Dr. Michael Hricak

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Michael Hricak is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Southern California's School of Architecture, bringing over four decades of experience in architectural design and education. He graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from USC in 1974 and earned his Master of Architecture from Harvard University's Graduate School of Design in 1978. Hricak has a distinguished career that includes serving as Senior Project Designer at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and founding his own architectural firm. Throughout his career, he has been involved in a diverse range of projects, including historic restoration, adaptive reuse, and the design of commercial and residential spaces. An advocate for design education, he has been teaching since 1982 and currently lectures on Professional Practice, where he addresses topics such as environmental concerns, construction law, and project delivery processes. Hricak is also actively involved in the architectural community, having held various leadership roles within professional organizations like AIA, and he contributes to editorial work in architectural education. His practice has garnered numerous local, state, and national awards, highlighting the impact of his work in shaping livable communities.

Research Interests

Experience

Adjunct Professor

1982-01-01 — Present

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Involved in teaching design history, theory, and professional practice courses.

Senior Project Designer

— Present

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill • Los Angeles, CA

Designed corporate and commercial retail facilities.

Founder

— Present

Hricak Architecture • Los Angeles, CA

Founded own architectural firm focusing on diverse projects including historic restorations.

Requirements for University of Southern California

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Listening
Required:20
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
GRE General
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Math, or Hard Science
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Official transcripts
  • Personal Statement
  • Resume/CV
  • Letters of Recommendation (not required for MS CS, but allowed)
Specialization Notes

GRE is NOT required for Master's applicants for 2025-2026.