Studying at a School of Architecture

Applying and being accepted to a university of architecture is a great first step, but what comes next? Being prepared for what the program will entail is a big part of being successful, especially in that first semester.

Generally, all architecture programs begin the same way: with an overview of the basics of architecture. This occurs in the first year before asking students to specialize in one area. The first year will generally include courses such as the following:

• Introduction to Design
• Environmental Design
• Fundamentals of Design I and II

These courses are designed to give an overview of the types of programs available, ensure that architecture is the proper area of study for students whom have selected the school of architecture for their education.  Courses often peak interest in more specialized areas of study so that students can find exactly the best fit for their personal interests. These courses are taken in addition to any of the core requirements of the school required for graduation, such as English, Mathematics, History, and Science.

After the first year, or first sequence of basic courses, students generally gain entrance to the school of architecture. It is then that they choose a specific degree area, such as architectural design, environmental design, building construction, industrial design, urban design, or building technology. Although schools vary and this is not an exhaustive list of undergraduate degree areas, they seem to be the most common you will find within most architecture departments. Upon entering a degree program, students will take courses tailored to address their area of study. After the second year of college, students will then usually determine a particular focus point of their studies. Although some students decide to stick to a more generalized approach to their education, most choose a particular focus area in order to distinguish themselves and address their greatest interest. Some examples of these focal areas might include:

• Culture of Architecture in the program Architecture Design
• Ecology in the program Environmental Design
• Facility Management in the program Industrial Design
• Classical Design in the program Architecture Design
• City Planning in the program Urban Design

These specialized focus areas give students the ability to determine and develop special interests, and give them a first step in the career search that occurs after graduation. Many students join with a professor who has similar interests to their focus area of study and form a mentor relationship with that professor. At this point, students will begin assembling their portfolio to prepare for future job interviews and employment opportunities.

As you can see, attending a university that has a college of architecture is much more than simply sitting through a few lecture classes, but involves a very real and tactile experience. Students in these programs have many options and the ability to personalize their program so that they can get as much out of it as possible. Choosing the right program for your needs is the first step to having a great experience at school.