Interested in studying Architecture? Here are some of our favourite programs in the US, UK, and HK, as well as important information unique to architecture applications.
Cornell University
Cornell is home to one of the most respected architecture programs in the US. The 5-year professional program leads to a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) degree, which is professionally accredited, meaning graduates can practice as licensed architects. For our Hong Kong students, this program is also a designated STEM program, meaning international graduates can extend their F-1 visas for up to three years to work in the US after graduation.
Carnegie Mellon University
CMU’s School of Architecture offers two undergraduate programs: the 5-year Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) and the 4-year Bachelor of Arts in Architecture (B.A.). Both programs begin with the same studio-based curriculum in the first year but then diverge in opportunities and outcomes. The B.A. is a liberal studies degree program that allows more flexible electives and allows students to double major, which may be perfect for students who may not necessarily want to commit to becoming an architect. With the B.A, you can take your time to explore different opportunities and continue with architecture by following with a 2-year professional M.Arch. program (often called a 4+2) or go on to specialise in a broader range of design fields like urban design, landscape architecture, sustainability, and more.
Syracuse University
Syracuse’s School of Architecture is one of the oldest architecture schools in the US. With its origins as a department within the College of Fine Art, the school strongly emphasises design. Students are encouraged to explore the arts, humanities, and social sciences as part of their electives to complement the rigorous curriculum in professional skills with broader knowledge to succeed in the contemporary global economy. Syracuse’s 3-week Summer College Architecture residential program is very popular with our students, allowing them to participate in lectures, field trips, and hands-on studio work, which can give students a head start on their portfolios. Professors are usually happy to provide feedback and review student portfolios before submission, too!
The Bartlett, University College London
The UK’s architecture profession is regulated, and you must register with the Architects Registration Board (ARB). The current registration route involves completing three qualifications – Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 – and two years of practical experience. So, when looking for UK courses, ensure they are accredited accordingly.
UCL’s Barlett is a leader in design representation and offers 4 undergraduate degree programs: an Architecture BSc, a new Architecture MSci, an Engineering & Architectural Design MEng, and an Architectural & Interdisciplinary Studies BSc. Only the first 3 programs put the student on track to become a licensed architect through the ARB/RIBA Part 1 accreditation. The MSci course is a 5-year integrated Master’s, meaning you graduate with Parts 1 and 2 after spending the final year in placement in an architectural practice.
University of Cambridge
For those who want to apply to Oxbridge, your only option would be Cambridge, as Oxford does not offer an Architecture degree. At Cambridge, Architecture is offered as a Bachelor of Arts, with a focus on architectural history, theory, and philosophy. Upon completion, Cambridge awards ARB/RIBA Part 1. As with all other Cambridge applications, we prepare the student for the comprehensive interview, where you will be asked to present your submitted portfolio, discuss architectural influences, and usually complete a timed sketching task.
Architectural Association School of Architecture
The AA is the oldest independent school of architecture in the UK. Since it is not a member of UCAS – all applications are directly through the school – it serves as a great 6th option for students outside the UCAS limit of 5 programs. The school offers a 5-year course, composed of the “Intermediate Program” (Years 1-3, ARB/RIBA Part 1) and the “Diploma Program” (Years 4-5, ARB/RIBA Part 2). The curriculum is structured to empower students and faculty to challenge accepted methods within contemporary architectural education and professional practice to confront today’s technological and cultural challenges.
University of Hong Kong
A popular option for students who want to explore local options is HKU’s Architectural Studies BA(AS). A competitive program, accepting only 56 students in 2023/24, the admissions process includes an interview and aptitude exercise. Last year, the task was to reflect on a social or environmental issue which has a negative effect on your neighbourhood or environment, and applicants were given 2 weeks to submit a response in their chosen medium (e.g. illustration, painting, photography, physical models, sculpting) and a description of their proposed solution to the problem. HKU also offers a summer program, Career Discovery in Architecture, a good, affordable, local option.
Deciding to study Architecture can be a daunting process. At Quantum, we provide comprehensive support for aspiring architecture students at every stage of their academic journey. Our services include expert guidance on selecting subjects, summer courses, and work experience to prepare students for the application process. When it comes to applying, we help you choose the right programs based on your priorities and career goals while clarifying accreditation requirements and helping you navigate potential pitfalls in the application process. We also prepare students for interviews and admissions tasks.
Quantum Prep is an education consultancy that focuses on placing their students at the best colleges or universities. We boast of diverse results. In addition to the traditional rap sheet of prestigious university acceptances, our consultants like to highlight the different paths they have sent students on. All of our students are different; we are proud of our one-on-one tailored approach towards university counselling. Contact us for a complimentary 30-minute initial meeting, where you can get tailored individualized advice on how to put your best foot forward. Read our reviews to see what our clients think of us.
By Emma Keoy, Admissions Consultant
Published 14-12-2024
