To begin with, it’s worth noting that there are two ways to get an architectural degree in America:
Bachelor of Science in Architecture (B.S.) and Master of Architecture (M.Arch.).
In total it will take 6 years – 4 years for the first stage and 2 for the second. Students notice an easier and more flexible learning curve with this option. Students get a ready-made specialty already after the first four years at university (i.e. it is possible to start working). The only disadvantage is the apparent lack of fundamental knowledge in architecture.
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.)
It takes five years to study. The most important advantage of the direction – foreign exchange programs. Otherwise, students have to immerse themselves in training much more seriously, while at the exit to find a job is not so easy because of the exaggerated requirements of graduates.
Which option is right for you?
If you’re going into architecture to work with interior design and landscape design, the first option would be the best fit. In general, undergraduate studies are more flexible. After completing two courses you can transfer to another program if you want (you will only need high grades).
It is very important when choosing a university to make sure that the university has a license of the National Architectural Accreditation Bureau. If it does not, you will not be able to take the internship that is required after university and then take the Architect’s License Exam.
What follows an architecture degree at a university in America?
Postgraduate education is a separate item – in order to confirm their qualifications specialists need to undergo 3-4 years internship in the equivalent of 700 practical units (each lasting 8 hours). At the same time it is possible to go for an internship only in that company, which has a license for it.
If students decide to tie their lives to science, after graduation their career path will continue in the program M.Arch II, which runs for 2 years and emphasizes the study of theory. An alternative is a PhD in architectural history, computer science, or architecture itself.
The best architectural universities in the U.S. – top five outstanding institutions
Cornell University (Ithaca, New York)
Cornell’s architecture program has remained at the top of the list for many years in a row. It is one of the oldest in the country, which means it has the broadest network of research papers enjoyed by graduates and students.
The first three years study the general architecture program, and the remaining years concentrate on one discipline: culture and society, architectural analysis, visual representation, etc.
Rice University (Houston, Texas)
The university’s biggest advantage is its student-to-faculty ratio (1:5). That is, everyone is guaranteed personal attention while studying. Rice’s program includes four years of undergraduate study, during which you can take a wide variety of courses and two years of graduate study.
After graduation, Rice helps with job placement at one of the state’s firms, where students work as paid interns and make professional connections. The average cost is $20,000 a year (after receiving the scholarship).
California State Polytechnic University (San Luis Obispo, California)
Approximately one in five architects in California has graduated from this university. San Luis Obispo has been known for its approach to connection building since its undergraduate days – the curriculum involves joint lectures by students from different courses.
Syracuse University (Syracuse, NY)
Syracuse was once the first in the country to offer a bachelor’s degree program in architecture. It has remained at the top of all rankings ever since. Syracuse’s true brand has been its faculty. The university prides itself on its rigorous admissions system and emphasizes one-semester opportunities to study in London or Florence. The average cost is $35,000 a year (after receiving a scholarship).
Cooper Union (New York, NY).
The university’s founder, Peter Cooper, dreamed in 1859 of making education quality and free for gifted but poor youth. Even today, Cooper Union practices grants and special programs for those who cannot afford to pay tuition.
As part of its training, Cooper Union offers a fairly rigorous and in-depth architecture course that combines theory, cultural awareness and acceptance of technological advances. The average cost is $15,000 a year (after receiving a scholarship).