Looking for good Architecture school

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Jacob's picture
Jacob
User offline. Last seen 39 weeks 3 days ago. Offline
Joined: 11/30/2008

I'm looking into going to Architecture school, does anybody have any recommendations for me on which schools have the best programs?  Is there anything in particualr I can do to make sure i get accepted, or can to prepare for?

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Dsgnr's picture
Dsgnr
User offline. Last seen 40 weeks 21 hours ago. Offline
Joined: 12/01/2008

I guess it depends what area you are in, and if you are willing to travel. There are lots of good schools, but some things to figure out and look into.  Make sure it is accredited first of all.  Some schools are very 'theory-based', while others are less focused on that, and more on construction. So figure out what is important to you first.

Then as far as getting in goes.. they all appear to be pretty competitive.  Good grades, good portfolio, and being able to show you are passionate are all important to being accepted.

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ashley99
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Joined: 11/28/2008

Some good points.  I would recommend getting a good sketching portfolio together.  I've seen people trying to show CAD drawings and computer renderings in their portfolios to schools... but they are more interested in hand drawings in the early stages.  Computer stuff can be taught, drawing is something that takes a good amount of skill and experience.

Good Luck to you!

mustang414's picture
mustang414
User offline. Last seen 35 weeks 5 days ago. Offline
Joined: 12/01/2008

Jacob many places have lists of top programs that are pretty easy to find on the internet.  They usually do it by region as well so you can find a place nearby (if that is important to you). 

A lot of it will depend on what kind of Architecture program you are most interested in.  Yes, they do differ.  Some are more construction focused, others more theory driven.  Personal preference - avoid theory driven!

Here are 2 links i found real quick, but I am sure there are better ones out there.

http://archrecord.construction.com/features/0911BestArchSchools/0911BestArchSchools-2.asp

http://www.architectmagazine.com/educational-projects/the-top-us-architecture-schools.aspx