30 Most Affordable Bachelor’s in Architecture for 2020

Great Value Colleges - Most Affordable

A bachelor’s in Architecture focuses on the design and development of the built environment and teaches aspiring architects to be responsible stewards of aesthetics, design, and sustainable environmental concerns. Leading schools offer pre-professional and first professional degrees in architecture. These encompass broad topics of sites, materiality, program, structural systems, human interconnectedness, modern technologies, and social interaction.

The Bachelor’s in Architecture as a professional degree is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). These NAAB-accredited B.Arch. programs must include at least 150 semester credit hours and prepare students to qualify for the Architect Registration Examination (ARE). Increasing integration between technology, architecture, and the environment has paved the way for modern curricula that focuses on sustainable designs.

Some of the undergraduate degrees in architecture mentioned here are:

  • Bachelor’s of Architecture
  • BS in Architecture
  • B.A. in Architecture
  • BS in Interior Architecture
  • BFA in Interior Architecture
  • BFA in Architecture
  • BS in Landscape Architecture
  • Bachelor of Science in Architecture and Environmental Design (BSAED)
  • BSD in Architectural Studies
  • B.S. Architectural Studies
  • B.A. in Architectural Studies

Universities that offer non-accredited, pre-professional degrees in architecture include programs like Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies (B.A.Arch.), Bachelor of Science in Architecture (B.S.Arch.), or Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies. Once they earn their bachelor’s degrees, students need to enroll in a Master of Architecture (M.Arch) program to be professionally licensed in their respective states.

Typically, the Bachelor’s in Architecture curriculum includes practical courses on structures, building mechanical systems, electrical systems, plumbing, and construction, along with studio courses on design and aesthetic theory. Students use their drawings and renderings through computer-aided design or drafting by hand to build physical models and create presentation boards for illustrations and graphics.

Methodology

The most significant factors to determine which college is a good fit, students need to look at the cost, quality of the program, return on investment, and accreditation. Our research was based on each school’s website and other reputable college ranking sites (like U.S. News, The Princeton Review, Niche, etc.).

In this ranking, we have gone through the schools that offer a bachelor’s in Architecture and shortlisted 30 for the most affordable programs. Schools were then independently analyzed and awarded points based on the following factors:

Tuition (as reported by the NCES)

  • Net Price Below $10,000: 4 points
  • Net Price Below $15,000: 3 points
  • Net Price Below $20,000: 2 points
  • Net Price Below $25,000: 1 point

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

  • Less than 20:1: 1 point
  • Less than 15: 1: 2 points
  • Less than 10: 1: 3 points

Return on Investment (ROI) According to Payscale.com

  • Top 500: 1 point
  • Top 300: 2 points
  • Top 150: 3 points

School and Program Quality: 1 point per item

Student Support Network: 1 point per item

Concentrations/Specializations: 1 point per item

Campus Diversity Support Network: 1 point per item

Wow Factor: 1 point awarded for each unique feature or program that “wowed” us

 

#30 University of Houston

Houston, Texas

Bachelor of Architecture

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1

ROI ( College Factual): 8.2%

Website

Points: 8

The University of Houston offers a Bachelor of Architecture via its Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture & Design. The 160 semester credit hour curriculum leads to a five-year professional degree that enables students to pursue licensure as well as advanced studies in the field. Accredited through the National Architectural Accrediting Board(NAAB), the program offers students access to resources involving research, building, and community components so that they can build their skills to succeed in the field of architecture. The curriculum emphasizes sustainability, inquiry, critical thinking, and technology.

Average tuition per semester credit hour: $398.2

#29 University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Bachelor of Science in Architecture

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1

ROI ( College Factual): 9.7%

Website
Points: 9

The University of Michigan offers a Bachelor of Science in Architecture via the A. Alfred Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning. The 124 credit-hour curriculum blends interactive studios, lectures, and seminars to reinforce the students’ analytical and conceptual problem-solving skills. The blend of undergraduate architecture and liberal arts culminates into a pre-professional Bachelor of Science degree (B.S.) in Architecture. Most students pursue graduate studies in a professional Master of Architecture program, which further prepares them for architectural licensure. Graduates go on to work in architecture firms or other related design occupations.

Average tuition per year: $15,687

#28 University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Charlotte, North Carolina

Bachelor of Arts in Architecture

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1

ROI (College Factual): 7.9%

Website

Points: 9

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers a Bachelor’s in Architecture that is accredited by the National Architecture Association Board. The 128 credit hours of coursework leads to a four-year, pre-professional foundational degree and can be complemented with the one-year Bachelor of Architecture or the Master of Architecture for students who are leaning towards a professional degree. Students are prepared for graduate steadies and to become certified as architects. A combination of classroom learning with studio work helps them learn about the different aspects of the field and equips them with in-depth knowledge to make a difference in architectural design.

Average tuition per credit: $476.50

#27 University of Minnesota

Twin Cities- Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota

Bachelor of Science in Architecture

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1

ROI (College Factual): 8.2%

Website

Points: 10

The University of Minnesota offers a Bachelor of Science in Architecture, a pre-professional degree that introduces students to the diverse influences shaping constructed environments. The 120-credit curriculum offers studio-based design education and a rigorous program of history, theory, and building technology courses. Students go on to work in a range of professional environments and also apply for the two-year Master of Architecture (M. Arch) degree program. Students develop design processes in the studio courses, which leads to superior visual literacy and design thinking skills. They explore sustainability and resilience in technology courses, research historical precedents, and theoretical texts in history and theory seminars and learn spatial representation through analog and digital drawing.

Average tuition per year: $15,236

#26 Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, Virginia

Bachelor of Architecture

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1

ROI (College Factual): 8.3%

Website

Points: 10

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University offers a STEM Designated Bachelor of Architecture that blends foundational and core courses with a thesis and advanced studies. The five-year professional degree is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board. In their freshman year, students focus on the basic elements of design and how to address them conceptually, visually, and haptically. In their second and third years, they focus on the core of the professional program that draws from theory and processes to help students engage with concepts of Architecture and design. In their fourth year, students focus on studio work and also have the option of studying abroad. In their fifth year, they work on their thesis project.

Average tuition per year: $13,691

#25 University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, Wisconsin

Bachelor of Science in Interior Architecture

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1

ROI (College Factual): 7.4%

Website

Points: 10

The University of Wisconsin-Madison offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Interior Architecture that emphasizes the process and communication of design and helps develop students’ creativity in the design and planning of interior spaces. The four-year professional program is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA). It prepares students for advanced studies in the field through coursework, design review, and student mentoring by an expert faculty. Students learn to integrate the art of design with the social and the physical sciences, the history of design, and gain deep insight into professional practice through internship experiences.

Average tuition per year: $10,746

#24 Arizona State University

Tempe, Arizona

BSD in Architectural Studies

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1

ROI (College Factual): 8%

Website

Points: 11

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Arizona State University offers a BSD in Architectural Studies via the Herberger Institute for Design & the Arts. The affordable 8-semester program requires sequential completion of studio coursework that teaches them to design sustainable and aesthetically pleasing buildings. The curriculum blends the concepts of aesthetics and the science and technology of building with an understanding of people’s needs. Students develop foundational knowledge and skills in architectural design, landscape architecture, building technology, and professional practice. It is known as one of the top schools for architectural studies.

Average tuition per semester: $5,355

#23 Georgia Institute of Technology

Atlanta, Georgia

Bachelor of Science in Architecture (B.S. Arch)

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1

ROI (College Factual): 8.3%

Website

Points: 11

Georgia Institute of Technology offers a Bachelor of Science in Architecture that blends design, history, theory, and communication to provide a comprehensive education in architecture. The rigorous curriculum encourages students to think critically, learn about technology in all areas of architecture, and apply the same in their work. It also includes a flexible design studio that provides students with an interdisciplinary approach to learning with other schools at Georgia Tech. The 124-credit program also consists of an intensive International Plan that provides students with the opportunity to take globally focused courses, become proficient in a foreign language, and study abroad.

Average tuition per year: $10,566

#22 University of Washington-Seattle

Seattle, Washington

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Architecture

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1

ROI (College Factual): 7.7%

Website

Points: 11

The University of Washington offers a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture that is designed for students who meet the general requirements for undergrads as well as the Architecture prerequisites. The 179 credit curriculum provides students with a liberal arts foundation and the tools to study the discipline of architecture in diverse ways. The program encourages students to engage with others in discourse so that they gain a comprehensive knowledge of the complex and multifaceted discipline. The coursework covers topics like spatial reasoning, political and economic structures, aesthetics, socio-cultural influences, ecology, urbanism, among others. Students have a choice of 3 concentrations like History and Theory, Sustainable Development or Materials, and Making.

Average tuition per credit: $475.75

#21 University of Texas at San Antonio

San Antonio, Texas

BS in Architecture

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 25:1

ROI (College Factual): 7.8%

Website

Points: 11

The University of Texas at San Antonio offers a BS in Architecture that is designed for students wishing to pursue a Master of Architecture and professional certification. They are well-prepared for the accredited Master of Architecture (M.Arch.) program at UTSA, which eventually leads them to the certification for architectural registration and professional practice by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB). The 121-credit hour is one of the most affordable in the country and offers a studio-based course of study which blends research and design projects along with regular course work. Students learn in an environment of dialogue and discovery that helps them delve deep into the subject and gain in-depth knowledge. Students learn about material conditions, technology, graphic design, pragmatic concerns, among others.

Average tuition per year: $10,154

#20 University of Kansas

Lawrence, Kansas

B.A. in Architectural Studies

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1

ROI (College Factual): 7.8%

Website

Points: 12

The University of Kansas offers a B.A. in Architectural Studies that exposes students to modern ideas and practices in architecture along with essential business, communications, and organizational skills. The 124-credit program delivers foundational knowledge for students who wish to specialize in architecture and related disciplines in design, planning, and construction of the built environment. Most students go on to pursue a professionally accredited Master of Architecture degree to become licensed architects. Enhanced by a broad knowledge of architecture, Bachelor’s degree holders are also prepared for graduate education in many other fields such as law, government, facility management, business, and public administration.

Average tuition per year: $10,092

#19 West Virginia University

Morgantown, West Virginia

BS in Landscape Architecture

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1

ROI (College Factual): 8.3%

Website

Points: 12

West Virginia University offers a BS in Landscape Architecture that provides students with a strong understanding of the design and technical processes intrinsic to the field. The professionally accredited Bachelor’s in Architecture and Environmental Design program teaches them how to create a beautiful and functional space through various practical projects done in collaboration with the forest resources management, horticulture association, various tourism resources, parks, and recreations. Accredited by the Landscape Architectural Accreditation Board, the 124 credit program gives them a comprehensive knowledge of the field and a variety of research opportunities and become student members of the American Planning Association and the American Society of Landscape Architects.

Average tuition per credit: $417

#18 Texas Tech University

El Paso, Texas

Bachelor of Science in Architecture ( BS Arch)

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1

ROI (College Factual): 8.8%

Website

Points: 12

Texas Tech University offers a Bachelor of Science in Architecture that provides students with a comprehensive knowledge of architecture, construction, and all other related industries. The 124-credit hour program covers foundational theories and concepts of architecture and prepares students for graduate-level study. Along with theory, classroom lectures, and research, students also get to learn from field-specific organizations on campus, including the Knights of Architecture, Tau Sigma Delta, the American Institute of Architecture Students, and the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students. In their fourth year, students also have an amazing opportunity to study abroad in exotic places like in South America, Europe, and Asia, to complete requirements for architecture.

Average tuition per credit: $293

#17 Indiana State University

Terre Haute, Indiana

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture Design

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1

ROI (College Factual): 8.4%

Website

Points: 12

Indiana State University offers an affordable Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture Design that holds triple accreditation from the Council for Interior Design Accreditation, the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, and the National Kitchen and Bath Association. The well-rounded program blends theory, research, classroom lectures with practical, real-world learning opportunities. The comprehensive program requires 122 credit hours for completion, along with a sophomore portfolio review and a senior thesis for graduation. The BFA in Architecture prepares students to become successful members of the International Interior Design Association, the American Society of Interior Designers, and the National Kitchen and Bathroom Association.

Average tuition per year: $9036

#16 Oklahoma State University

Stillwater, Oklahoma

Bachelor of Architecture

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1

ROI (College Factual): 8.1%

Website

Points: 12

Oklahoma State University offers a Bachelor of Architecture degree via its College of Engineering, Architecture & Technology. It provides students with a well-rounded studio-based education, one of the best in the nation. The five-year NAAB-accredited degree is designed for students who wish to enter the professional practice of architecture. The 154-semester hour curriculum blends core areas of emphasis in architectural history and theory, technology, and architectural management with studio-based learning. Students and faculty work together in an intensive setting where specialized study and knowledge is synthesized with design and integrated with computer applications.

Average tuition per semester: $4,509

#15 University of Maine at Augusta

Augusta, Maine

Bachelor of Architecture

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 32:1

ROI (Payscale): 7%

Website

Points: 12

The University of Maine at Augusta offers a Bachelor of Architecture via its College of Arts & Sciences. The program requires 150 credit hours of coursework for completion. The rigorous curriculum includes a variety of courses and concentrations that helps students tailor their degrees and prepare for graduate study in the architectural field. They are required to complete a portfolio along with their coursework and also participate in an apprenticeship program. As they work on their undergraduate thesis, they are encouraged to take on an architectural travel experience for more hands-on learning. Architecture Students who earn less than a C- grade in their freshman year will be dismissed from the program and will be required to reapply for admission.

Average tuition per year: $10,154

#14 University of Utah

Salt Lake City, Utah

B.S. Architectural Studies

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1

ROI (College Factual): 7.4%

Website

Points: 13

The University of Utah offers a B.S. in Architectural Studies via its School of Architecture. The 122-credit hour curriculum is designed to help students build fundamental knowledge of architecture through two two-year programs of study. The program blends general education, with strong foundational courses in the graphic, technical, and design areas of architecture. As a design-centered curriculum, it involves a highly-focused study of architecture with innovation and engagement at the forefront of its mission. It also includes consistent studio exploration with substantial digital work, technologies, and methods of making buildings, along with the history and theory of architecture.

Average tuition per year: $8,952

#13 Mississippi State University

Starkville, Mississippi

Bachelor of Architecture

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1

ROI (College Factual): 8%

Website

Points: 13

Mississippi State University offers a Bachelor of Architecture that blends theory and practice through hands-on, studio-based learning in a synthesized design-studio sequence. The studio curriculum is broken into three parts that include the pre-professional program in the first year, the professional core from the second to fourth year, and the transition to professional practice in the fifth. A total of 152 credit hours are required for degree completion that includes four areas of study like Design, History/Theory, Technology, and Professional Practice. Students have 24/7 access to their own studio space on the main campus for the first four years. In their final year, students spend their time at the Stuart C. Irby, Jr., Studios in downtown Jackson.

Average tuition per year: $8,910

#12 SUNY College of Technology at Alfred

Alfred, New York

Bachelor of Architecture

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1

ROI (College Factual): 8.8%

Website

Points: 13

SUNY College of Technology at Alfred offers an affordable Bachelor of Architecture degree that is fully accredited by the National Architecture Accreditation Board. The 157-credit hour curriculum takes about five years for completion. Students have the option to choose from six concentrations and further tailor their degree. These concentrations include business, visual communication, information technology, construction, and sustainability. Students need to complete a portfolio along with meeting the specific requirements for each cognate area. The comprehensive curriculum prepares students to be creative, well rounded, and socially responsible architects who can design meaningful and inspirational spaces. They are also for licensure and advanced degrees.

Average tuition per year: $8,852

#11 University of Idaho

Moscow, Idaho

B.S. in Architecture

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1

ROI (College Factual): 8.5%

Website

Points: 13

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The University of Idaho offers a B.S. in Architecture, which offers students the option to complete their entire degree in Moscow or complete the first two years in Boise before transferring to the Moscow campus. The 124-credit program prepares students for a variety of industry-related opportunities that do not require licensure. Along with general core requirements, the program also provides architecture foundations, pre-professional B.S. Arch studies. Professional architecture in the third year, culminating in prep for graduate studies in the final year. A complete undergraduate studio sequence, a 3.0 GPA, and competitive applications determine the application to graduate school.

Average tuition per year: $8,304

#10 Iowa State University

Ames, Iowa

Bachelor of Architecture (BArch)

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1

ROI (College Factual): 8.7%

Website

Points: 13

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Iowa State University offers a Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) degree that provides foundational knowledge about architecture and sustainable practices. The five-year professional degree requires 168 credits for completion. Students are prepared to become licensed, registered architects who can design buildings for private, public, and institutional use. They are also prepared for continued study in a graduate program. It is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). The internships have domestic and international placement options, which leads to global built environment knowledge. Design studios and studio culture form the basis of the program, which enhances knowledge and reinforces the impact of architecture on the human condition, culture, and landscape.

Average tuition per semester: $4,021

#9 South Dakota State University

Brookings, South Dakota

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Architecture

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1

ROI (College Factual): 8.7%

Website

Points: 14

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South Dakota State University offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Architecture that combines practical and business aspects of the field along with the essential design and planning process of architecture. The 120 credit hours of coursework offers a cross-disciplinary approach with studio-based learning and pre-professional and professional requirements for the degree. Accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board, it teaches students the history and philosophy of architecture with strong technical knowledge. The interactive curriculum is haptic and performance-based, which ensures that students are involved in problem-solving experiences in all major areas of professional practice.

Average tuition per credit: $262.60

#8 Morgan State University

Baltimore, Maryland

Bachelor of Science in Architecture and Environmental Design (BSAED)

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1

ROI (College Factual): 8%

Website

Points: 14

Morgan State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and Environmental Design (BSAED) that prepares students for diverse careers in the fields of architecture and environmental design. The four-year pre-professional degree program requires a 120-credit hour for completion. Students gain a deep understanding of the skills needed for designing a built environment through a balanced course of study that draws on science, technology, humanities, and the arts. Design studio courses form the core of the program, which includes courses in graphic skills, history, technology, and theories of the built environment. They are prepared for entry-level positions in the field as well as for advanced graduate studies.

Average tuition per year: $7,636

#7 University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Bachelor of Arts in Architecture (BAA)

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1

ROI (College Factual): 5.1%

Website

Points: 14

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The University of New Mexico offers a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture (BAA) degree that has three concentrations – Pre-Professional Architecture, Design Studies, and Landscape Architecture. Accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), each concentration, when combined with the core program, requires 120 credits for completion. The first one prepares students for a two-year professionally accredited Master of Architecture (M.Arch.) degree and to become a licensed architect. The flexible design studies concentration prepares graduates for varied careers while the third option prepares them for advanced studies like a Master of Landscape Architecture program so that they can become professionally accredited and practice.

Average tuition per year: $7,556

#6 University of the District of Columbia

Washington, D.C.

BS in Architecture

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1

ROI (Payscale): 6%

Website

Points: 14

University of the District of Columbia offers a BS in Architecture via the Department of Architecture and Urban Sustainability. The 120-credit hour curriculum blends classroom lectures with design studios to help students gain both foundational knowledge and practical skills. The affordable program prepares students for graduate studies in architecture as well as environmental design. Courses include architecture and planning graphics, materials & methods of construction, architectural studio, environmental systems, history & theory of architecture, the theory of structures, professional ethics & practice and advanced composition. Simulation, among others. The schools aim to provide research-based academic and community outreach programs for all its students.

Average tuition per semester: $3696

#5 CUNY City College

New York, New York

Bachelor of Architecture

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1

ROI (College Factual): 7.9%

Website

Points: 14

CUNY City College offers a Bachelor of Architecture via the Bernard and Anne Spitzer School of Architecture. The five-year first professional degree is a full-time course designed for students who want to learn to design individual and complex groups of buildings. The 160-credit hour program helps them gain an in-depth knowledge of architectural history and explore the built environment. The affordable program helps students meet the educational requirements needed to become licensed architects as well as to pursue graduate studies. The curriculum blends lectures, research, design studios, practicum, portfolio reviews, and various study abroad opportunities to ensure comprehensive global learning.

Average tuition per year: $6,930

#4 California State Polytechnic University at Pomona

Pomona, California

Bachelor of Architecture(B.Arch.)

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 25:1

ROI (College Factual): 8.3%

Website

Points: 15

California State Polytechnic University at Pomona offers a Bachelor of Architecture degree that is designed for students who have been admitted to the Department of Architecture and are designated Architecture majors. The 150-unit curriculum requires five years for completion. Focused on the studio sequence and the design laboratory, the program consists of four segments that include three-semester topic studios, three-year essential core, and a two-semester long culminating senior project. Courses include Architecture Theory and History, Professional Practice, Human Behavior, Programming, Building Technology, Sustainability, Codes, and Digital Media, along with Structures. The strong focus on studio work prepares students for a successful career in architecture.

Average tuition per year: $6,500

#3 Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw, Georgia

Bachelor of Architecture

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1

ROI: No information found

Website

Points: 15

Kennesaw State University offers a Bachelor of Architecture program that is fully accredited by the National Architecture Association Board. The five-year, first professional degree is designed to lead into licensure in the field. The 150 credit hours of coursework fulfills the educational requirements to sit for the Architectural Registration Exam. The affordable Bachelor of Architecture program requires students to take a series of studio sequences, complete an undergraduate thesis for graduation and a portfolio. They gain a holistic foundation of architecture education and training, along with a thorough understanding of how various aspects of the field are informed by each other.

Average tuition per credit: $185.40

#2 Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, Florida

Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.)

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1

ROI (College Factual): 7.8%

Website

Points: 15

Florida Atlantic University offers a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) that is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board. The five-year, first professional degree prepares students for the profession of architecture through an interdisciplinary approach. The 159-credit curriculum includes courses like Architectural Design, Pre-Modern Architecture History and Theory, Architectural Structures, Environmental Technology, Introduction to Digital Modeling, and Documentation, among others. FAU offers some unique opportunities like studying abroad and the option to complete the Bachelor of Arts and the Master of Urban and Regional Planning as a dual degree.

Average tuition per credit: $203.29

#1 Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

Tallahassee, Florida

Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.)

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1

ROI (College Factual): 8%

Website

Points: 16

Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University offers a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) degree that is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board. The four-year, pre-professional program meets the educational requirements to become a registered architect. The affordable program requires 120 credit hours for completion and prepares students for graduate studies. The curriculum is composed of design studios, lecture classes, professional practice classes, building technology classes, programming classes, and electives. The blend of classroom instructions with hands-on learning via studio-based projects prepares students for the practice of architecture.

Average tuition per year: $4,554

More About the Bachelor of Architecture Degree

What does a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture entail?

The bachelor’s degree is the first professional degree in architecture. The program typically ranges from 4-5 years and is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). It provides the foundation for students to pursue a successful career in architecture or related fields. Students not only develop their drawing and design techniques but learn to do it with the environment and their community in mind. Bachelor’s degree holders may choose to enter the workforce following their internships in an architectural firm into entry-level roles. Most students, however, go on to pursue further education by earning a Master of Architectural Studies or Management degree for eventual licensing as an architect.

What are the Career Options for a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture?

A Bachelor of Architecture degree program prepares students for varied careers. Here’s a quick glimpse at some:
• Architectural Designer
• Architect Assistant
• Landscape Architect
• Municipal and Counting Planner
• Licensed Architect
• Urban or Town Planner
• Drafter
• Design Journalist
• Lead Designer
• Project Engineer
• Design Consultant
• 3D Architectural Designer

How do you get a bachelor’s in architecture?

High school graduates who aspire to become architects can pursue a Bachelor of Architecture (B. Arch.) program. While the Pre-professional bachelor’s degree takes four years to complete, the professional (B. Arch.) typically takes five years to complete.

Career Prospects and Salary with a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in architecture will grow eight %through 2028, a faster than average growth. The average salary for professionals in architecture is $79,380 per year, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What courses are typically taught in a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture?

Architecture is an interdisciplinary field that encompasses subjects like history, architecture, theory, technology, law, design, coding, and economics. Subdisciplines in the area include environmental design, interior design, landscape architecture, and regional and urban planning.
One of the essential aspects of the architecture program is the design studio. Design studios are used for design as well as research purposes. Students are required to take on at least three or four design studios, which give them the practical experience needed for a professional architecture degree. Here they learn to blend theories and concepts taught in the classroom with applied learning. Students also start building their senior thesis or project in their design studios.
Licensing and restoration information professionals must be registered as architects in the United States. Students that move on to pursue graduate studies can appear for their licensing exams, which vary from state to state. The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards is the professional licensing association for architects in America.
Most states for licensure exams require a professional undergraduate and a master’s degree.

What is the Difference Between a Pre-Professional and a First Professional Degree?

At the undergraduate level, Architecture students can choose between a pre-professional and a first professional degree.
Pre-professional degrees include the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, and Bachelor of Science. These programs provide students with a foundational knowledge of architecture but have fewer practical experiences. Students who wish to become registered architects will have to pursue advanced degrees to meet the education requirements set forth by the Registration Boards.
The Bachelor of Architecture is the only type of professional degree and is generally a five-year program that has a minimum of 150 credit hours of coursework. Graduates are prepared to sit for the Architecture Registration Exam and move to earn their license.

List of professional organizations for architects:

• American Design Drafting Association (ADDA)
• American Institute of Architects (AIA) is the
• American Institute of Architectural Students (AIAS)
• American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI)
• American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA)
• Association of Architecture Organizations (AAO)
• Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA)
• Association of Licensed Architects (ALA)
• Society of American Registered Architects (SARA).
• Society of Architectural Historians (SAH)
• Stained Glass Association of America (SGAA)
• The National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB)
• The Council for Interior Design Qualifications (CIDQ)
• The Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards (CLARB)
• Federation of Associations of Regulatory Boards (FARB)
• International Code Council (ICC)
• The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES)
• The National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA)
• Society for Design Administration (SDA)

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