In the United States, several architecture schools have shown consistency over the years. We have curated a list of the Top 15 Architecture Schools in the US that you should consider if you would like to study in the field of architecture.
15. UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA – BERKELEY
School Overview
Established in 1868, the University of California located in Berkeley is a public research institute and highly admired among schools in the US. It is also the oldest school of the U of C. with around 44,000 students. The culture of the school showcases how crucial collaboration, innovation, and research is in attaining set goals. It boasts of having the fourth-largest academic library in the United States.
Ethos
Entrenched in its belief is a notion to ensure there is a framework for achieving whatever your heart is set upon. With a wide array of options open, the school is focused on making its student leaders in their respective fields, by being a guiding party that influences success. Its instinctive role to be a trustworthy educational platform is engrained in its resolve to offer quality education.
Program features
Some of the courses that make the institution unique and attractive are Social and Cultural Processes in Architecture and Urbanism, Design Theories, Methods, and Practice as well as Structures and Construction. They emphasize its prestigious nature and affordability. To get more information about applying, visit the official site for the institution.
14. VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE AND STATE UNIVERSITY
School Overview
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, simply referred to as Virginia Tech is located in Virginia. The institution was founded in 1872 and has six regional educational facilities. Also, Virginia Tech is ascribed as one of six institutions of senior military colleges in the United States. Its commitment to research, learning, and outreach is what makes it one of the top institutions in the United States.
Ethos
This institution has a principle of community that is based on many affirmations. Knowing that some values don’t embrace inclusion, the institution has been open to being more inclined to embracing inclusion that nurtures growth. They are committed to treating everyone with value, respect, and the right to express opinions freely. A rejection of discrimination based on race, age, skin colour, gender, disability, religion, and sexual orientation among others.
Program features
Its name may be a mouthful, but Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University have so much to offer students who are seeking high-quality education. With the degree in architecture accessible from the College of Architecture and Urban Studies, this diverse program lets students explore various facets of architecture. Courses students are exposed to include; The Art of Building, History of Architecture and Basic Principles of Structures. More here.
13. GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY-MAIN CAMPUS
School Overview
The Georgia Institute of Technology, commonly known as Georgia Tech, is an institution of choice for many students hoping to study Architecture in the United States. Founded in 1885 and situated in Atlanta, this public research school describes itself as a leading research institution. It ensures that students advance through a forward-thinking approach, guided by the aid of science and technology. The institution has a division of six colleges and thirty-one departments.
Ethos
Georgia Tech is known for five main principles namely integrity, community, respect, accountability, and adaptability. The institution prides itself in doing what is right, thereby conducting themselves professionally. They place value on a diversity that treats everyone with dignity and respect.
Program features
A wide range of courses are available at Georgia Tech but one of the most prominent is its architectural program. From workshops to skills acquired in the classroom, the institution offers an array of top-quality learning outcomes. Some of the courses offered include; the history of Architecture, environmental Systems, architecture Design Studio, construction technology, architecture modelling, and media. You can find out more when you visit their website here.
12. CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY
School Overview
Known for its popularity as a global research institution, Carnegie Mellon University is recognized as a topnotch interdisciplinary school. It has programs that cover the spheres of business, engineering, policy, science, art, and humanities among others. Located in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and founded in 1900, this private research institute was known as the Carnegie Technical Schools. Its student count amounts to over fifteen thousand, spread across one hundred and twenty countries.
Ethos
Carnegie Mellon University’s mission is simple to provide an engagement that runs deep in all its architectural disciplines. Its base stems from innovation and creative inquiry; that which guides the principle of inquisitiveness. Here, the discipline is based on the innovation channeled through design, creativity, historical standpoint, social responsibility, bureaucratic know-how, and environmental reconstruction.
Program features
This program includes courses such as robotic affordances, matter matters, furniture, and urban design. There are two baccalaureate degree programs. They are the Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) and aBachelor of Arts in Architecture (B.A.). You can find out more on their website.
11. WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY IN ST LOUIS
School Overview
On their website, Washington University in St. Louis describes themselves as a place where people matter and serious work is done. This gives an inclination that it is steadfast in distributing knowledge to better the world’s living conditions. Founded in 1853 and located in Missouri, this private research institution was named after George Washington, an American political leader and the first president of the United States.
Ethos
Its values are entrenched in leadership, being driven, community-oriented, and personal. There is a demonstration of inclusiveness toward individual and collective success. It is driven by excellence to deliver on the freedom of inquiry through research, teaching, and learning. Its aim seeks to bring success by accomplishing goals through its community.
Program features
The Sam Fox School of Design and Visual Arts has a merger of courses which make it stand out. Some of which are Building Systems, Architectural Design, andEnvironmental Systems. With the details on how to enrol contained in their website, the program is taught by well-known academia, which are well versed in research. Its approach is proactive and made for those whose desire is to improve people’s living conditions.
10. UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
School Overview
Based in Los Angeles, the University of Southern California is a private institution founded in 1880. It is also the oldest privately owned research institute in California. USC as is commonly abbreviated, has departments such as law, engineering, business, and medicine. They have around 30 alumni who have gone on to become billionaires, because of the inventiveness gained as a result of being affiliated to the institution.
Ethos
The main target is to attain academic excellence through teaching and research. This is embedded in the enrichment of the human mind. It places importance on people – both student and faculty members. Quality and sustainability derived from research, and its resultant effect on various aspects of life are its most important principle to uphold. It encourages excellence in its people, providing support to its community.
Program features
Among what makes the program unique are the courses available, including the Fundamentals of Design Communication, Architecture concerning Culture and Community, and World History of Architecture. Students are exposed to a plethora of architectural forms while discovering where they fit. Students can get licensed, among other benefits as seen on the school’s website.
9. UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA
School Overview
The University of Virginia is admired as one of the best architectural schools in the US. It was founded as an educational institution in 1819 and located in Charlottesville, VA. According to its founder, Thomas Jefferson, it is an institution made to improve human knowledge, educate leaders, and cultivate an informed citizenry.
It has an iconic status of distinguished faculties and departments, which have produced leaders in various industries.
Ethos
With many accolades like the fourth-best public National University by the U.S. News & World Report, the foundation of this astounding institution is rooted in academic excellence, and discovering new and better ways to proffer solutions to research challenges. The institution emphasizes being one of the best for students seeking a flexible and affordable option.
Program features
Students here can go after several concentrations in their studies. Pre-professional program and the Design Thinking/ Design Practices concentration are available to them. The degree helps with the integration of methodologies and understanding of courses including; 20th Century History of Ideas, Lessons of the Lawn, and World Contemporary Architecture. Find out application procedures here.
8. COOPER UNION FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF SCIENCE AND ART
School Overview
Simply referred to as Cooper Union, it was established in 1859. Located in downtown Manhattan, its history is predicated on being one of the oldest and most recognized higher institutions in the US. The school has a 150-year experience in proffering solutions to architectural challenges, and churning out professionals within that timeframe. Attention is given to programs in art, engineering, and of course, architecture.
Ethos
The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art stands for its exceptional academic programs in architecture, art, and engineering. The institution ensures students are well prepared for the challenges that come with the task of adding value to its community and beyond. It is remarkably poised to raise generations of students to produce talents that can make a difference through exceptional academic and vibrant setting.
Program features
Being a 5-year program, it focuses on courses such as Structures, History of Architecture, and Environmental Technologies. Accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), students are presented with cultural and technical approaches to enhance research and skill. A breakdown of these and more are on their website
7. THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN
School Overview
The University of Texas—Austin was founded in 1883. Located in Austin, this public institution is one of the largest schools in the US. Its biggest college out of the total of 18 is the College of Liberal Arts. In 1910, it started offering degrees professionally and its architectural program ranks among the best in the nation. Students can be a part of its over 1,300 clubs and organizations which helps in their development process.
Ethos
The core values of this institution range from learning, discovery, freedom, leadership, individual opportunity, and responsibility. Excellence is the watchword, therefore it merges research and creative activities to affect lives positively. It focuses on society’s interrelated areas of education, research, and service. It seeks to expand knowledge, seeks truth, and serve as a catalyst for positive change in Texas and beyond.
Program features
Courses are offered in a five-year professional Bachelor of Architecture degree and they include Architecture and Society, World Architecture: Origins to 1750, and Principles of Physical Planning. Students understand the elements of architecture from the basic to the technological standpoint. It is ranked as one of the best platforms for architectural education and more info is on their website.
6. CALIFORNIA POLYTECHNIC STATE UNIVERSITY-SAN LUIS OBISPO
School Overview
Founded in the city of San Luis Obispo, California Polytechnic State University is a public higher institution considered one of the US’s top-ranked schools. It is documented as being one of the best regional universities, public schools, and colleges for veterans at the same time. Established in 1901, it has six colleges of 65 bachelor’s and 39 master’s degrees courses.
Ethos
Its foundation is based on rigorous research and inspired design, entrenched in an environment that allows everyone to thrive. Embedded in one of the nation’s most respected research universities, its multidisciplinary nature helps the quest to challenge the complexities of problems waiting to be solved.
Program features
With offerings such as Design and Visual Communication, Architectural Technology Fundamentals, and Issues in Contemporary Professional Practice, the program offers top destinations for internships in different parts of the world. Students acquire an experience that helps develop their foundational skills. Find out more about enrolment at this institution.
5. UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME
School Overview
Founded in 1842 by Rev. Edward F. Sorin, the University of Notre Dame is self-characterized as a place where vision is born and defined by its Catholic character. Located in South Bend, Indiana, it is one of America’s leading undergraduate teaching institutions. Built on traditional values that are flexible to change, the institution has an exclusive essence aligned between its spiritual stance and systematic findings; it stands for value and fact.
Ethos
Values are built on the ability of students to come and learn how to survive in the real world. The experiences taught often leads to a life that oozes confidence and technological know-how. It is dedicated to the pursuit and sharing of truth for the sake of it. With the institution identifying with its Catholic roots, its significance is nurtured within this precinct. The school holds on to the pride of teaching and learning which builds the development of its students.
Program features
The focus is on student’s ability to develop new buildings that are sustainable especially with new technical trends at the fore-front of various discourse. Courses focus on environment and economic sustainability in the template of furniture design, architectural practice, and enterprise as well as preservation and restoration. Check out their website for admission guidelines.
4. SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
School Overview
Ranked as one of the top higher institutions of learning, Syracuse University was founded in 1870. It is a private institution that has a total of over 15,000 undergraduate students. Located in New York, on a campus size land of 721 acres, it has a high quality of education and is relatively affordable. It identifies itself as nonsectarian meaning it has no religious ties but has a standing relationship with the United Methodist Church.
Ethos
Participation, creation, innovation, collaboration, and transformation. Those are the ways of life at Syracuse University. Known for its Orange color and community, students are welcomed with the vigor to be prepared for an impactful lifetime, both as a person and a community.
Program features
Architectural Design and Modern Architecture: The International Style to Present, are two of the most dominant courses that shape the future for aspiring students at this institution. Rich in its design history, the program is very adaptable in different scenarios according to everyone’s desire and passion. Visit the website for more info.
3. RICE UNIVERSITY
School Overview
William Marsh Rice University is otherwise known as “Rice University”, is one leading institution that is at the top echelon of schools in the US. Located in Houston and sitting on a 300-acre space, it was founded in 1912. It is very specific on its educational qualities so much that it shares a 6:1 student-faculty ratio. It is an understatement when described as a leading research university; it has a deep culture in student life and is located in one of the most populated cities in the country.
Ethos
Being the smallest professional degree program as a top research university in the US, Rice University is keen on focusing on the individual aptitude to garner results. Priding itself with its minimal ration, it inspires a cohesive environment. Their focal capacity tends to rely on caring for a solid acumen of respected students that collaborate to become a force to be reckoned with. That is within principal societal structures, their immediate communities and the world at large.
Program features
The curriculum solves architectural problems through research and collaborations with departments like environmental studies, business, and engineering. It is interdisciplinary and allows internship from the very best firms to help give a head-start for a career that blossoms. The program ensures students get unmatched assistance and responsiveness. Check out their website for every piece of the puzzle.
2. RHODE ISLAND SCHOOL OF DESIGN
School Overview
Founded in 1877, the Rhode Island School of Design is located in Providence, Rhode Island. It is a school dedicated to design and private art. It offers programs in both bachelor and master forms in 21 departments. As a nonprofit college, the number of students here is around 2,500 students. The quality of its program is one of the characters that makes it stand out, alongside its teaching facilities and staff members.
Ethos
Value is placed on procedures of designers as the main carriers of engagement with the wider world at Rhode Island School of Design. Focus is placed on impacting the world with solutions that are aligned through many elements including design, functionality, and use. This in turn translates to an overall ability to induce every aspect of the culture into resources that benefit society.
Program features
The importance of this degree is focused on its hands-on approach in the design studio, which helps students become more tech-savvy in today’s competitive art world. Skill and design in architecture are concentrated on while exploring the technical aspects of architectural development. Course work includes but not limited to Spatial Dynamics, Wood Structures, and The Making of Design Principles. You can look them up here.
1. CORNELL UNIVERSITY
School Overview
As a privately owned research institution, Cornell University is located in Ithaca, New York. It partners with the State University of New York on contributing to a different number of fields of knowledge. Its program in architecture happens to be the oldest in the nation. After completing their degrees here, students become profound experts in their profession because of how adequate the institution pays attention to learning and research.
Ethos
Based on the three profound elements of learning, discovery, and engagement, its mission aims to discover, preserve and disseminate knowledge that helps the global citizens of the world. This is in turn transferred to the next generation, with the culture of improving and enhancing lives across the board. It aims to be a leading research institute, expressively discovering boundaries that have not been exploited.
Program features
Students learn among many other things, Architecture, Culture, and Society, with the Visual Representation in Architecture, and Architectural Science and Technology. The unique nature of this program offers a focused and exclusive deep-dive into every discipline as though, it was the only one available in the institution. It immerses students in design culture. Learn the way of life at Cornell University.
