<p>Hi! I was just wondering if anyone knew of a liberal arts college or a small university offering a good architecture program. I am very creative, and have a pretty clear artistic perspective because I am very serious about photography, but I have little experience with architecture. Because of this I don't want to apply to any pre-professional arch program, as I am not yet positive that it is the right major for me. Additionally I would rather attend a large liberal arts college or a small university as I would prefer to be surrounded by a more diverse selection of people/interests. Are there any schools that might be a good match? I have a 3.8 gpa from a competitive high school, and strong sats, if that helps! Thank you!</p>
<p>blue, you need to be clearer on your choices. If you go directly into a bachelor’s of architecture program you will be “finished” in 4 to 5 years. However, the B.Arch requires a focused commitment to architecture. If you’re not sure then it doesn’t sound like the right route for you.</p>
<p>If you choose to get a BA or a BS, followed by a master’s of architecture, then you’ll have lots of choices. Many colleges and universities offer a BA/BS in architectural studies, but it’s also possible to major in art, art history or just about anything that you’re interested in and then go on to an M.Arch program, as long as you fulfill the admissions requirements. If you want a wider undergraduate program, you don’t have to limit yourself to architectural studies.</p>
<p>Assuming that you will not go for the B.Arch, my advice would be to choose your undergraduate school based on the usual factors like size, location, ambience, personality. </p>
<p>Then over the course of four years, prepare to apply to an M.Arch program:
Take some architecture classes – drafting, art history. Try to get some exposure to the profession in an internship or summer job. Attend a summer exploration program. Build up a portfolio. Make sure that you cover the course requirements (which vary from school to school).</p>
<p>Princeton and Columbia have a BA in architecture where you do general studies for the first two years and then take studio classes during the final two years. I’m sure there are others. It will give you a good background in architecture, though you will probably still need to do a 3 year MArch.</p>
<p>rick</p>
<p>I think you’re right, momrath, what I’m really looking for is a liberal arts undergrad experience, then an M.Arch. I will still check out the programs at Princeton/Columbia, however. Thanks to both of you!</p>