Information for Prospective Architecture Students
About Studying Architecture at Columbia University as an Undergraduate Student
Our department is the home of undergraduate studies in architecture at Columbia University and is jointly shared by multiple colleges.
Students enrolled at any of the undergraduate colleges, including Columbia College, Barnard College, and The School of General Studies, can declare a major or minor in architecture through our department, while those at Columbia Engineering can pursue a minor.
When applying to study architecture at Columbia University, prospective students can apply to whichever undergraduate college they prefer. Upon admission, they can begin taking courses in our department and pursue a major or minor in architecture.
The Application Process
Our department does not review applications or play a role in admissions. Questions regarding your application or the admissions and financial aid processes can be directed to the following offices:
Columbia College: Office of Undergraduate Admissions
Barnard College: Office of Admissions
The School of General Studies: Office of Admissions
Columbia Engineering: Office of Admissions
Those interested in pursuing a graduate degree in architecture should visit the Columbia Graduate School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation website instead.
About a Liberal Arts Education in Architecture
Barnard College, Columbia College, and the School of General Studies are all liberal arts colleges that confer a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree upon graduation. Columbia Engineering offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree and a combined plan for students to earn both a BA and a BS. Students from these colleges who are interested in studying architecture do so within our department, where they can pursue a major or minor in architecture.
When applying to schools, we recommend that prospective students research the various types of undergraduate degrees in architecture to help determine the path that best aligns with their goals. The three main undergraduate degrees in architecture include:
Bachelor of Arts in Architecture (BA) – Our program’s degree type, which is typically completed in four years, combines architectural studies with a broad liberal arts curriculum. This approach emphasizes critical thinking about architecture’s societal role and equips students with a strong intellectual foundation to explore the evolving field of architectural practice. The Bachelor of Arts in Architecture must be followed by a professional degree to pursue licensure and is an excellent platform for future graduate studies in architecture and related fields.
Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) – Typically a five-year program, this degree type provides comprehensive architectural training and is the most direct path to becoming a licensed architect without requiring a graduate degree. The degree is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board and contains the required academic coursework to pursue internship, and eventually, licensure.
Bachelor of Science in Architecture (BSc) – This pre-professional degree is typically a four-year program with an emphasis on the technical aspects of architecture. Since this degree type is not NAAB-accredited, it must be followed by a professional degree to pursue licensure.
About Studying Architecture in New York City
Our program engages deeply with New York City, using it as a living laboratory for design and research projects. Students are introduced to the social, political, and environmental complexities of architectural design and urbanism, with New York City serving as a key reference point.
Additionally, many of our students further expand their education by interning at architecture firms or related organizations and institutions during their undergraduate years.