Hi all! I am a junior currently starting the process of putting together my college list. I would love to study architecture but I don’t take art classes at school so I currently have no portfolio. I was wondering if there are any schools with solid architecture programs that don’t require a portfolio to apply. Or, would it be worthwhile to try to put together some sort of portfolio just so I can apply elsewhere? I don’t want to submit something that looks unprofessional or like I don’t know what I’m doing. I don’t have much artistic skill but I know I can do the type of drawing the field requires. Any possible schools or advice?
Check out this response: http://talk.qa.collegeconfidential.com/architecture-major/2084002-is-it-too-late.html#latest
If there’s any way you can manage it, I would suggest researching summer architecture programs for high school students and attending one this summer. This would have the dual benefit of “test driving” your interest in the major, and generating material you could use for a portfolio. This list is from last year but shows how many great options there are: https://www.studyarchitecture.com/blog/architecture-news/2018-architecture-summer-programs/ Of course there are some good non-portfolio architecture schools, but even at those, the fact that you attended an intensive program and validated your interest in the field will strengthen your application. (Also check your local community colleges - my daughter was able to take a one-credit Architectural Modeling class, tuition-free, that really turned out to be great.)
Once students experience the studio and critique process, many love it and redouble their commitment to the field, but quite a few realize that it’s not for them after all. It’s valuable for your own sake to have that experience before you apply to colleges; and having passed that first proof-of-concept filter will give colleges more confidence in your commitment to architecture as well.
@titsubishi The first step is to determine whether you want to pursue a professional Bachelor OF Architecture (BArch) or a Bachelor of Art or Science IN architecture, architectural studies or something else (BA/BS). With a BA or BS you will need to get a Master of Architecture (MArch) in order to become a licensed architect in most states.
You mention on another thread that you’re “hoping to apply to some elite schools, including some Ivy Leagues.” Be aware that among the Ivy League and other elites like Stanford & MIT, the only one that offers the BArch is Cornell. Admission to Cornell’s BArch program is heavily weighted on the portfolio. There are several highly ranked BArch programs that do not require a portfolio, e.g., CalPoly SLO, VA Tech, Auburn, but most do.
For most BA/BS architecture programs, a portfolio is not required, though it may be encouraged or recommended. There are exceptions; you have to research how each school structures its major. At some BA/BS programs you go right into the architecture program from day one. At others you apply to the major during your sophomore year. Some offer accelerated BA/BS+MArch channels, but admission to the MArch is not always guaranteed.
I wholeheartedly agree with @aquapt that attending a summer career-in-architecture program is an excellent way to build a portfolio and to reaffirm that architecture is the right path for you, especially if you’re considering the BArch.
I would also encourage you to take a visual art class during the first semester of your senior year. These days architects aren’t required to do much actual non-CAD hand drawing, but the conceptual aspect of art and design, both creating and defending the thought process, is an integral part of architecture. Going into a college level studio without some prior create & critique experience would be very challenging.