I’m looking for advice on which college to choose, UVa or ND. I’m planning to major in architecture. I’ve visited both schools and love both. Notre Dame is closer to home (4 hours away), and UVa is further away (about 14 hours from home), but the distance doesn’t really matter to me. The costs are about the same too, so I’m not deciding on that factor. Does anyone have any advice in general about which school to choose, or (even better) advice in particular about the differences between the two architecture programs. Notre Dame is a 5 year B.Arch program where the architecture students spend their entire 3rd year in Rome. It’s a classical architecture program with emphasis on hand drafting and watercolors. UVa is a 4 year pre-professional degree, after which I would do a 2 year Masters somewhere. I’m ok with either option. I’m not Catholic, but that doesn’t matter to me much. I love the sense of community at both schools. I’m also a musician and plan to play in the marching band and sing. The football traditions at ND are stronger, but the band at both schools have great traditions and spirit. Whatever anyone is able to tell me about the architecture programs, the band, or the culture in general at either school would be appreciated. Thanks.
Only one school can claim America’s first university band… that plays the greatest of all university fight songs…
Both are great schools. But if you are sure you want architecture ND’s 5 year program will save you a year of school as well as the hassle of applying to grad programs down the road.
The band experience at ND can’t be beat! It’s truly a band family! Top-notch directors and student leadership. The football traditions are unmatched. The choir experience is excellent, too. Tons of school spirit and all-around great undergrad experience.
Definitely ND! A private prestigious university vs state university? That alone is a HUGE difference. Also as a parent, I would never pay OOS while 95 percent pay in state. That’s awful.
I agree with the above poster that ND is a great option, and could very well be the better option for architecture. However, I don’t think that just because UVA is a state university should be enough reason to stop considering it. UVA, at least in my area, is a highly respected school. Try to check out both if you can.
Also, try and reach out to some band members: it will likely be very difficult to both be an architect major and in the band, the band is a huge commitment. Just something to consider.
I know at least one arch. major in the band and the worst thing for them was missing football season while in Rome. Over half the band is comprised of Engineering students and they enjoy it despite their challenging course work.