BEST OF THE BEST: 9 TOP-RANKED ARCHITECTURE UNIVERSITIES IN USA
- Introduction
- 9 Top Universities to Study Bachelors in Architecture in USA
- 1. University of Nevada, Las Vegas
- 2. Colorado State University, Fort Collins
- 3. Kent State University
- 4. Academy of Art University, San Francisco
- 5. Illinois Institute of Technology
- 6. Portland State University
- 7. Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)
- 8. Kansas State University
- 9. South Dakota State University
- 9 Top Universities to Study Masters in Architecture in the US
- 1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- 2. Harvard University
- 3. University of California, Berkeley (UCB)
- 4. Columbia University
- 5. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- 6. Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)
- 7. University of Pennsylvania
- 8. Cornell University
- 9. University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Introduction
Architecture is a brilliant combination of math, arts, and the science behind constructing structures. As a practice it is buildings structures with precision. As a concept explores all out-of-the-box options we can make it happen, and as a profession, it gives you an edge according to the quality of your education, and how updated you are with technology.
In this article, we will explore the various options in education that you as an aspiring candidate can choose from in the field of Architecture. It not only requires academic scores but some enhanced creativity of your own. USA, one of the most prominent countries to provide education to international students has always had remarkable opportunities that students can use to draw up their own destiny.
Let’s take a look at various universities with undergraduate and post graduate programs offered in the US that may help you shape your career.
9 Top Universities to Study Bachelors in Architecture in USA
A Bachelor's in Architecture comprises of 10 semesters divided into a 5-year course. A degree in Architecture is an adequate mix of theory and practical knowledge, which makes it more worthwhile.
| S.No. | Name of the University | Duration | Apply By | Scholarship approximate amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
University of Nevada, Las Vegas |
4 years |
December 2023 |
2,155,574 INR annually |
|
2 |
Colorado State University, Fort Collins |
4 years |
November 2023 |
2,687,509 INR annually |
|
3 |
Kent State University |
4 years |
January 2024 |
1,771,585 INR annually |
|
4 |
Academy of Art University, San Francisco |
4 years |
Applications open all year (Visit university website for more information) |
2,847,279 INR annually |
|
5 |
Illinois Institute of Technology |
5 years. |
November 2023 |
3,995,878 INR annually |
|
6 |
Portland State University |
4 years |
August 2023 |
2,316,493 INR annually) |
|
7 |
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) |
4 years |
Applications open all year (Visit university website for more information) |
3,291,858 INR annually |
|
8 |
Kansas State University |
5 years |
Applications open all year (Visit university website for more information) |
2,360,253 INR annually) |
|
9 |
South Dakota State University |
4 years |
November 2023 |
926,104 INR annually |
Here are top 9 universities for a bachelor’s degree in architecture in the US:
1. University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Since 1957, and a public university UNLV or University of Nevada, Las Vegas has become from a small college to a full-fledged university and an urban research institution. It is in the top 3% of all the institutions in the US. UNLV has ranked in the top ten spot in the U.S for the nation’s most diverse universities for undergraduates. It is also a minority serving institute with 106 bachelor's degree programs. Out of which 31 alone are Arts, Design and Architecture programs.
The Top course provided is B.sc in Civil Engineering
- Duration: 4 years
- Apply by: December 2023
- Scholarships available (2,155,574 INR annually)
(Read More: Why to Choose civil engineering course abroad?)
2. Colorado State University, Fort Collins
Colorado State University prioritizes not only academics but the student’s experience too with great vision, resource of research and teaching so they engage in a more meaningful way. They provide opportunities that are beyond specific specialization and give a lot of room to work with our diverse skills.
The Top course is B.sc in Landscape Architecture
- Duration: 4 years
- Apply by: November 2023
- Scholarships available (2,687,509 INR annually)
3. Kent State University
Kent State University is the highest- ranking public university in Northern Ohio on the Top Public Schools and Best National Universities list in 2022. It has 187 bachelor's programs available. Out of which 26 belong to Arts, Design and Architecture.
The Top courses are B.sc in Architecture
- Duration: 4 years
- Apply by January 2024
- Scholarships available (1,771,585 INR annually)
And B.A in Architectural Studies
- Duration: 4 years
- Apply by October 2023
- Scholarships available (1,771,585 INR annually)
4. Academy of Art University, San Francisco
Academy of Art University has been home to painters and designers for about 90 years. Some of the brightest minds working in today's creative and innovative businesses teach a practical, no-nonsense curriculum. They will aid your talent development and the acquisition of skills in demand in the creative industry.
The Top courses are Bachelor in Interior Architecture and Design
- Duration: 4 years
- Applications open all year (Visit university website for more information)
- Scholarships available (2,847,279 INR annually)
And Bachelor’s in Architecture
- Duration: 4 years
- Applications open all year (Visit university website for more information)
- Scholarships available (2,847,279 INR annually)
5. Illinois Institute of Technology
The Bachelor's program at the Illinois Institute of Technology Architecture Chicago is designed for undergraduates who desire to leave their impact on the built world. Out of 23 bachelor’s degrees provided 19 are for Arts, Design and Architecture.
The Top course offered is Bachelor of Architecture
- Duration: 5 years
- Apply by November 2023
- Scholarships available (3,995,878 INR annually)
6. Portland State University
Portland State institution is a Public Research Institution. It serves as a testing ground for concepts and initiatives that show the world how things are done differently. For optimal impact, our ground-breaking methodology blends instruction with imaginative problem-solving and campus-wide collaboration. It offers more than 200 degree options.
The Top course is Bachelor’s in Architecture
- Duration: 4 years
- Apply by August 2023
- Scholarships available (2,316,493 INR annually)
7. Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)
Savannah College of Art and Design has a dynamic environment. All year long, applications are accepted at any time. There are no application deadlines; however, students are advised to submit applications at least six months in advance to provide time to prepare for financial aid, and no later than 30 days (about 4 and a half weeks) prior to the start of their first quarter. Typically, admission findings arrive in two to four weeks. With 42 bachelor programs, 38 out of which are for Arts, Design and Architecture.
The Top courses are Bachelor’s in Interior Designing
- Duration: 4 years.
- Applications open all year (Visit university website for more information)
- Scholarships available (3,291,858 INR annually).
And Bachelor in Architecture
- Duration: 4 years.
- Applications open all year (Visit university website for more information)
- Scholarships available (3,291,858 INR annually).
(Read More: Popular awards and scholarships for Indian students to study abroad)
8. Kansas State University
97% job placement rate with a Bachelor’s degree from Kansas University, their official website claims. K-Staters are renowned for setting high goals and then setting even higher goals. This is true of first-year undergraduates, tenured professors, and entire departments. Our experts are sought out to find solutions to problems all around the world, and K-State consistently ranks in the top 10 for several important Princeton Review rankings. They also brag about some of the greatest numbers of national scholars of any public university.
The Top course is Bachelor In Architectural Engineering
- Duration: 5 years
- Applications open all year (Visit university website for more information)
- Scholarships available (2,360,253 INR annually)
9. South Dakota State University
With more than 200 academic programs, South Dakota State University is the biggest and most comprehensive university in the state. Out of 137 bachelor's degree programs 22 are for Arts, Design and Architecture.
The Top course is Bachelor in Landscape Architecture
- Duration: 4 years
- Apply by November 2023
- Scholarships available (926,104 INR annually)
9 Top Universities to Study Masters in Architecture in the US
Whether it’s upgrading your undergraduate education or a Bachelor of Science Student looking to specialize in architecture in their postgraduate, we always look for the best options available. Here we provide a list of the Top 9 Master's Universities that prove to be a great choice in terms of quality education, other facilities and scholarships:
| University Name | Architecture Courses | QS World University Rankings |
|---|---|---|
|
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) |
|
1 |
|
Harvard University |
|
2 |
|
University of California, Berkeley (UCB) |
|
3 |
|
Columbia University |
|
4 |
|
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) |
|
5 |
|
Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) |
|
6 |
|
Cornell University |
|
7 |
|
University of Pennsylvania |
|
8 |
|
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor |
|
9 |
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Massachusetts makes significant contributions to American cultural heritage and is home to many of the most noticeable art museums in the world. Massachusetts has given birth to a few authors, musicians, and artists who drew inspiration from its Native American and Yankee traditions as well as later immigrant groups.
Some Top Courses for Architecture are:
- M.Arch.Architecture
- M.Sc.Architecture Studies - Building Technology
- M.Sc.Architecture Studies - Computation
- M.Sc.Architecture Studies - Design
- M.Sc.Architecture Studies - History, Theory and Criticism of Architecture and Art
- M.Sc.Architecture Studies - Islamic Architecture
- M.Sc.Architecture Studies – Urbanism
- The annual fees are 23.6 Lakhs
About M.Arch.Architecture
- Duration: 3½ years
- Scholarships available (4,728,223 INR annually)
- Apply by Jan 2024
(Know About Career in Naval architecture and marine engineering)
2. Harvard University
Harvard University is a private, Ivy League research university located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The first patron of Harvard College, a Puritan clergyman called John Harvard, was named after him when it was established in 1636 as Harvard College. The mission of Harvard University is to cultivate leaders who make a difference in the world by excellence in teaching, learning, and research. Over 20,000-degree candidates are enrolled at the university, which has campuses in Cambridge and Boston, Massachusetts. These students are undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. More than 360,000 Harvard graduates reside all around the world.
The Annual Fees are 46.9 Lakhs
The Top courses are
- MArchArchitecture
- MArchArchitecture II
- MLALandscape Architecture
- MLALandscape Architecture I AP
- MLALandscape Architecture II
- JD/MUPLaw and Urban Planning
- MArch + MLAUrban Design and Landscape Architecture in Urban Design
- Master Urban Planning
- MUP + MPH Urban Planning and Public Health
- MPP/ MUPUrban Planning and Public Policy
About MLA in Landscape Architecture
- Duration: 3 years
- Scholarships available (4,515,580 INR annually)
- Apply by Jan 2024
3. University of California, Berkeley (UCB)
The institution of California is a public land-grant research institution located in Berkeley, California. founded as an outcome of the State Constitution's ambition for an institution of higher learning that will "contribute even more than California's gold to the glory and happiness of advancing generations."
The Annual fees are 16.9 Lakhs
Courses offered are
- M.Sc.Architecture
- Master City Planning
- Master Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning
- M.Red.Real Estate Development and Design
- M.U.D.Urban Design
About Masters in City Planning
- Duration 2 years
- Scholarships available (1,965,837 INR Annually)
- Apply by Dec 2023
(Read More: All about Architecture courses to study abroad)
4. Columbia University
Columbia University is one of the world's most prominent research institutions, as well as a unique and outstanding learning environment for undergraduate and graduate students in a wide range of scientific and professional subjects. Columbia University in the City of New York is a private, non-profit university in New York, New York. The metropolitan city atmosphere makes it a terrific spot for kids who love having a variety of educational and leisure opportunities.
The Annual Fees are 41.7 Lakhs
Courses Offered are:
- M.Sc. Advanced Architectural Design
- Master Architecture
- M.Sc.Architecture and Urban Design
About M.sc in Urban Design
- Duration: 1 year
- Scholarships available (5,137,909 INR annually)
- Apply by Jan 2024
5. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), is a public, co-ed research university in Los Angeles that is part of the University of California system. California UCLA is a truly worldwide university that offers a world of opportunity. It is diverse, progressive, and located in one of the world's most significant cities. Consistently ranked among the world's top-tier colleges, and backed by substantial resources, a famous reputation, and — most importantly — a strong desire to make a genuine impact in the world, the results are evident.
The annual fees are 27.2 lakhs
Courses Offered are
- M.A.Architecture
- M.Arch.Architecture
- M.Sc.Architecture and Urban Design
- M.Sc. Civil Engineering
- M.Sc. Manufacturing and Design
- MURP Urban and Regional Planning
About M.Sc. Civil Engineering
- Duration: 1 year
- Scholarships available (2,729,463 INR annually)
- Apply date Dec 2023
6. Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)
The Georgia institution of Technology (also known as Georgia Tech and GT) is a public research university and institution of technology located in Atlanta, Georgia. It joined the University System of Georgia in 1885 and includes satellite campuses in Savannah, Georgia, Metz, France, Shenzhen, China, and Singapore. It is dedicated to enhancing the human condition through cutting-edge science and technology.
Courses Offered are:
- M.Sc.Architecture
- MArchArchitecture
- MArch / MSc Architecture and City and Regional Planning
- M.Sc. City and Regional Planning
- M.Sc. City and Regional Planning and Civil Engineering
- M.Sc. City and Regional Planning and Law
- MCRP / MSPPCity and Regional Planning and Public Policy
- M.Sc. Industrial Design
- MREDReal Estate Development
- M.Sc. Urban Design
About M.sc Industrial Design
- Duration: 2 years
- Scholarships available (2,890,628 INR Annually)
- Apply date Feb 2024
(Read More: In-demand jobs for graduates in planning course)
7. University of Pennsylvania
Penn has a long history of converting knowledge into socially conscious action, dating back to its founder, Benjamin Franklin. Penn lies in Philadelphia's University City neighborhood, an interesting blend of higher education, dining, retail, and urban life. Philadelphia was named the first World Heritage City in 2015, and it is rich in culture, history, and food. It is the cheapest city in the Northeast and one of the most walkable cities in the country, located in the center of the East Coast.
The annual fees are 46.4 Lakhs
Courses Offered are
- MArchArchitecture
- M.Sc.Architecture
- M.Sc.Architecture - Advanced Architectural Design
- M.A.City and Regional Planning
- MEBD Environmental Building Design
- MLALandscape Architecture
- M.Sc. Urban Spatial Analytics
About MEBD Environmental Building Design
- Duration: 1 year
- Scholarships available (4,643,494 INR annually)
- Apply by Jan 2024
8. Cornell University
Cornell University's main campus is located on East Hill in Ithaca, New York, with views of the city and Cayuga Lake. They have embraced the university's revolutionary spirit and encouraged one another to follow unconventional avenues of thought to influence change on a local and international scale.
Courses Offered are
- M.Sc. Advanced Architectural Design
- M.Sc. Architectural Science
- M.Arch.Architecture
- M.R.P./M.L.A.City and Regional Planning (dual degree)
- M.P.S.Landscape Architecture
- M.L.A.Landscape Architecture
- M.R.P./M.L.ALandscape Architecture (dual degree)
About M.R.P./M.L.A.City and Regional Planning (dual degree)
- Duration: 3 years
- Scholarships available (3,504,747 INR annually)
- Apply by Jan 2024
(Read More: Future scope of studying Town planning abroad)
9. University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
The institution of Michigan (U-M, UofM, UMich, or simply Michigan) is an Ann Arbor, Michigan-based public research institution. The institution was founded in 1817 and is the oldest and largest in Michigan; it was formed 20 years before the region became a state. Michigan has been a coeducational institution since 1871.
Courses Offered are
- M.Sc.Architecture Design and Research
- M.Sc. Industrial and Operations Engineering
- M.Sc. Science in Architecture
About M.Sc.Architecture Design and Research
- Duration: 1 year
- Scholarships available (4,306,714 INR annually)
- Apply by Jan 2024
Conclusion
Studying architecture in the United States opens up a world of possibilities, with famous universities and a wide range of architectural styles to explore. Studio-based learning, architectural history, building materials, and digital design are all part of the curriculum. Internships provide hands-on experience and networking possibilities, and the increasing demand for architects ensures a good job outlook. Engaging organizations, design challenges, and study visits boost student life. So, if you're interested in structurally strong buildings and a rewarding campus experience, studying in the United States is the way to go!
FAQs
How many years does it take to become an architect in the US?
Given speedy completion of tests (ARE), an individual could achieve a US architectural license in less than eight years with a five-year B. Arch and three years of AXP (an internship program that can begin during school). It may take a little longer for architects with an M.
Can a foreigner be an architect in USA?
Obtain an NCARB Certificate before applying to the Board. A foreign-licensed candidate must first contact NCARB and get an NCARB Certificate for Foreign Architects. If you have any queries about the NCARB Certificate, please contact NCARB.
Which US state is best for architects?
San Francisco, California is the greatest city in the US for architect jobs, while Virginia is the best state.
Most asked questions on Google
The common notion is that foreign universities are expensive, although with scholarships this is an exaggerated issue. What many fail to consider are time and effort. Studying in an Indian college leads to a lower average salary than earned by our western counterparts. This salary sets the tone for all future promotions since companies often look at your previous salaries during compensation appraisals. Additionally, most senior positions tend to be scooped up by individuals who have an international outlook through global exposure. Finally, studying in a foreign country is an incredible learning experience helping students get a better academic as well as soft skill development.
Canada has been one of the market leaders in education for decades. However, what currently sets Maple Country apart is immigration. Canada is wholeheartedly inviting students to study in their universities to fill job vacancies that are always growing in the country. Students who study in Canada (especially a Master’s Degree) are practically assured of a Permanent Residency Visa.
A good score doesn’t automatically qualify a candidate for a scholarship, however, it is one of the primary factors that the admissions department looks for in a scholarship application. There are other attributes such as a candidate’s academics, extra-curricular, financial background, and application essays (SOPs).
We get this question a lot. Many candidates know which career path they want to take, but are at a loss for how to take that journey. Understanding the job role and the industry that you want to get into is the first step to picking the right university.
Carefully consider the immigration options of the country that the university that you are considering is in. This is more important when you intend to stay back in the country after the completion of your course.
Also, review the placement history of the university as well.
The first step is to list your preferences. By listing your preferences and strengths, describe your course of preference. Extensive research on the modules, software and its length for your preferred subject is necessary.
