• USA

A Complete Guide to Pursue Architecture in the USA

5353 Reads
3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Sep 29,2023 05:41 PM IST

The following blog provides in-depth knowledge about architectural courses in the USA. Students can gather information about the eligibility criteria for pursuing these courses and the universities in the USA that offer these courses. Further, a thorough reading of the blog will equip students with the benefits of pursuing a degree in Architecture in the USA along with the various levels of degrees available for architecture in the USA.

Best-Architecture-Universities-In-USA-Which-One-To-Choose.webp

Whenever a student expresses their wish to pursue a degree in architecture in the USA, the boundless creativity and innovation that awaits them, always comes to mind. Architecture’s influence is woven into the length and breadth of this very vast and diverse nation, as seen on busy streets of iconic cities to the inspiring structures that adorn the American skyline. A Google search yields more than 100 results when a user searches ‘famous buildings in the USA’. This indicates the rich architectural history of the country. The country excels in the terms of masterpieces, which can be credited to its educational programs and universities. These factors influence a student’s decision to study abroad and pursue architecture in America.

Why Study Architecture in America?

The United States of America offers a plethora of opportunities and advantages, making it the most sought after destination for architectural studies. Students can grab the opportunity to immerse in a diverse cultural landscape of the country. Architects in America are at the forefront of sustainable designs that blend seamlessly with nature. The field of architecture is a unique fusion of science, creativity, mathematics, and cutting-edge technology. Pursuing an architecture degree in the USA provides students an opportunity to give shape to their dreams and make a lasting impact on the world.

Educational and Training System in the United States of America

Architecture schools in USA offer various programs and specializations for international students to pursue their Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Architecture. To kick-start their career as an architect, students must first gain a relevant academic degree. They can do so by enrolling in bachelor courses such as Bachelor of Architecture or Bachelor of Design. The Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) program is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). It is generally of 5 years.

To obtain licensure and work as an architect, students opt to pursue a Master of Architecture. It is a professional degree that varies in its duration. This program helps students gain in-depth knowledge about architectural theory, design, and practice.

Students must research thoroughly and apply to architecture programs that are accredited by NAAB. It ensures that students enrolled in architecture programs in the USA receive a high-quality of education to meet standards required for obtaining a professional license.

Architecture universities in USA for international students lay strong emphasis on hands-on learning. Students work on creative design projects that ultimately boost their creative and technical skills.

Most importantly, to obtain a license and become an architect in the United States, graduates are required to complete the Intern Development Program (IDP) and qualify in the Architect Registration Exam. Within the Intern Development Program, students are required to obtain professional experience under the supervision of a licensed architect. Upon meeting all the requirements, graduates can apply for state license.

Architecture universities in USA offer a range of specializations, allowing students to focus on specific areas such as digital architecture, historic preservation, sustainable design, or urban planning. They can also choose from elective subjects to tailor their education to suit their interests.

Many architecture programs encourage students to engage in research projects and make a notable contribution towards the advancement of architectural knowledge.

With a degree in architecture in the United States of America, international students, particularly from India, have the opportunity to gain access to valuable resources and network with like-minded people to explore diverse career opportunities. Students can join professional organizations such as the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture.

Specializations Available in Architecture in the USA

There are many specializations available in the USA that international students from India can pick from according to their interests, passion and goals. Most of the universities in the USA offer specialized programs (also known as elective courses) to help students focus on specific aspects of architecture. Given below is a list of specializations that students can take up to give their careers a particular direction.

• Sustainable Architecture

• Digital Design and Visualization

• Urban Designing and Planning

• Heritage Conservation

• Interior Architecture

• Landscape Architecture

• Architectural Technology

• Commercial and Retail Design

• Residential Architecture

Students must make efforts to check the availability of the above specializations with the university they are interested in.

Admission Requirements to Pursue Architecture in the USA

Students must make note of the admission requirements defined by each of the university they have shortlisted. Given below are the general conditions that almost every university asks an international student from India to fulfil:

Program	Requirements
Bachelor's	1. Class XII Higher Secondary Certificate 2. English language proficiency test scores (TOEFL or IELTS)
Master's	1. Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or a relevant course. 2. Portfolio 3. English language proficiency test scores (TOEFL or IELTS)

Universities that offer Architecture in the United States of America

The tables below provide an overview of the universities that offer Bachelors and Masters programs in Architecture in the USA.

Bachelor's

Name of the Course	Name of the University
Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering	University of Alabama
Bachelor of Science in Building Construction	Auburn University
Bachelor of Science in Urban and Regional Development	University of Arizona
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Major in Interior Design	San Jose State University
Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture	University of Connecticut
Bachelor of Science in Interior Design	Illinois State University
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture	Louisiana State University
Bachelor of Arts in Architecture (Environmental Design)	Montana State University
Bachelors of Science in Architectural Engineering	University of Nebraska
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design	New York University of Technology

Master's

Name of the course	Name of the University
Master of Arts in Sustainable Communities	Northern Arizona University
Master of Science in Urban Planning	University of Arizona
Master of Science in Construction Management	California State University
Master of Urban Planning	San Jose State University
Master of Design and Merchandising with specialization in Interior Design	Colorado State University
Master of Arts in Family and Consumer Sciences – Interior Design	Illinois State University
Master of Arts in Interior Architecture	Suffolk University
Master of Arts in Urban Planning	Minnesota State University
Master of Architecture (STEM)	Montana State University
Master of Science in Urban Studies	University of Nebraska

Work Opportunities after Pursuing a Degree in Architecture in the USA

Many promising work opportunities await students who have earned a degree in architecture in the USA. After earning their license, graduates can work as architects to design and oversee construction of a wide range of buildings such as innovative skyscrapers to sustainable homes. They can also work in architectural firms and collaborate with different teams to transform their creative vision into reality. Additionally, architecture graduates can explore an environmentally conscious career by working on sustainable and green building projects.

Conclusion

Pursuing architecture in the USA can be an excellent investment for international students. They are exposed to invaluable experience that enriches their portfolio. United States of America is known for its innovative designs and architectural influence that makes it the perfect study abroad destination to study and develop a career in architecture.

To gather more knowledge about Architecture universities in the USA, students can get in touch with the study abroad consultants of Canam. They can also get in touch with Canamprep to prepare for the IELTS, PTE, and spoken English exams. They can assist students in boosting their language test preparation to study abroad in the United States of America.

Also read : How to apply for Indian Passport to Study Abroad

FAQ

Why study architecture abroad?

Many factors influence a student’s decision making when it comes to studying architecture abroad. International students experience state-of-the-art universities with world class amenities, esteemed faculty, international exposure, and an opportunity to pursue a globally recognized degree. When candidates study abroad, they have the opportunity to work and eventually settle down in the country as per their future goals.

What is the duration of the entire course?

Some Bachelor’s courses in Architecture in the USA take up to 4-5 years to complete. Master’s courses vary in their duration and can take up to 2- 3 years to complete. Students must get in touch with overseas consultants at Canam to get more details about their courses.

Is work experience compulsory for admission?

To pursue a degree in architecture in the USA, a portfolio showcasing a student’s body of work is beneficial during the application process. Prospective students are advised to stay updated with the university requirements for each institution will have unique admission eligibility criteria.

Is it worth doing Masters in Architecture in the USA?

Pursuing architecture in the US prepares students for careers that applies their creativity to construct, design, and implement plans that impact the environment of people around them. Prospective students can choose from a range of architectural specialities such as historical to modern, from Asian to eco-friendly, among many others.

How much does it cost to study architecture in the USA?

For a Bachelors of Architecture in the USA which is a 4 to 5 years program, tuition fee ranges from approximately $20,000 USD to $60,000 USD per annum. For students pursuing Masters in Architecture, the tuition fee ranges from $11,700 USD to $62,580 USD per annum. Students must get in touch with their abroad education consultants from Canam to get proper knowledge about the costs.

Get great articles direct to your inbox

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

Popular Universities to Study Abroad

World class education waiting for you.

University of Greenwich - Avery hill Campus

England, UK • 4 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 15000-16000 / year

Coastal Carolina University

South Carolina, USA • 75 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 29000-30000 / year

Southern Cross University - Lismore Campus

New South Wales, Australia • 11 Programmes

Tuition Fee : AUD 29000-37000 / year

Bournemouth University - Lansdowne Campus

England, UK • 10 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 15250-16500 / year

Humber Polytechnic - North Campus

Ontario, Canada • 109 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 12000-29000 / year

Coquitlam College

British Columbia, Canada • 3 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 18300-18500 / year

Fresenius University of Applied Sciences - Berlin Campus

Berlin, Germany • 12 Programmes

Tuition Fee : EUR 9840-12240 / year

Fresenius University of Applied Sciences - Heidelberg Campus

Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany • 1 Programmes

Tuition Fee : EUR 0-0 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

The International Education Fair

Study in Canada, UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Dubai, Singapore, Germany, Ireland, France

New Delhi • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

UNB MBA Tour - Student Fair

Study in Canada • University Visit

Hyderabad • 03:00PM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Saskatchewan Colleges (MSM)

Study in Canada • University Visit

Chennai • 02:00PM

In-Person Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

Blogs and Articles

Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.

SAT Exam 2025: Dates, Registration, Eligibility, and Preparation Tips

Are you dreaming of studying at the top universities in the USA? If yes, then you should definitely know about one important exam, which is the SAT. I...

Updated on • Apr 24,2025 05:48 PM IST • Education

Ireland Student Visa Process 2025 | Step-by-Step Guide & Requirements

Wondering why to study in Ireland?. We will give you numerous reasons to head in that direction. Apart from being one of the most preferred study dest...

Updated on • Apr 19,2025 03:30 PM IST • Ireland

ACT vs. SAT: Which One to Choose?

Many colleges and universities require students to submit scores from the SAT or ACT- both recognized standardized exams as part of the admission proc...

Updated on • Apr 14,2025 01:46 PM IST • Study Abroad

Five Types of IELTS Essays

Love giving opinions? Welcome to IELTS writing task 2. In this task, you get different types of essays, one of which is an opinion essay. There are fi...

Updated on • Apr 11,2025 05:53 PM IST • IELTS

Backlog Certificate: A Complete Guide

What is a backlog?In an academic context, a "backlog" refers to a course or subject that a student did not pass on their first attempt during their re...

Updated on • Apr 11,2025 01:47 PM IST • Study Abroad Guidance

PTE Score Chart 2025: PTE Exam Scoring System & Calculation

Most international institutions demand proof of strong English skills, making language proficiency tests a necessity to pursue higher education. While...

Updated on • Apr 09,2025 05:37 PM IST • PTE

Master's in Computer Science in the USA

Silicon Valley in the United States of America has been the global mecca of technology and invention. Every significant technological advancement has ...

Updated on • Apr 08,2025 05:59 PM IST • USA

MBA is one of the most sought-after courses worldwide and consistently tops the list of preferred study abroad courses for Indian students. Now, wheth...

Updated on • Apr 08,2025 04:47 PM IST • Study Abroad

Describe Your Hometown IELTS Speaking Part 1 Topic

The IELTS Speaking part 1 topic ‘Describe your Hometown’ is one of the most often asked and easiest topics to answer in an IELTS test. In this top...

Updated on • Apr 07,2025 05:50 PM IST • IELTS

How to Get a Job in USA in 2025

USA is not just a great destination for studying abroad, but also for pursuing a full-time job. That’s why the internet is filled with queries like ...

Updated on • Apr 07,2025 03:19 PM IST • USA

Highest Paying Jobs in the World

With super-advanced technologies like AI entering every field, the assumptions are high that the job roles that exist today won't exist after some yea...

Updated on • Apr 01,2025 05:31 PM IST • Study Abroad

Student Life in Ireland in 2025

“World-Class Standards, Warmest of Welcomes”. The tagline highlights the ideal balance of a high-quality education and a tremendous, hospitable cu...

Updated on • Mar 29,2025 05:50 PM IST • Ireland

Top Public Universities in Germany

It’s a notion that studying abroad is expensive, but there is one country that is breaking this notion. Germany, also known as the land of ideas, of...

Updated on • Mar 26,2025 04:33 PM IST • Germany

Top Universities for Masters in Ireland in 2025

Learning never stops. Humans learn till their last breath. After completing your bachelor’s degree, you might be considering pursuing a master’s d...

Updated on • Mar 25,2025 04:36 PM IST • Ireland

Cost of Living in Singapore for Indian Students in 2025

Once a poor island nation, Singapore now has become one of the wealthiest countries in the world. Also known as Lion City, Singapore is becoming an in...

Updated on • Mar 22,2025 11:57 AM IST • Singapore

PTE vs IELTS : Know the Difference and Which is Easier?

An English proficiency test is required to study in countries such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the US, the UK, and others. PTE and IELTS are th...

Updated on • Mar 21,2025 03:38 PM IST • IELTS

IELTS Score for Germany 2025

Germany is an emerging study-abroad destination for international students seeking affordable, high-quality education. Its other benefits include a wi...

Updated on • Mar 20,2025 10:19 AM IST • Germany

IELTS Score for Ireland 2025

Ireland is one of the top study-abroad destinations targeted by international students. The country is ranked 2nd in the Global Peace Index 2024, has ...

Updated on • Mar 12,2025 11:20 AM IST • Ireland

Master's in Robotics in USA

Technology keeps improving daily and leads to new inventions. One such invention is robotics, which is making human life easier. The USA, being a top ...

Updated on • Mar 11,2025 01:18 PM IST • USA

Best Countries to Study Abroad for Indian Students in 2025

Looking for the best countries to study abroad in 2025? Studying abroad can be an endeavour for Indian students to upgrade their skill set towards bet...

Updated on • Mar 08,2025 01:24 PM IST • Study Abroad

A Complete Guide to Pursue Architecture in the USA

Table of Contents

Why Study Architecture in America?

Educational and Training System in the United States of America

Specializations Available in Architecture in the USA

Admission Requirements to Pursue Architecture in the USA

Universities that offer Architecture in the United States of America

Bachelor's

Master's

Work Opportunities after Pursuing a Degree in Architecture in the USA

Conclusion

FAQ

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams