12 Best Architecture Schools in the US 2025

Are you dreaming of becoming the future Frank Lloyds Wright and I.M. Peis? Want to build those designing skyscrapers that pierce the clouds or museums that inspire awe? Worry not! Get ready to transform your passion for design into reality. From studios that buzz with creativity to renowned architects themselves, the top architecture schools in the US will equip you with the skills to shape the world around you. So, grab your drafting pencils and bring out your inner architectural genius!

12 Best Architecture Schools in the US

Get ready to sketch your way to a future filled with innovation, creativity, and maybe even a lightsaber (okay, not that last part, but the dream lives on!). We've compiled a list of the top architecture schools in US, with their QS rankings, and must-try courses. While the US has some of the best architecture universities in the world, we’ll explore these 12 architectural powerhouses and find the perfect fit for your design aspirations in this guide on the best architecture schools in US.

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Location: 77 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
QS Ranking: #1
Tuition Fees: $50,000 to $60,000
Best Courses: Architecture, Architecture Design Studio II, Science in Art and Design
Website: MIT
Admission Requirements: SAT: 1500–1570, ACT: 34–36, GPA: 3.9+, TOEFL: 100+

Did you know that MIT, in Massachusetts, isn’t just about technology? In the 2024–2025 academic year, the School of Architecture and Planning enrolled 246 undergraduate students across its programs, with 23 students majoring in Architecture (Course IV) and 10 in Architecture (Course IV-B). The school is famous for its innovative curriculum, including design, technology, and urban planning, boasting faculty who have received prestigious awards. Graduates benefit from strong industry connections and excellent placement opportunities in leading global architecture firms like Skidmore, Gensler, and Perkins&Will.

A student going to this university said, "MIT offers a perfect balance of rigorous technical training and creative exploration. The resources and faculty are unparalleled, and the collaborative environment pushes you to excel in ways you never imagined."(Source- )

2. Harvard University

Location: Cambridge, MA, United States
QS Ranking: #4
Tuition Fees: $60,000 to $70,000
Best Courses: The Architectural Imagination, Design Speculations, Landscape Architecture
Website: Harvard
Admission Requirements: SAT: 1480–1570, ACT: 33–35, GPA: 3.8, TOEFL: 100+

Harvard comes under the list of the best landscape architecture schools. The curriculum includes design innovation, historical analysis, and future-focused thinking. The graduates often secure placements at prestigious firms like Gensler, Skidmore, and Owings & Merrill (SOM). The Master of Architecture (M.Arch) program typically enrolls around 100 new students per year, with a curriculum designed to integrate design innovation, historical analysis, and future-forward thinking. Learn more about Harvard University acceptance rate here.

A student going to this university said, "Harvard GSD challenges you to think critically and creatively about architecture. The diversity of ideas, access to global networks, and cutting-edge resources make it an extraordinary place to study."(Source- Reddit)

3. University of California, Berkeley (UCB)

Location: Berkeley, CA, United States
QS Ranking: #17
Tuition Fees: $45,000 to $55,000
Best Courses: Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Environmental Planning
Website: UCB
Admission Requirements: SAT: 1400–1550, ACT: 31–34, GPA: 3.7+, TOEFL: 90+

If you’re looking for the best architecture schools in the US that blend creativity with innovation, UCB is the place for you. UC Berkeley’s architecture program is popular for its sustainable design focus and curriculum, which includes critical thinking about society's role in design. The university’s achievements include awards like the 2025 ACSA Creative Achievement Award and the Great Berkeley Prize. Graduates find placements in top firms such as Gensler, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), and Perkins&Will. For more detailed information about UC Berkeley's architecture program, including admission requirements and course offerings, you can visit the College of Environmental Design's official website

A university student said, "Berkeley fosters a culture of innovation and activism in architecture. The program encourages you to think about the social and environmental impact of design while providing access to some of the best resources and faculty in the field."(Source-Reddit)

4. Columbia University

Location: New York, NY 10027, United States
QS Ranking: #18
Tuition Fees: $60,000 to $70,000
Best Courses: Advanced Architectural Design, Urban Design, Modern Building Technology
Website: Columbia
Admission Requirements: SAT: 1480–1570, ACT: 33–35, GPA: 3.8+, TOEFL: 100+

Did you know Columbia University’s architecture program is situated right in the heart of NYC? Columbia University is one of the best architecture schools in the US. The university’s GSAPP Master of Architecture (M.Arch) program emphasizes architectural experimentation, design innovation, and advanced technological skills. Graduates find placements at leading firms such as Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), and Perkins&Will, benefiting from strong career support and industry connections.

A student going to this university said, "Columbia GSAPP pushes the boundaries of what architecture can be. The faculty are visionaries, and the program's location in New York City offers endless opportunities for networking and exposure to real-world projects."(Source-Reddit)

5. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Location: Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
QS Ranking: #22
Tuition Fees: $45,000 to $55,000
Best Courses: Urban Design, Projections, Histories of Architecture and Urbanism
Website: UCLA
Admission Requirements: SAT: 1380–1540, ACT: 30–34, GPA: 3.7+, TOEFL: 90+

UCLA offers an unparalleled experience in Los Angeles, a global design and cultural hotspot. The curriculum includes sustainability, technology, and cultural context. Graduates often secure placements at top firms like Gensler, Perkins&Will, and Skidmore. Some achievements of the university include the 2023 AIA National Architecture Award for the modernization of Pritzker Hall, AIA LA Design Awards. This university is being recognized as one of the best architecture schools in the US.

A student attending this university said, "UCLA offers a dynamic and experimental environment for architecture students. The program encourages creativity and innovation while leveraging the diverse cultural and architectural landscape of Los Angeles."(Source-Reddit)

6. Cornell University

Location: Ithaca, NY 14850, United States
QS Ranking: #29
Tuition Fees: $58,000 to $65,000
Best Courses: Advanced Architectural Design, Architectural Science, Landscape Architecture
Website: Cornell
Admission Requirements: SAT: 1460–1560, ACT: 32–35, GPA: 3.8+, TOEFL: 100+

Cornell University is a powerhouse in architecture education and is considered one of the best architecture schools in the US. Did you know it’s one of the few Ivy League schools offering a fully accredited architecture program? Cornell’s architecture program is famous for its creative and critical design practices, with numerous student academic awards like the AIA Henry Adams Medal. The curriculum focuses on sustainable design, history, and technology. Graduates secure placements at Perkins&Will, Gensler, and Skidmore.

A student going to this university said: "Cornell’s architecture program is both challenging and rewarding. The blend of theory and hands-on design, combined with access to incredible faculty and resources, makes it one of the best places to study architecture."(Source-Reddit)

7. Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)

Location: North Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30332, United States
QS Ranking: #88
Tuition Fees: $15,000 to $25,000
Best Courses: Fundamentals of Design, City and Regional Planning, Media + Modelling
Website: Georgia Tech
Admission Requirements: SAT: 1390–1530, ACT: 31–35, GPA: 3.5+, TOEFL: 95+

Looking for top architecture schools in US that combine architecture and technology? Georgia Tech is the answer. Georgia Institute of Technology's Master of Architecture (M.Arch.) program is a STEM-designated professional practice program that leads to licensure in architecture. Georgia Tech boasts multiple sustainability and design awards, including the 2023 AIA Award for the Kendeda Building. Graduates often secure placements in top firms such as HOK, Perkins & Will, and Glenser. It is fully accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB).

A student going to this university said, "Georgia Tech provides a unique blend of technical rigor and design creativity. The program’s emphasis on sustainable and technological solutions prepares you for the evolving demands of the architecture field."(Source-Reddit)

8. University of Michigan

Location: Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
QS Ranking: #23
Tuition Fees: $15,000 to $30,000
Best Courses: Architectural Design, Sustainable Urbanism, Computational Design
Website: University of Michigan
Admission Requirements: SAT: 1380–1520, ACT: 30–34, GPA: 3.7+, TOEFL: 90+

Searching for the best architecture schools in the US that combine innovation, sustainability, and global impact? The University of Michigan’s architecture program at Taubman College is highly regarded, winning awards like the AIA Henry Adams Medal for academic excellence. The curriculum covers design, urbanism, and sustainability. Graduates commonly secure placements at top firms, including Perkins&Will, Gensler, and SmithGroup. Taubman College’s Master of Architecture (M.Arch.) program is a STEM-designated professional program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), ensuring students are ready for licensure and leadership roles. Graduates have demonstrated competence in the field, with an average pass rate of 62% on the Architect Registration Examination (ARE), aligning with national standards. 

A student shared: "The Taubman College at UMich offers a comprehensive curriculum that balances design theory and practical application. The interdisciplinary approach and state-of-the-art facilities have been instrumental in my development as an architect."(Source-Reddit)

9. University of Southern California

Location: Watt Hall and Harris Hall, University Park Campus, Los Angeles, California
QS Ranking: #55
Tuition Fees: $60,000 to $70,000
Best Courses: Architecture, Landscape architecture, building science, and heritage conservation.
Website: arch.usc.edu.
Admission Requirements: SAT: 1410-1550, ACT: 31-34, GPA: 3.7+, TOEFL: 100+

The University of Southern California (USC), being one of the best architecture schools in the US architecture program is known for its strong focus on innovation, technology, and community engagement. Its curriculum blends design excellence with practical skills. Graduates find placements at premier firms, including Morphosis, Gensler, and HKS, benefiting from USC’s robust industry ties.

 10. Yale University

Location: New Haven, CT 06520, United States
QS Ranking: #11
Tuition Fees: $40,000 to $55,000
Best Courses: Architectural Design, Environmental Design, Urbanism
Website: https://www.yale.edu/
Admission Requirements: SAT: 1460–1580, ACT: 33–35, GPA: 3.8+, TOEFL: 100+

Why Choose This School Among the Best Architecture Schools in US?

Ranked among the best architecture schools in the country, Yale University is renowned for its emphasis on innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. The Master of Architecture (M.Arch.) program is fully accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), ensuring graduates are prepared for licensure. Its rigorous curriculum focuses on design research, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and advanced studios. Graduates often get placements at leading firms like Foster + Partners, OMA, and Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG).

A student remarked: "Yale's School of Architecture challenges you to think critically about design. The opportunity to engage with distinguished faculty and participate in advanced research projects has been invaluable."(Source-Reddit)

11. Rice University

Location: 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, United States
QS Ranking: #100
Tuition Fees: $25,000 to $52,000
Best Courses: Architectural Design, Technology in Architecture, Urban Planning
Website: https://www.rice.edu/
Admission Requirements: SAT: 1450–1560, ACT: 34–36, GPA: 3.9+, TOEFL: 100+

Located in Houston, Rice University is a standout among the top architecture schools in US, offering a balance of theory and practice. The Rice School of Architecture’s NAAB-accredited Master of Architecture (M.Arch.) program emphasizes small class sizes, enabling close mentorship. Its “Rice Building Workshop” allows students to design and construct real-world projects, fostering hands-on experience. Rice University’s architecture program prioritizes innovative design, sustainability, and research. Graduates often secure positions at top firms such as HOK, Gensler, and Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM).

A student from the university said: "Rice's School of Architecture fosters a close-knit community with its small class sizes. The 'Rice Building Workshop' allowed me to gain hands-on experience through real-world design-build projects."(Source-Reddit)

12. New York University

Location: New York, NY 10003, United States
QS Ranking: #35
Tuition Fees: $58,000 to $70,000
Best Courses: Urban Design, Sustainable Architecture, Real Estate Development
Website: https://www.nyu.edu/
Admission Requirements: SAT: 1400–1540, ACT: 31–34, GPA: 3.7+, TOEFL: 95+

Situated in New York City, New York University stands out as one of the best schools for architecture in the US. New York University (NYU) offers a dynamic architecture program focusing on urban design, technology, and sustainability. The curriculum includes interdisciplinary studies with practical design skills. Graduates secure placements at major firms like Perkins&Will, Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), and SHoP Architects. NYU prepares graduates to excel in the global architectural landscape.

A student posted: "NYU's Urban Design and Architecture Studies program provides a unique urban-centric approach. Being in the heart of New York City offers unparalleled access to diverse architectural styles and professional opportunities."(Source-Reddit)

Career Opportunities After Master’s of Architecture

After pursuing the top architecture programs in the US, graduates can explore different career options such as architect, urban planner, restoration expert, research architect, landscape architect, and interior designer. Many also apply their skills in creative industries like film or video game design. Career options are based on interests and skills, offering roles in design, project management, sustainability, and urban development. 

Tips to Choose the Top Architecture Schools in US

When choosing the best architecture masters programs, consider important factors like accreditation by recognized bodies such as NAAB to ensure degree value and licensure eligibility. Campus size and culture affect your experience, while smaller class sizes enhance professor interaction. Look for schools offering program-specific opportunities like internships and study abroad. International students should explore scholarships to fund their architectural education.

Choosing the right architecture school in the US can shape your future as a designer and innovator. The 12 best architecture schools in 2025 offer top-notch education, cutting-edge resources, and global exposure. Whether you look for creativity, research, or career opportunities, these institutions provide the perfect foundation for success.