Architecture Degree Programs

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  2. Architecture Degree Programs

Explore local and online technical colleges offering architecture degree programs, architecture technician training, CAD certification, and various related courses. Discover a range of educational paths to help you build skills in architecture, design, and drafting. Use our search application to easily find technical colleges near you, and choose the program that best fits your career goals in architecture and design.

5 Notable Schools With Architecture Programs

Here are five schools offering notable architecture programs.

  • Dunwoody College of Technology: Located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Dunwoody offers a Bachelor of Architecture program with a two-plus-three stackable credential structure. Students earn an Associate of Applied Science degree after the first two years and a Bachelor of Architecture degree after the final three years.
  • NewSchool of Architecture and Design: Based in San Diego, California, NewSchool provides several architecture programs, including a Bachelor of Architecture and a Master of Architecture, both accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB).
  • American College of the Building Arts (ACBA): Located in Charleston, South Carolina, ACBA offers a Bachelor of Applied Science in the Building Arts with specializations like classical architecture. The college combines a liberal arts education with hands-on building arts skills.
  • Tyler School of Art and Architecture at Temple University: Situated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Tyler provides programs including a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and a Master of Architecture, with the M.Arch program accredited by NAAB.
  • New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) School of Architecture and Design: Located in New York, NYIT offers professional architecture degrees accredited by NAAB, including a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) program.

These schools offer diverse architectural education and training paths, preparing students for careers in design, drafting, and architecture.

Cost of Architecture Programs:

The cost of architecture-related programs varies based on factors such as program length, institution type, and residency status. Here’s an overview:

Associate Degrees (2-year programs):

  • Architecture Technician and CAD Programs: These programs are typically offered by community colleges or technical schools. Annual tuition ranges from $3,000 to $10,000 for in-state students. Out-of-state students may pay between $6,000 and $20,000 per year. For example, the Architectural 2D CAD Certificate at Anoka Technical College is a 16-credit program designed to develop specific 2D CAD skills.

Bachelor’s Degrees (4-year programs):

  • Architecture Programs: Public universities often charge in-state students between $10,000 and $20,000 annually. Out-of-state students may face tuition costs ranging from $25,000 to $40,000 per year. Private institutions can have higher tuition fees, sometimes exceeding $50,000 annually. For instance, the University of Texas at Austin offers a Bachelor of Architecture program with annual tuition for in-state students around $14,000 to $17,000.

Additional Costs:

  • Materials and Supplies: Architecture students often incur additional expenses for materials, software, and studio supplies, averaging $2,000 to $4,000 per year.
  • Licensing and Examination Fees: Aspiring architects must pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE), with total costs around $1,410, assuming all sections are passed on the first attempt.

Financial Aid and Scholarships:

Many institutions offer financial aid, scholarships, and grants to help offset these costs. It’s advisable to research and apply for these opportunities to reduce the financial burden.

Note: Tuition fees are subject to change and can vary widely between institutions. It’s recommended to consult specific colleges or universities for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

10 Different Careers in Architecture

Here are some popular career paths within the field of architecture:

  1. Architect: The primary role of architects involves designing buildings and structures, developing blueprints, and overseeing construction to ensure projects meet aesthetic, functional, and safety standards. Architects typically specialize in residential, commercial, or industrial projects.
  2. Landscape Architect: These professionals focus on designing outdoor spaces such as parks, gardens, campuses, and urban areas. They consider environmental sustainability, aesthetics, and usability to create functional and beautiful landscapes.
  3. Interior Architect: Interior architects specialize in the layout and interior design of structures, ensuring that spaces are safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. They often work closely with interior designers but have additional technical knowledge in architectural design.
  4. Urban Planner: Urban planners focus on the development of cities and communities. They collaborate with local governments and stakeholders to create zoning plans, transportation systems, and community facilities, aiming for sustainable and efficient growth.
  5. Architectural Technologist: These professionals apply scientific principles to building design, often focusing on the technical aspects of a project, such as materials and construction methods. They work closely with architects to bring design concepts to life in practical ways.
  6. Historic Preservation Architect: These architects specialize in the restoration and preservation of historic buildings. They ensure renovations maintain the historical integrity of structures while meeting modern building codes and safety standards.
  7. Industrial Designer: Industrial designers in architecture focus on designing products and structures that improve functionality and user experience. They may work on the design of furniture, building components, or even larger infrastructure elements.
  8. Architectural Drafter: Drafters use software like AutoCAD to create technical drawings and plans based on architects’ specifications. They play a crucial role in translating design concepts into precise technical blueprints for construction.
  9. Green Building & Sustainability Consultant: These professionals specialize in sustainable design practices, advising on energy efficiency, eco-friendly materials, and green building certifications. Their goal is to minimize a building’s environmental impact.
  10. Architectural Engineer: Working closely with architects, architectural engineers focus on the structural integrity and mechanical aspects of buildings, such as HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems, ensuring that designs are both innovative and structurally sound.

These career paths reflect the diverse roles within architecture, allowing professionals to focus on technical, creative, environmental, or managerial aspects of building and design.

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