Many factors influence the choice of where to study architecture. The decision should not be made lightly. It’s important to create a list of schools that initially interest you and then compare them through research, attending virtual and on-site open days, and speaking to past and current students.
Location
The architecture school you choose will majorly impact your career, so it’s important to research before selecting a program. In addition to understanding the accreditation status, consider classes and institution size, the range of electives offered, and what type of student life is available. You should also consider how far you are willing to commute or move for your education and the kind of architecture firms you would be interested in working for once you graduate. Many schools offer internships for their students, so ask your prospective programs about what opportunities are available. Some colleges specialize in particular styles of architecture. Other schools might have more resources, such as a computer lab with 3D printers or a maker space, and some have more prestigious faculty members. These differences can make one school better than another, but remember that rankings are a bit subjective and shouldn’t be treated as the ultimate truth.
Accreditation
Choosing the most admired architecture schools is a big decision that will impact your long-term life. As such, you must research the schools on offer and make sure they are the right fit for your future goals. While a degree program’s overall accreditation by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) is important, finding out if the school offers specific programs that suit your career goals may be more useful. These can include a master’s of design in landscape architecture, sustainable design, urban planning, or museum studies. It’s also worth looking at league tables to see what universities have been rated for teaching and student satisfaction. These rankings are based on a wide range of data, so be aware that your priorities might differ from what is represented here. In addition, be sure to check out any extracurricular activities the university offers, such as a lecture series or study abroad programs. This will give you a good idea of the school’s learning environment.
Academics
Your chosen architecture degree and career path will significantly impact your life. As you begin the search, identify your passions and what types of opportunities will allow you to grow and thrive. The academic structure of a program can also be an important factor, particularly for graduate students. Consider the enrollment each year and the student-faculty ratio for architecture courses, especially studios. In addition, research the faculty’s backgrounds and professional experiences and how they fit with your interests and goals. Ask for an opportunity to meet the faculty. A bachelor of architecture program is a demanding professional degree that requires a large amount of take-home work and long hours in the architecture studio. Students with other commitments may need help to succeed. Look for programs that provide flexibility, such as allowing you to complete your degree in five years, or that offer additional options, like off-campus study. Also, check out the student body to see if your interests are well represented. This will give you a sense of the diversity in the school and how it will prepare you for your future career.
Student Life
Architecture is a demanding degree, and for the most part, you will be studying it full-time. This means that you will have to be 100% committed to your chosen subject, but as a result, this also gives you a chance to get fully immersed in what you are learning. While many students will be able to manage the heavy load of work, it is important to ensure you have a life outside of your studies. Many schools will have their own sports teams and hobby clubs, especially the bigger universities, so be sure to visit these to see what sort of community you could be joining. Attending the end-of-year shows or visiting the school during an open day is also worth following. This will allow you to meet the tutors and students and get a feel for what it is like to study there. It will also let you see their facilities, such as digital tools and wood shops, which are becoming increasingly popular in architectural schools.
Careers
Architecture is a career that can be highly rewarding, but it can also be a difficult field to find work in. This is because it is very much linked to the construction business. A successful career as an architect depends heavily on a healthy economy. Regardless, an architecture degree can lead to many different career paths for those who wish to pursue it. Some options include surveyor, drafter, and industrial designer. Professional architects must earn a bachelor’s or higher to obtain their license and become fully qualified to practice in the field. In addition, many colleges offer Master’s degrees in architecture, which can be a great option for students who want to continue their education beyond the undergraduate level. This will help them to develop their skills further, as well as gain valuable experience. It’s worth noting that a Master’s in architecture usually requires an additional year of study and can result in higher pay rates than those earned by professionals who hold a bachelor’s degree in architecture.
