Undergrad WashU v. UPenn V. Rice

College Majors Architecture Major
1

<p>I got into upenn, rice, and washu , all under the major architecture. I know some facts about rice and washu's programs but not penn's. I do know that penn has a great grad program, though. But, I'm going for undergrad! </p>

<p>Here's what i know:</p>

<p>Washu: good grad program, very friendly, design focused, great flexibility in academics. Preprofessional degree</p>

<p>Rice: known for its undergrad BArch program, small class size, preceptorship, apparently good job placement. Not as flexible in academics</p>

<p>Upenn: ivy league, research based, large, doesnt start any arch until junior year. I'm wondering, is it easier to get into penn for grad if you go undergrad? I also have the same question for washu</p>

<p>Basically, i'm asking about any more information about these programs, esp about job placement, quality of training, or any advice/thoughts you may have regarding these schools. I like all these schools, but I'm not entirely sure if i want to do architecture, which is why i hesitating about Rice's program. Also, does name matter THAT much? For example, in applying for an internship, will the name matter a great deal? If so, which "name" is better? </p>

<p>Thanks in advance!!</p>

2

<p>Penn and WashU are what I would consider architecture lite programs. Only two years of undergraduate studio, and both will require a 3 year MArch degree. However you will probably have a much better opportunity to explore other programs on campus.</p>

<p>Rice is a 6 year program for a BArch. 5 years of school + a 1 year preceptorship. It is architectural immersion from day one and does not leave you a lot of time to explore other majors. The Rice name is highly regarded in the profession, but even more so are the kind of firms that line up to hire Rice preceptors for a year ( Renzo Piano, OMA, KPF, SOM, etc.). Those kind of names on your resume will get a lot of attention.</p>

<p>Most schools encourage their undergrads to go elsewhere for grad school, so going to Penn will not necessarily make it easier to get into the grad program.</p>

<p>rick</p>