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1. Question: What courses should I take in high school to prepare for architecture or landscape architecture?

Answer: Pursue a rigorous academic program that includes honors courses (if available), and take all Advanced Placement (A.P.) exams. Take high school art, drawing and design courses to help you develop your visual thinking skills. These courses will be much better preparation than architectural drafting courses, which tend to emphasize purely mechanical skills.

To prepare for the architecture program, take upper level high school math and science courses. A general high school physics course is one of the requirements for admission to the fall architecture studio. Trigonometry and analysis courses are helpful in preparing for the landscape architecture program. Take biology, geology, geography, and horticulture courses for a better understanding of the natural environment.

2. Question: How do I prepare intellectually for the School of Architecture program?

Answer: Get into the habit of reading about, drawing, and looking at architecture and landscape architecture.

3. Question: What supplies will I need?

Answer: First year students may purchase a kit of the basic design tools for approximately $200 at the bookstore in the Student Union. You’ll need additional funds for art paper and model materials. In general, plan to budget $500 each semester for supplies. Your expenses may be less, but it’s good to be prepared!

4. Question: Should I purchase a computer before entering the School of Architecture program?

Answer: Computer-aided design is introduced in the second year of study. It is recommended that you wait until then to purchase your computer, so that you have the most up-to-date and powerful system possible. (There are computer labs across campus that you can use to complete other coursework). A document outlining computer specifications and required software will be distributed at the end of your first year of study.

Buy with an eye towards future upgrades: the School of Architecture is committed to exposing students to the most current graphic visualization technology available.

5. Question: How will I get everything done? Is it true that School of Architecture students are in studio 24/7?

Answer: We believe that students think most clearly and creatively when they are well-fed and well-rested. To help students have a life and get their work done, the School has created Leadership by Design, a program that will help them develop skills critical to professional success and personal happiness.  The school will offer mandatory workshops on time management, personal finance, stress management and self-care to first- and second-year students. Mentoring and community service opportunities also will be available.