<p>Does anyone know anything about USC's architecture program, for example, how competitive it is? Also, does our portfolio (the one that's part of the application requirement) account for a large part in our admission? Thank you!</p>
<p>I’m pretty sure it’s gonna account for a large part. It’s also pretty competitive, Architectural Record ranked its undergrad program 10th in the nation. It helps that they’ve got their share of famous alumni. (I’m applying too)</p>
<p>You have to be admitted to USC the school first before they will even consider you in the school of architecture. Once you pass the USC admission, the school of architecture will review your application and I am sure the portfolio counts a lot. My D was admitted there last year and they actually sent her a card telling her which of her piece was most impressive.</p>
<p>The USC admission itself is quite competitive.</p>
<p>^Really? </p>
<p>I always thought that USC and their architecture school work together in the admission process. I mean, dont they at least consider your intended major?</p>
<p>Yes, at least that is what they told us. They do that for all majors, you have to pass the general university admission first. I think it is true for many schools, not just USC. If for some reason you are not accepted by the school of architecture, they will still admit you but as undecided. My friend’s son was in that situation for film school.</p>
<p>Good luck.</p>
<p>Our son attends USC in the architecture program. He is a freshman and just completed his first semester. I can tell you that he truly loves the program and his teachers. It is a very, very hard program. Unlike your peers, you will spend a good 25- 30 hours a week in design studio sketching out projects and physically building 3d models. USC throws you right into the work. The portfolio was the key to admission. They are not looking for architectual design but rather creativity and ability to think artistically and with a design aspect. The weather is great and it helps to have LA as your studio. Unlike being at a midwest campus or program, USC professors tell the students to go to the Ghetty museum, the disney concert hall and other famous landmarks and sketch them. Also, there are so many architectual firms in LA doing work in S. Cal and overseas that it seems going to USC architecture can set you up easier for an internship or job than a small school or public institution not on the coasts. </p>
<p>Good luck</p>