Top Architecture Colleges
As an architecture major, you’ll learn how to imagine, design and create buildings from the ground up, from houses to skyscrapers. With the technical skills you will pick up in such classes as architectural engineering and construction, you will be well prepared to step into the workforce and be an essential part of the team at any firm.
What do you need to make it in Architecture School?
Future architects need to be creative thinkers and problem solvers who can easily work as a part of a team to successfully design buildings. As an architectural undergraduate you will need to think about how design affects society, the latest design trends, historical architecture and design as well as how to preserve and restore old buildings. Architects also gain valuable skills from calculus and math classes, they need to be able to draw up designs and build models and also research and write papers.
Your Architecture College Checklist
- Is the program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board?
- Are your professors practicing architects? What kinds of buildings have they designed?
- Does the department stress the studio-art side or engineering side of architecture?
- What kind of work do current students do? Ask to see examples of student work.
- How many students are in each class?
- Will you be able to use the design studio at all times?
- What role do computers/technology play in studio courses?
The Top Architecture Colleges & Universities
Architecture is a highly competitive field, and finding the right college and program is often key to landing a good job. Schools that are held in particularly high regard by professionals, employers and students include: Cooper Union, Syracuse University, Rhode Island School of Design, and Temple University, among others. For a complete list of College Transitions' Top Architecture Colleges and Universities, click here.
*College lists are compiled on the basis of counselor interviews, guide books, exhaustive internet searches (of college and departmental websites), and data provided by The College Board and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).