Study architecture abroad

Architecture is the art of designing and constructing buildings and other structures. It's a popular subject that combines elements of art and science. Although it’s regarded as a vocational subject, studying architecture abroad still opens up a number of great career opportunities.

There are many great architecture programs you can choose to study overseas at all levels including bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate.

Choosing to study abroad can be a great way to experience different architectural styles, and to see first hand how different cultures interact with the architecture around them.

Architecture is all around us, with examples and inspiration around every corner. Studying abroad gives you the enviable opportunity to see and experience another country’s architecture, perhaps different to what you'd see at home.

You’ll also be able to see how different cultures interact with the architecture around them, and how society and history influenced its style, aesthetic and functionality. This new perspective could broaden your understanding of the subject, and give you an advantage in the field.

Choosing to study architecture abroad also means you’ll expand your choice of programs and universities. This means you can ensure you study a program that matches your interests and ambitions, while experiencing a new country and way of life. You can learn more about the benefits of studying abroad here.

Architecture can be a very hands on degree, and most programs will include a lot of practical elements. Design projects make up a large part of many architecture degrees, but the exact content and scope of the curriculum will vary from university to university. Some of the topics and modules you can expect to study include:

• Design projects
• Drawing and modeling
• History of architecture
• Design technologies
• Trigonometry and algebra

If you choose to study architecture at postgraduate level, you will build on what you learned during your bachelor’s degree at a more advanced level.

Check the details of the program when you’re applying, because some are more science focused, while others spend more time developing your design skills. Look carefully at the structure of each program you’re interested in and choose the one that best suits your interests.

Coursework and projects often make up the majority of assessments for an architecture degree, but there will also be exams to take, usually in the first couple of years.

Architecture programs will involve traditional lectures, workshops, studio work and field trips. The further you progress, the more time you’ll be expected to spend independently working on projects.

There are many options when it comes to studying architecture abroad, so it can be difficult deciding on the right destination for you. Consider these questions to help you make your decision:

• Do you want to remain in the country to work as a qualified architect?

  Qualifying as an architect can take up to eight years in some countries like the US and China, where as you could qualify in six years if you study in France.

• Is there an architectural style you want to experience?

  You might want to put cities and countries and cities that feature diverse and exciting architecture at the top of your list.

• What part of the world do you want to study in?

  Think about things like climate, culture, politics and location when choosing a country to live in. For example, if you want somewhere warm, with a relaxed culture that’s only a short journey home.

For more help on making your decision, read our guide on choosing where to study abroad.

To be admitted onto an architecture program you’ll need to meet the university’s entry requirements. These will be different based on the country and university you’re applying to, standard requirements include:

• Completed secondary education with good grades in relevant subjects, for example some insist on mathematics or a science subject
• A portfolio of work
• A personal statement that outlines your interest in the architecture
• Satisfactory English language proficiency test scores
• Academic references
• A bachelor’s degree (BA or BSc) in architecture to study at postgraduate level

Look closely at the requirements of the programs you’re interested in to see what you need to provide, and what grades or GPA you need.

The process of application will also differ depending on where you apply to. Some countries use a centralized application service (like UCAS in the UK), and in many other countries you’ll need to apply directly to the university. Here is more on how to study abroad.

Architecture has a has a strong vocational link, with many students going into the subject to become an architect. However, there are a number of other fields and career paths an architecture degree can open up, including:

• Building conservation
• Building technology and management
• Town planning
• Interior design
• Civil engineering
• Structural engineering
• Production design
• Construction
• Planning and development
• Property and estate management

Think about what career you want before you start applying for programs. Your chosen career may influence what type of degree you need to choose, for example, to become a qualified architect, you need to study a B.Arch, or a BA and an M.Arch, which can take between five and seven years.