Do you have dreams of designing some of the world's most admirable structures? Would you like to take those designs from paper or a computer and convert your vision into a reality? By pursuing an architecture degree in the USA, you can begin the journey toward creating beautiful structures that people interact with daily. There is a nearly limitless demand for architecture professionals, which means there are plenty of outstanding architecture programs for international students like you. Are you interested in earning an architecture degree in the USA? Read on to learn how you can!
What Architecture Classes Do I Need to Take?
As an architecture student in America, you will take classes that prepare you for a career planning and designing vast arrays of structures that are safe, aesthetically pleasing, and functional. Courses within an architecture program help develop analytical aptitude, organizational proficiency, technical expertise, and creative abilities. The courses you may encounter include:
- Architectural Design History and Theory
- Building design with a focus on CADD, structures, construction methods & professional practices
- Mathematics
- Physical Sciences
- Liberal Arts
- Graphic Design
Most students continue to a graduate program to earn a master's degree in architecture. In an architecture master's degree program, students will encounter courses that provide more in-depth knowledge of the industry like:
- Architectural History
- Architectural Engineering
- Design Studio
- Design Theory
What Are the Different Concentrations for an Architecture Degree?
While a general architecture degree is the most common to seek in the industry, there may be architecture course options that cater to your specific interests and different specializations. Some architecture specializations you can focus on may include:
- Residential
- Commercial
- Environmental Design/Green Architecture
- Urban Design
- Industrial
- Interior Design/ Interior Architecture
- Landscape Architect/Urban Landscape
What U.S. College or University Should I Attend to Earn my Architecture Degree?
With more than 4,700 degree-granting institutions in the United States, there is sure to be at least one that is perfect for you! All state architectural registration boards require architecture graduates to complete a comprehensive paid internship with relevant experience and professional practice before taking the Architect Registration Examination (ARE). So you want to choose a college or university that provides internship opportunities or placements.
If you're interested in an architecture program that ensures the highest standard of excellence, check if the program has been accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). There are currently 34 states that require aspiring architects to hold a professional degree in architecture from an accredited degree program.
Also, look at a program's job placement rates to get an idea of where program alumni are working. A good program will also offer career counseling services, making it easier to find an architecture job after graduation.
