Best Architecture Colleges in California
With its diverse architecture and urban design, the Golden State is a prime location for aspiring architects. This article provides an in-depth look at some of the best architecture colleges in California, analyzing their programs, annual costs, enrollment, and SAT ranges. We’ll also briefly cover the best architecture colleges in Oregon, New York, and Nevada, along with insights on how high SAT scores can improve your chances of college acceptance.
University of Southern California
Information About Architecture Programs
The University of Southern California (USC) in Los Angeles offers Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs through the USC School of Architecture. Students are trained in architectural design, history, and technology while being exposed to the diverse architectural landscape of Los Angeles.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost of attendance at USC is approximately $58,195, with an enrollment of around 46,000 students. The typical SAT score range for accepted students is 1350-1530.
Southern California Institute of Architecture
Information About Architecture Programs
The Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc) in Los Angeles is an independent school focused solely on architecture and design. SCI-Arc offers undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs, fostering a creative, experimental, and interdisciplinary environment.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost of attending SCI-Arc is around $48,400. SCI-Arc has a more petite student body, with enrollment typically around 500 students. There are no SAT requirements for undergraduate programs, as SCI-Arc places more emphasis on portfolio submission.
University of California – Berkeley
Information About Architecture Programs
The University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) provides architecture programs through its College of Environmental Design. The programs offer a balanced design, technology, history, and theory curriculum.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost for in-state students is about $14,253, with out-of-state students paying approximately $44,007. The university has an enrollment of over 40,000 students. The average SAT range is 1330-1530.
University of California – Los Angeles
Information About Architecture Programs
The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) offers undergraduate and graduate architecture programs through its School of the Arts and Architecture. UCLA’s programs focus on architecture as a humanistic discipline grounded in design, history, and theory.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost for in-state students is approximately $13,240, while out-of-state students pay around $42,994. UCLA has an enrollment of over 45,000 students. The typical SAT range is 1330-1530.
California Polytechnic State University
Information About Architecture Programs
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, offers an accredited Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) program. The program emphasizes a learn-by-doing approach, integrating theory with hands-on practice.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost for in-state students is about $9,943, with out-of-state students paying approximately $23,833. The university has an enrollment of over 20,000 students. The average SAT range is 1200-1400.
Woodbury University
Information About Architecture Programs
Woodbury University in Burbank offers Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs in architecture. These programs aim to prepare students for professional practice, emphasizing critical thinking, ethical responsibilities, and experimental design.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost at Woodbury University is approximately $41,932. It has an enrollment of just over 1,200 students, offering a more intimate learning environment. The average SAT range for admitted students is 900-1110.
University of San Diego
Information About Architecture Programs
The University of San Diego offers a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture and an interdisciplinary Bachelor of Architecture program. These programs aim to develop students’ design skills, critical thinking, and knowledge of sustainable practices.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost at the University of San Diego is approximately $51,186. The university has an enrollment of over 8,500 students. The average SAT range is 1200-1370.
University of San Francisco
Information About Architecture Programs
The University of San Francisco offers a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture and Community Design. This program focuses on sustainable design, social justice, and community involvement.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost at the University of San Francisco is around $52,482. The university has an enrollment of over 10,000 students. The average SAT range is 1130-1340.
California Baptist University
Information About Architecture Programs
California Baptist University in Riverside offers a Bachelor of Architecture program. This program prepares students for professional practice, integrating a faith-based perspective with architectural education.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost at California Baptist University is approximately $35,043. The university has an enrollment of over 10,000 students. The average SAT range is 1040-1250.
ArtCenter College of Design
Information About Architecture Programs
ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena offers a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Design. This program focuses on the intersection of architecture, design, and art, offering a unique perspective on spatial design.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The annual cost at ArtCenter College of Design is about $45,815. The college has an enrollment of just over 2,200 students. There are no SAT requirements, as emphasis is placed on portfolio reviews and personal essays.
Best Architecture Colleges in Three Other States
Best Architecture Colleges in Oregon
The University of Oregon’s School of Architecture and Environment stands out in Oregon. This school offers a comprehensive architecture program focusing on sustainable and community-centered design.
Best Architecture Colleges in New York
Cornell University’s College of Architecture, Art, and Planning ranks highly in New York. Offering a variety of architecture programs, Cornell is renowned for its rigorous academic curriculum and emphasis on design innovation.
Best Architecture Colleges in Nevada
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas, offers a competitive program through its School of Architecture. It emphasizes design, research, and community involvement.
How a High SAT Score Improves Chances of College Acceptance
A high SAT score significantly improves your chances of acceptance into competitive colleges. The SAT is a standardized test that allows colleges to compare academic performance and aptitude across many students. A high score demonstrates solid academic abilities, commitment, and discipline, which are traits colleges value. However, remember that a high SAT score is just one factor in the admissions process; extracurricular activities, personal essays, and letters of recommendation play essential roles.
The architecture colleges listed here represent some of the best in California and provide a wide range of programs for aspiring architects. Each institution offers unique strengths, so students should consider their career goals, learning style, and financial situation when choosing a college.
