Hi my son is applying to BArch programs this year and would love to see some of that data. Thank you!
Hello Tennis4li - Regretfully I got rid of all of my data. It was 2 years old at this point and I missed all of these messages requesting the info. So disappointed I got rid of the info as I did intend to share it. I am happy to share my daughter’s stats and where she was accepted/waitlisted/declined and other anecdotal thoughts if you want to message me privately? And I too am a tennis player btw!
Tennis4li - just messaged you.
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My daughter is in the first year of the U Oregon architecture school. She turned down Cal Poly SLO for her spot at Oregon. Why? Oregon seems more design oriented. One clue is that Oregon asks for a portfolio for admissions, and SLO does not. Oregon is also well known for sustainability. SLO seems more tech-focused (although all students must take courses in both design and tech, but the emphasis at schools can differ). She also would like to practice in the Northwest (Portland or Seattle), so she wanted to build connections here. So far, she is very happy. Plus, Oregon is in Eugene, a fabulous college town with a strong emphasis on Pac-12 sports and all the fun that goes with it. I’m always surprised how infrequently Oregon is discussed on the architecture websites, given it’s strengths and relatively high rankings.
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@wndrer
University of New Mexico is ranked #22 in architecture.
UNM offers a BAA with 3 professional tracks leading to a MArch in the 5th year.
https://architecture.unm.edu/degree-programs/program-brochures.html
Architecture is a WUE eligible major.
Application information here:
https://architecture.unm.edu/degree-programs/program-brochures.html
A portfolio is not required.
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WayOutWestMom: I just wanted to clarify that the program at the University of New Mexico is not a professional 5-year BArch program like UOregon, but a preprofessional BA program, which then requires a 2 year graduate program in order to be a licensed architect (or 3 years, depending on the graduate program). Some people prefer the 5-year program(it’s faster and more direct ), but others prefer the 4+2 program (allows for more non-architecture courses and exploration). Personal choice. But I just wanted to clarify the difference.
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A little bit of an update for everybody who graciously helped out or may also be curious about the UO architecture process: I did get in! Same statistics, and a not-super-artsy-portfolio, and a pretty solid scholarship in there, too.
But, to answer my own question, I would not exactly consider UO’s program a safety, at least not in this climate. With only so much room in the studio, this year saw record numbers of applicants, the architecture program reaching nearly 1,000 this year. Applications for winter transfers have already been closed, and they will remain closed for the foreseeable future considering the length of the waitlist. So, you either get in above a few hundred students, or you have to choose a different path (whether it be another college or a 4+2 instead).
I did not apply to nearly as many schools as I should have; this was my one B.Arch school left in the end, which was nerve wracking as I began to realize the above info. If I could give myself or someone who is now like myself any feedback, it’d be to ignore that 80% UO acceptance rate and pick another safety – particularly one that you actually like. I’m lucky enough that it worked out, but it totally could have backfired.
Just a bit of advice for B.Arch c/o 28 and beyond, in case anyone else happens to stumble upon this!
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@wndrer Congratulations! My daughter will be applying next year. We are in Oregon. Can you share what other BArch schools you applied to? Or BS Arch? You can PM me if it’s easier.
Hi Wndrer,
Thanks for your insight, and I hope you’re loving it! My son will be applying shortly (early decision) and I’m wondering if you have any thoughts about acceptance rates for Fall 2024? He’s an unweighted 4.0 with a couple AP classes and dual credits completed. He won’t be submitting SATs and will likely have a weaker portfolio. Do you think a portfolio carries much weight? I note that it’s not even required…
Thanks in advance.
Given this is an old thread and wndrer last posted in April of last year they might not reply directly.
I have no formal knowledge of UO specifically but S23 went through the BArch search/application process last year (UO was not on his list).
I’m not sure I would consider a direct admit to a BArch program at any school a “safety”. There were 3 schools my son applied to where he was admitted to the school with an alternate program (you’re good enough to come to the school but not for BArch).
Most of the information sessions for schools that had a portfolio as optional said that “it can only help you”. That said, look at the guidelines of the portfolio (are they looking for mixed media, only sketches, etc) and let that help guide if you submit or not.
Thank you - very kind to reply, and I appreciate the boots on the ground reality! He actually put together a pretty solid portfolio, so, fingers crossed!