Study architecture abroad

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Architecture degrees 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 program structure

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.

Types of architecture degrees

There are several other subjects you can study that fall under the architecture umbrella. These programs usually focus on a specific area of architecture, and include:

Architectural engineering
Architectural technology
Construction management
Environmental design
Sustainable construction
Building services engineering
Landscape architecture
Quantity surveying
Regional planning
Urban administration
Urban design
Urban development
Urban planning

You should consider studying one of these specializations if it covers an area you’re interested in, or offers more direct path into the career you want.

Why study architecture abroad

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.

Where to study architecture abroad

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.

Best countries to study architecture

There are many things to consider when working out which country is the best to study architecture. If you want the best, or most highly ranked programs, the US and UK lead the way.

There are also a number of well respected architecture schools elsewhere in Europe, with Germany, Spain and Italy all ranking highly. Asia is also home to several top architecture programs in China, Singapore and Japan among others.

If you have an interest in modern architecture, Asia boasts some of the most forward thinking new buildings in the world. Spain is also a great location that showcases the old and the new side by side. For classical architecture, Italy and other areas of Europe present an irresistible option.

- Architecture in UK
- Architecture in USA

Best universities to study architecture

When choosing which university to study architecture at, it’s important to first think about what you want the program to cover, before looking at which institutions rank highly.

Architecture programs differ in terms of want they cover, and some universities focus more on certain aspects than others. For example, some may focus more on construction and technical elements, and others may be more concerned with innovation and design. Work out the areas you’re interested in, and find a program that has a curriculum that matches your interests.

Another important factor is what the university offers outside of the classroom. Some offer things like internships and years studying abroad. Also consider what that university offers in terms of campus facilities and lifestyle.

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Architecture study abroad programs

There are a number of architecture degree options when you study abroad at undergraduate, postgraduate and doctorate levels. These include:

BA
BSc
B.Arch
M.Arch
MSc
PhD

The B.Arch is a bachelor of architecture, and is normally a five year accredited professional program that allows you to qualify as an architect. If you take a three or four year pre-professional BA or BSc degree, you’ll need to study a M.Arch in order to qualify.

In most countries you’ll also need to have at least two or three years of experience in an internship program after you’ve completed a B.Arch or M.Arch before you can qualify with an exam to complete as well.

Architecture undergraduate programs

Architecture graduate programs

Entry requirements to study architecture 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.

Future architecture careers

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.

Study architecture abroad

Find your perfect architecture programs abroad

Bachelor's programs inarchitecture

Master's programs inarchitecture

PhD programs inarchitecture

Architecture degrees abroad

Architecture program structure

Types of architecture degrees

Why study architecture abroad

Where to study architecture abroad

Best countries to study architecture

Best universities to study architecture

How we maximize your chance of studying architecture abroad

Programs matched to you

Apply online via Studee

Review, improve & submit

Reminders & guidance

Architecture study abroad programs

Architecture undergraduate programs

See all undergraduate degrees in architecture

See all undergraduate degrees in architecture

See all undergraduate degrees in architecture

See all undergraduate degrees in architecture

See all undergraduate degrees in architecture

Architecture graduate programs

See all postgraduate degrees in architecture

See all postgraduate degrees in architecture

See all postgraduate degrees in architecture

See all postgraduate degrees in architecture

Entry requirements to study architecture abroad

Degrees related to architecture, construction and planning

Future architecture careers

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