attendance Options and Tuition Fees
Two attendance options are available:
- On-campus: €6,000, plus a €500 enrolment fee.
- Live online: €3,000, plus a €500 enrolment fee.
Both formats offer the same curriculum, faculty and academic qualification. The only difference concerns access to university facilities and on-campus activities.
Subscriptions to AI services used during the programme are not included in the tuition fees and are the responsibility of participants (estimated total cost: €100–300).
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Master's Programme will be prepared for a range of professional roles, including:
- AI-Augmented Designer, integrating generative AI systems into concept development, architectural design and representation workflows.
- Visual AI Specialist (AEC), producing AI-generated images and videos for project communication and design competitions.
- Digital Heritage Curator, specialising in image upscaling, digital restoration and archive metadata management.
- RAG Document Engineer, developing LLM-based assistants for technical documentation and regulatory consultation.
- 3D AI Generalist, focusing on AI-assisted 3D modelling and spatial reconstruction for prototyping.
Programme Contact
For further information about the Master's Programme, please contact:
aiar-dabc@polimi.it
Tommaso Lolli
tommaso.lolli@polimi.it
Marco Seccaroni
marco.seccaroni@polimi.it