<p>Hi there! I'm a senior in high school, and I've been accepted into ISU's architecture program, but I haven't accepted yet. I have a few questions about some things that made me nervous.</p>
<p>I visited this summer, and I loved the overall campus, but the Architecture area seemed a little depressing at first. I've heard great things about the program, but I was wondering about some things I heard on the tour. The guide made it seem like architecture majors are in studio nonstop, rarely even visiting their dorms. Is this true? Or were they just trying to make the program seem really rigorous?</p>
<p>And I had a question about the structure of the program. I know that the norm at ISU is to do a 5-year bachelor's program, but I've been told by my high school architecture teacher that I should get a master's degree. Is a bachelor's degree at ISU comparable to a master's elsewhere?</p>
<p>And then about the whole generic freshman year thing. They told us how everybody at the design school takes the same courses freshman year, and then applies for admission to their specific school after the first year. I'm worried that I will spend a year in this program, and then not be accepted into the architecture program. Is this a real concern, or do most people who apply make it in?</p>
<p>Regarding your first question about being in the studio all the time this is true for all arch. programs. You’ll have to spend long days 12 hrs plus probably doing work. Regarding master’s degree you really have to earn it by going to graduate school no matter how prestigious the program a bachelors degree is a bachelors degree. On your last question you would have to ask the department on the % accepted or maybe a current student could help you.</p>
<p>Our son is an arch student at ISU and loves it. It is true that his studio courses require a lot of time in studio. Late into the night or all night is not uncommon. His group of friends work hard but seem to enjoy the friendships and working together. We toured many schools that all told us this was the case at their school. So believe it and leave that out of your decision as it is likely equal everywhere. AS for the bachelor’s degree question, that is something you need to research and make a decision on. This is my opinion only- A BARCH or MARCH are both entry level architecture degrees and take at least 5 years. (Likely both take 5). If you want to the 4+2 or 4+3 route, do your homework on what that offers you and how it may impact job opportunities. I suggest you speak to some local architects on this issue. The ones we spoke to did not seem to care as much as the quality of your work and whether you would fit into their culture. Good luck</p>