Business Details
22 Years
experience
Sustainable Architecture Education Online
The San Francisco Institute of Architecture (SFIA) has pioneered sustainable architecture education for over two decades, offering innovative distance learning programs that redefine traditional architectural pedagogy. Founded on principles of ecological awareness and accessibility, our institution provides comprehensive degree programsincluding Green MBA, Master of Architecture, and Ecological Designthat integrate cutting-edge theory with practical application. Our faculty comprises globally recognized experts who bring decades of industry experience to curriculum development, ensuring students gain actionable knowledge in sustainable design, project management, and green building technologies.As the first institution to offer a fully integrated ecological design curriculum, we maintain rigorous academic standards while prioritizing affordability and flexibility for working professionals. Our commitment to quality control, evidenced by systematic teaching methodologies and continuous program refinement, has established SFIA as a leader in architecture education reform. With a focus on real-world problem-solving and ethical practice, we prepare graduates to address contemporary environmental challenges through innovative design solutions that meet evolving industry demands.
Services
Green MBA Program
Master of Architecture Degree
Ecological Design Courses
Project Management Training
Green Building Certificates
Details
- Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of experience in pioneering ecological design education programs
- Our faculty includes globally recognized architects and sustainability experts
- We provide fully accredited, self-paced distance learning programs for working professionals
- Our curriculum integrates practical skills with cutting-edge sustainable design principles
- We maintain partnerships with leading green building organizations for industry-relevant training
What people say
Life-changing education
Expert instructors
Flexible learning format
Practical curriculum
Industry-relevant training
Services
Green MBA Program
Our Green MBA equips professionals with expertise in sustainable business practices and project management. Students learn to integrate ecological principles with corporate strategy through case studies and real-world applications. The program emphasizes leadership skills for green industry innovation while maintaining accreditation standards.
Master of Architecture Degree
This accredited program combines traditional architectural principles with modern sustainability practices. Students develop technical skills in design and construction while exploring innovative ecological solutions. The curriculum prepares graduates for licensure and leadership roles in sustainable architecture.
Ecological Design Courses
Specialized courses focus on environmentally conscious design methodologies and green building technologies. Students examine energy efficiency, material selection, and site analysis techniques. The program emphasizes practical application through project-based learning and industry-standard practices.
Project Management Training
This program develops expertise in managing sustainable construction projects from concept to completion. Students learn quality control systems, budget management, and coordination techniques specific to green building projects. The curriculum addresses industry challenges and best practices.
Green Building Certificates
Certificate programs provide focused training in specific green building disciplines. Students gain specialized knowledge in energy systems, material science, and sustainable practices. These programs meet industry certification requirements and enhance professional credentials.
People
Fred A. Stitt
Director, SFIA
Architect and educator Fred A. Stitt founded SFIA to revolutionize architectural education through ecological principles. His 40-year career combined practice with teaching, emphasizing practical solutions to environmental challenges. Stitt's vision established SFIA's distance learning model and sustainability focus.
Laura Allen
Cofounder, Greywater Action
Sustainable water systems expert Laura Allen contributes to SFIA's ecological design curriculum. Her work focuses on water conservation and greywater reuse strategies for urban environments. Allen's practical approach bridges academic theory with real-world implementation.
Douglas Cardinal
Architect
Renowned architect Douglas Cardinal brings decades of experience in organic design principles to SFIA. His award-winning projects demonstrate sustainable integration with natural environments. Cardinal's teachings emphasize cultural sensitivity and ecological harmony in architectural practice.
Questions
What architecture degrees does SFIA offer?
SFIA offers accredited degrees including Master of Architecture, Bachelor of Science in Architecture, and specialized programs in ecological design through distance learning.
Are SFIA programs accredited?
SFIA maintains educational standards through specialized accreditations for specific programs, with faculty holding professional certifications in architecture and related fields.
How do distance learning courses work?
Our self-paced programs use textbook-based study with email communication. Students complete assignments at their own schedule while meeting academic requirements through structured feedback.
What financial aid options exist?
Financial aid and payment plans are available for all distance learning programs. Contact our office for application instructions and eligibility requirements.
Can I transfer credits?
SFIA evaluates transfer credits for equivalency. Submit documentation for review to determine applicability toward degree requirements through our flexible credit transfer policy.
Reviews (2)
Alan W.
May 10, 2018
Report
I enrolled with the San Francisco Institute of Architecture six years ago, for their Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree. Despite having been practicing as an architect for several years, the whole emphasis of Sustainable Architecture and Construction opened up a whole new world to me. I realised at the outset that their degrees were not accredited, but the knowledge I gained was enormously helpful to me, so much so that after completing my bachelors degree, I went on to do a combined Masters degree in Architecture and Green Building, which I completed at the end of last year. Over the course
Stacey W.
Dec 01, 2015
Report
Sadly, this school is a scam.
Years ago, I enrolled in a distance learning program through SFIA. The entire coursework consisting of emailing the school my responses to a set of questions for each assigned book. Initially the school responded to my emails promptly and in some detail, but over time the response rate and quality declined dramatically, until there simply stopped even acknowledging the receipt of my emails. When I complained and asked for a refund (repeatedly) they ignored all my phone calls and emails. Even if you do somehow manage to get a degree or certificate from SFIA, because
Years ago, I enrolled in a distance learning program through SFIA. The entire coursework consisting of emailing the school my responses to a set of questions for each assigned book. Initially the school responded to my emails promptly and in some detail, but over time the response rate and quality declined dramatically, until there simply stopped even acknowledging the receipt of my emails. When I complained and asked for a refund (repeatedly) they ignored all my phone calls and emails. Even if you do somehow manage to get a degree or certificate from SFIA, because
