<p>Just asking if majoring in architectural studies in a regular liberal arts college is worth anything in terms of getting a career in the field? I know that most people who become architects apply already in their udergrad to a specific architecture school/program which are usually incredibly selective in terms of who they admit. In my case I got into a good liberal arts college but my application qualified me to major in everything from chemistry to anthropology and from philosophy to art history. Theres basically everything you can imagine. The major of architectural studies just caught my eye since I might be interested in that. However, I haven't done anything architecture related prior and since the major is open to everyone who just manage to get into the most general school I wonder if majoring in architectural studies in my school would be worth the money? Would the major just be laughed at or could it actually give me a chance to get into a good architecture grad school?</p>
<p>It depends, is it a accredited architecture program? If not then you will not be able to test for your license and it would be pointless. You can’t do anything in architecture without a license unless you want to draft for the rest of your life. However you could stay at the liberal arts college and then transfer to a accredited program at a university. Also what is the name of this liberal arts college? </p>
<p>A BA in architectural studies is a good foundation for admission to an MArch program. It gives you a good art history background and the opportunity to start building your portfolio for your MArch application, plus the communication and critical thinking skills inherent in the liberal arts. </p>
<p>Just be sure to cover yourself in physics and calculus. Some MArch programs require both, some one, some none. You have to check the individual requirements.</p>
<p>I would also note that you can get into a good MArch program with a degree in just about anything (as long as your portfolio is strong and you fulfill the program’s entrance requirements). So take your time in deciding your major and choose something that interests you. The advisers in your college’s architectural studies department will be able to give you more information about what their majors have done post-graduation.</p>
<p>When you get further along, you can attend an MArch information session to get a better idea of what they’re looking for.</p>
<p>Most importantly try to get a summer job or internship with an architecture firm to make sure the field appeals to you. Most colleges that offer a degree in architectural studies also have good internship placement, so take advantage of their counseling.</p>
<p>Many MArch students work for a year or two before beginning their graduate work. Architecture firms do hire BAs in a variety of entry-level positions (not as architects, obviously). This is a good way to get exposure to the industry.</p>
<p>There are arguments to be made for each of the different paths to becoming an architect: BA+MArch, BS+March, BArch. Each has positives and negatives. Bear in mind, though, that the MArch is an expensive degree.</p>
<p>Hi momrath - When you said “be sure to cover yourself in physics and calculus” what did you mean? At Wash U my D is required to take only one course of each. Is that good enough for admission to an MArch program?</p>