Life of an architect revealed that there were 25,000 students enrolled in an architecture program in USA. Pursuing architecture in USA has become a well-sought decision by most international students. Whether you pursue bachelor of architecture in USA or a graduate degree, students can expect a better salary figure, plenty of job opportunities, and the ability to learn from the best minds in this industry.
The USA education system has become popular because the country provides everything a student or a faculty needs to enhance the learning experience here. Thus when it comes to pursuing architecture courses in USA, the country offers a range of internships and hands-on training experiences a student can benefit from. So, if you’re considering to study architecture in USA, this blog covers everything you need to get started.
Why Study Architecture In USA?
Before we can head towards learning about the architecture jobs in USA for fresher, the scope of architecture in USA, etc., let’s first understand why you should pursue this course in USA:
- Diverse Course Curriculum- The course curriculum of architecture universities in USA for international students focuses more on design and art. Each degree program offers a refined course format wherein students can observe, challenge, and learn the world of architecture. This will prepare them well once they enter this professional world.
- Types of Degree Programs- There are various degree programs available for international students to choose from at every architecture university in USA. You opt for a bachelor’s degree, also known as M Arch I, a master’s degree, or M Arch II, and a Phd in architecture.
- QS-Ranked Universities- International students applying to the best architecture universities in USA are guaranteed to find better architecture jobs in USA for Indian. All these universities are listed on the QS World University Rankings, out of which most have an academic and employer reputation of a 100%. Yale University (Rank 18), Cornell University (Rank 20), etc. are all examples.
- Place of Architecture Beauty- You can be confident to receive the best education from top architecture colleges in the USA. This is because the country is home to the finest globally recognized monuments, such as Mount Rushmore, Lincoln Memorial, etc., making it a great choice to study from the experts themselves.
5 Best Architecture Universities In USA
The scope of architecture in USA is high. This is one of the reasons why most international students, after graduation, look for architect jobs in USA. But to do well career-wise, it is necessary first to develop the right knowledge and skills academic-wise as well. Thus to help you study at the best architecture universities in USA, we’ve shortlisted five such institutes which you should consider in 2022:
- University of California, Berkeley
- Columbia University
- Cornell University
- University of Michigan
- University of Pennsylvania
University of California, Berkeley
University of California, Berkeley has been a popular choice for decades amongst international students. The university offers a wide range of architecture programs for students to choose from.
|
Type |
Public |
|
QS World University Rankings 2023 |
27 |
|
QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022: Architecture and Built Environment |
8 |
|
Course Offered |
BA Architecture, Master of Architecture (M Arch), Master of Advanced Architectural Design (MAAD), Phd in Architecture |
|
Course Duration |
Bachelors- 4 years Masters- 2-3 years Phd- 3 years |
|
Average Tuition Fees |
Bachelors- 14,254 USD/year Masters and Phd- 5,850 USD/per semester |
|
Location |
Berkeley |
Columbia University
Columbia University is another great educational institute to pursue architecture studies. They have a range of courses and specializations available for students to study. Apart from this, the educational facilities provided here are great.
|
Type |
Private |
|
QS World University Rankings 2023 |
22 |
|
QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022: Architecture and Built Environment |
16 |
|
Course Offered |
BA in Architecture, Master of Architecture, Phd in Architecture |
|
Course Duration |
Bachelors- 4 years Masters- 3 years Phd- 5 years |
|
Average Tuition Fees |
Bachelors- Masters- 62,580 USD/year ( 31,290 USD/per term) Phd- 28,006 USD/per semester |
|
Location |
New York City |
Cornell University
Cornell University has been a hit amongst international students since they offer a wide range of courses for them to choose from. The proof is the diverse architecture programs available to pursue a graduate degree for the same.
|
Type |
Private |
|
QS World University Rankings 2023 |
20 |
|
QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022: Architecture and Built Environment |
23 |
|
Course Offered |
Bachelor of Architecture, Professional Master of Architecture (M.Arch.), Post-Professional Advanced Architectural Design (M.S. AAD), Phd in the History of Architecture and Urban Development |
|
Course Duration |
Bachelors- 5 years Masters- 3.5 years Phd- 4-5 years |
|
Average Tuition Fees |
Bachelors- 61,015 USD/year Masters- 58,586 USD/year Phd- 29,500 USD/year |
|
Location |
Ithaca |
University of Michigan
University of Michigan is another prestigious university that offers a good range of architecture programs to choose from. Here the university is focused on helping students learn well in all aspects of architecture to prepare them better for the real world.
|
Type |
Public |
|
QS World University Rankings 2023 |
25 |
|
QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022: Architecture and Built Environment |
32 |
|
Course Offered |
Bachelor of Science in Architecture, Master of Architecture (M Arch), Master of Science in Architecture Design and Research, Phd in Architecture |
|
Course Duration |
Bachelors- 4 years Masters- 3 years Phd- 5-6 years |
|
Average Tuition Fees |
Bachelors- 56,652 USD/year Masters- 50,979 USD/year Phd- 50,744 USD/year |
|
Location |
Ann Arbor |
University of Pennsylvania
University of Pennsylvania is also a great choice when considering th top universities to pursue architecture studies from. The course curriculum covers all aspects of the subjects helping students develop the knowledge and skills required to be better architects.
|
Type |
Private |
|
QS World University Rankings 2023 |
13 |
|
QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022: Architecture and Built Environment |
40 |
|
Course Offered |
Bachelor of Arts in Architecture (Design, Intensive Design, etc), Master of Architecture, Phd in Architecture |
|
Course Duration |
Bachelors- 4 years Masters- 3 years Phd- 4-5 years |
|
Average Tuition Fees |
Bachelors- 56,212 USD/year Masters- 56,558 USD/year Phd- 39,838 USD/year |
|
Location |
Philadelphia |
Use the Yocket Admit Predictor to know your admission rate at your dream university
Eligibility Criteria For Architecture Courses In USA
Your admission at architecture universities in USA for international students is determined whether you meet the set eligibility criterias here. These criterias differ based on the university chosen. However, there is a standard process followed by all:
- Previous Academic Transcripts
- English Language Proficiency Test
- GRE Scores
- Pre-requisite Courses
- Studio Courses
- Course Sequence
Previous Academic Transcripts
Based on the degree program you have chosen, you need to submit your academic transcripts accordingly. If you’re applying to an undergraduate program in architecture, your high school transcripts, along with a portfolio of your work, are required.
If you’re applying for the master's program in architecture, you require a bachelor’s degree. If you apply for the Phd program in architecture, you require a bachelor's and master's degree. Also, ensure that your GPA scores are 2.0 and above for undergraduate and 3.0 and above for graduate programs.
English Language Proficiency Test
International students are required to write and pass the English language proficiency test. Most students write clear TOEFL and IELTS exams. The score requirement is IELTS for undergraduates is 6.0 +, and for graduates is 7+. TOEFL minimum is 100 or higher for all.
Which should you write, TOEFL or IELTS?
GRE Scores
Most architecture colleges in USA enquire about the GRE scores. However, a few universities don’t require the same as they consider other factors during the admission process, such as academic performance, etc. Ensure you check the university's official website to learn about the same.
Pre-requisite Courses
In a few USA universities, learning pre-requisite courses is required. The top courses are calculus, physics, etc.
Studio Courses
It is also better if students complete studio courses. This helps them in the design category as it will give them a better understanding since design plays a vital role in the learning aspects of architecture. The top courses you can study are drawing, fashion designing, etc.
Course Sequence
A few universities also expect students to complete a three-point course sequence in a few subjects such as theory or history, etc.
Admission Process At Architecture Colleges In USA
Once you meet all the eligibility criterias for the best architecture colleges in USA, you need to move forward with the admission process. Here is an overview for the same:
- Identify which USA university offers architecture courses in USA
- Once selected, visit the selected university’s official website to understand all the entry requirements
- Write and clear any US specified entrance exams if listed in the entry requirements
- Pay the application fee and complete your online application form
- Submit all relevant documents required before the application deadline
- Attend any interview if an invite has been sent by the university
- Once accepted, apply for USA student visa and arrange for sufficient funds
Documents Required To Study Architecture In USA
To successfully meet the architecture colleges in USA requirements, a set of USA universities based supporting documents are required based on the degree you choose. Below we have listed the complete details required if you pursue an undergraduate or graduate degree program to study architecture in USA:
- Three letters of recommendation
- Proof of student visa
- Basic course by course evaluation from World education services or education perspectives
- English Language Proficiency Test Scores
- GRE Scores Proof
- Financial Statement
- Payment of Application Fee (155 USD)
- Statement of Purpose
- All Official Transcripts
- Resume/CV
- Proof of Student health insurance
- Portfolio of any Creative work done previously
Cost Of Studying Architecture In USA
When you apply to the best universities for architecture studies in USA, having an understanding about the cost matters. There are two factors that impact the costs of studying architecture in USA, tuition fees and cost of living.
Let’s learn more about them below:
Tuition Fees
The tuition fees to study architecture in USA varies based on the degree program chosen. Here is an overview of the architecture in USA tuition fees based on the degree offered:
|
Bachelors |
14,254 USD/year- 56,652 USD/year |
|
Masters |
35,100 USD/year- 58,586 USD/year |
|
Phd |
29,500 USD/year- 50,744 USD/year |
Total cost of studying in USA for Indian students
Cost of Living
The cost of living in USA ranges from 10,000 USD-20,000 USD a year. Most of these expenses are rent from the accommodation, groceries, transport, miscellaneous expenses, etc. However, the one core factor that can impact your living expenses is the lifestyle choices you make.
Total cost of living in USA for Indian students in 2022
Scholarship Opportunities To Study Architecture In USA For International Students
Graduating from a prestigious university will guarantee good architect jobs in USA. Thus studying at the best architecture universities in USA is no longer a costly affair. With the help of scholarships, students receive either full or partial funding, which can be used to cover most of their expenses such as travel, living, etc. These scholarships can be undergraduate scholarships in USA, government-funded scholarships, etc.
Here is a list of scholarships available to study architecture in USA:
|
Scholarship Name |
Benefit/Covers/Amount/Grant |
|
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation |
Pursue full-time Masters program in USA in any discipline
Up to 100,000 USD |
|
ProNet David W. Lakamp Scholarship |
Studying architecture studies at the Americal Insitute of Architects
5000 USD |
|
Global Study Awards |
Enrolled in a PG program in USA and do well in IELTS exam
Offers 50% loan and grant to cover tuition, living and travel expenses |
|
Academic Excellence Awards |
Pursue any degree and are academically smart but have financial needs
500- 1000 USD for up to 3 years |
|
Brokerfish International Student Scholarship |
Pursue a degree in USA from a widely recognized university 1000 USD |
Access more scholarships for international students who wish to study abroad
Career Opportunities After Pursuing Architecture Courses In USA
The great part after graduating from the best architecture colleges in USA is the job opportunities and salary figures. Based on your academic qualifications, skills developed, and work experience (internship in USA included), a student’s salary figure will vary accordingly. Luckily, since USA is the hub for multiple memorable architectural figures, as an international student, you can expect better pay.
Thus here is an overview of the architecture jobs in USA for Indian students and the salary expectations:
|
Job Profile |
Average Annual Salary |
|
Intern Architect |
46,936 USD |
|
Interior Designer |
58,150 USD |
|
Senior Project Architect |
97,321 USD |
|
Architectural Associate |
50,913 USD |
|
Assistant Professor (Higher secondary) |
71,008 USD |
View blogs on career opportunities in USA
Wrapping Up….
USA has been well recognized when it comes to offering the best educational facilities for any courses an international student enrolls for. The decision to study architecture in USA for international students gives them a blend of theoretical and practical knowledge that will enhance their academic knowledge and skill development better. So, if you’re keen to study at the top architecture colleges in USA, speak to our Yocket counsellors today as they can help you select the right institute catered for your needs.
