12 Best Architecture Schools in the US: Rankings, Fees, Acceptance rate

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! Here are the 12 best architecture schools in the US. 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- Country Ranking 2024

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 12 architecture schools in the US, complete with their QS rankings and must-try courses. Let's explore these architectural powerhouses and find the perfect fit for your design aspirations!

Best Architecture Universities in Cambridge

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Location: 77 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
QS Ranking: #1
Course Fee: $50,000 to $60,000
Acceptance Rate: 4%
Website: https://www.mit.edu/ 

MIT is a world-renowned university with being first in the QS rankings, and whose goal is to expand knowledge and train future scientists, engineers, and scholars. Students who enrol in the MIT architecture department receive a thorough education of the built environment. Being one of the best architecture universities in USA, it wants to provide students with the knowledge and creativity that helps them to be the best in this field. Each year, roughly 250 students enrol in the master's programme, and it is one of the most admired architecture schools. So no wonder MIT is one of the universities with the lowest acceptance rate.

Best Courses: 

1. Architecture

2. Architecture Design Studio II

3. Science in Art and Design

2. Harvard University

Location: Cambridge, MA, United States
QS Ranking: #4
‍Course Fee: $55,000 to $60,000
Acceptance Rate: 3.2%
Website: https://www.harvard.edu/ 

It's no surprise that Harvard is one of the best architecture schools in the US. The mission of Harvard University is to cultivate leaders who create a change in the world through excellence in teaching, learning, and research. Their architecture programmes train students in the best way possible to make them future-ready. 

In recent news, Harvard researchers have finally uncovered how Roman Architecture has survived for centuries. This proves that the researchers at Harvard University not only focus on future architecture but also are eager to study and learn from the past. But don’t lose hope just yet, as there are many Harvard University alumni who can help you make your decision easy. 

Courses: 

1. The Architectural Imagination

2. Design Speculations 

3. Landscape Architecture

So why wait? Check out these Harvard University scholarships and make your student journey easier.

3. The University Of California, Berkeley (UCB)

Location: Berkeley, CA, United States
QS Ranking: #10
Fee: $22,000 to $35,000
Acceptance Rate: 12%
Website: https://www.berkeley.edu/ 

Suppose you wish to be a prolific designer like Julia Morgan, who helped define what Californian architecture is today. In that case, you should consider studying architecture at the University of California at Berkeley. Here, students seeking their first certified professional degree receive a complete and demanding education leading to the practice of architecture. Depending on their previous training and experience, students can select from a range of paths within a two- to three-year curriculum. With an institution like this, there's no doubt this is one of the best architecture colleges in the US.

Guadalupe Morales Garfias, a former student, says,” There is many good stories to everything from the floor to the structure of the buildings.”

Courses: 

1. Architecture

2. Landscape Architecture 

3. Environmental Planning

4. Columbia University

Location: New York, NY 10027, United States
QS Ranking: #24
Fee: $60,000 to $70,000
Acceptance Rate: 3.7%
Website: https://www.columbia.edu/ 

In addition to being one of the most significant research institutions in the world, Columbia University offers undergraduate and graduate students. It provides a unique and prestigious learning environment, which makes it one of the best architecture schools in the US. The Columbia University architecture programme is run in cooperation with Barnard College, a partner institution. With an emphasis on architecture, students will finish a liberal arts education. Moreover, many students go on to graduate programmes. Even though it's just fiction, for all the HIMYM fanatics, Ted Mosbey was once a professor here who taught Architecture 101.

Courses: 

1. Advanced Architectural Design

2. Urban Design

3. Modern Building Technology

5. The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Location: Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
QS Ranking: #29
Fee: $32,000 to $40,000
Acceptance Rate: 10%
Website: https://www.ucla.edu/ 

UCLA is a truly global university that offers a diverse range of opportunities. It is multicultural, forward-thinking, and located in one of the best cities in the world. The results are evident in the rankings, with the university consistently being included among the best architecture colleges in the US. This is due to the university's abundant resources, illustrious reputation, and, most importantly, its strong commitment to making a genuine impact in the world. 

Courses: 

1. Urban Design

2. Projections

3. Histories of Architecture and Urbanism

UCLA and UC Berkeley are strong contenders, but do you know which one is best for you? To help you out, refer to this guide on UCLA vs. UC Berkeley and which is better for you!

6. Cornell University

Location: Ithaca, NY 14850, United States
QS Ranking: #13
Fee: $27,000 to $35,000 
Acceptance Rate: 8%
Website: https://www.cornell.edu/ 

Development of energy-efficient semiconductor technologies and materials- that's what Cornell is doing, leading a $34 million research facility. Cornell University has embraced the revolutionary spirit that established the university and supported one another in following unconventional paths to bring about change on a local and global level. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best architecture schools in the US.

Courses: 

1. Advanced Architectural Design

2. Architectural Science

3. Landscape Architecture

7. Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)

Location: North Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30332, United States
QS Ranking: #88
Fee: $15,000 to $25,000
Acceptance Rate: 21%
Website: https://gatech.edu/node/1 

Leading research institution, Georgia Institute of Technology, is dedicated to enhancing human welfare via cutting-edge science and technology. The goal of this best architecture school in the US is to produce leaders who will progress technology and enhance the architecture industry. Its mission and strategic plan are dedicated to educating its students to build a better future. Built in 1885, It is also one of the oldest colleges in the US.

A student from their senior year at Georgia Tech says, " It's a very vigorous school in terms of academics, but the life at school is pretty good. I would recommend it.”

Courses: 

1. Fundamentals of Design 

2. City and Regional Planning

3. Media + Modelling

8. University of Michigan

Location: 500 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
QS Ranking: #33
Fee: $49,232 to $60,056
Acceptance Rate: 23%
Website: https://umich.edu/ 

The academic vigour of Michigan delivers distinction in all academic fields and around the world. Due to the exceptional quality of its 19 schools and colleges, faculty with a global reputation, and departments with 250 degree programmes, the University of Michigan is regarded as a leader in higher education. It offers multiple architecture degrees for students to choose from. So, unsurprisingly, the University of Michigan is one of the best architecture schools in the US.

Courses: 

1. Architecture Design and Research

2. Landscape Architecture

3. Urban and Regional Planning

9. University of Pennsylvania 

Location: Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
QS Ranking: #12
Fee: $55,000 to $65,000 
Acceptance Rate: 7%
Website: https://www.upenn.edu/ 

UPenn is in the top 10 of the country for architecture. More specifically, it was ranked #5 out of 74 schools by College Factual. It is also ranked #1 in Pennsylvania. This is proof enough for it to be mentioned among the best architecture universities in the US. The University of Pennsylvania's architecture programme provides a thorough and demanding curriculum that equips graduates for the entire spectrum of activities in the Architecture profession.

Courses: 

1. Introduction to Architecture

2. Design Fundamentals

3. Landscape Architecture

10. Yale University

Location: New Haven, CT 06520, United States
QS Ranking: #16
Fee: $50,769 to $65,987
Acceptance Rate: 6%
Website: https://www.yale.edu/ 

Since the institution's establishment in 1701, Yale has been committed to advancing and igniting creativity and protecting knowledge for future generations. The Yale architecture programme blends components of an architectural school with a liberal arts education. The university also offers some in-house Yale scholarships to students to help them achieve their dreams. After completing this Architecture programme, graduates have to apply for a licence in order to work as architects. With this scale of education, it's safe to say that Yale University is one of the best architecture schools in the US.

Courses:

1. Design and Visualization

2. Technology and Practice

3. Urbanism and Landscape

11. Rice University

Location: 6100 Main St, Houston, TX 77005, United States
QS Ranking: #145
Course Fee: $30,00- to $40,000
Acceptance Rate: 9.3%
Website: https://www.rice.edu/ 

Rice University aspires to transformative research, unparalleled teaching, and contributions to the welfare of the world. Despite being situated in the huge Texas metropolis of Houston, Rice University's architecture programme is the smallest in the nation. This can be a fantastic fit if you're seeking the best architecture schools in America for individualised attention. The architecture programme at Rice University provides its students with a ‘preceptorship.’ This means that students will complete a paid internship with a renowned architecture company in the US or overseas during their fourth and fifth years. If you’re interested in this university, we think you should keep the cost of living in Houston handy.

Courses: 

1. Principles of Architecture 

2. Core Design Studio

3. Contemporary Practices

12. New York University

Location: New York, NY 10012, United States
QS Ranking: #38
Fee: $56,876 to $70,045
Acceptance Rate: 13%
Website: https://www.nyu.edu/ 

Since its establishment in 1831, NYU has been a leader in higher education, adopting an urban identity and professional focus. The programme for Urban Design and Architecture Studies (UDAS) offers an integrative analytical approach to these fields. Both a comprehensive, humanistic view of the city's physical features and pre-professional training for aspiring architects, city planners, public administrators, and authors on urban issues are provided by this curriculum. Even though New York University is the last on this list, it surely isn't the least, making it one of the best architecture schools in the US.

Courses: 

1. Historical and Substantial Architecture

2. Urban Design and Architecture Studies

3. Art History

Best Architecture Schools According to the Cities

Now that you know the best architecture schools in the US, it is also important to know which are the best architecture schools in America's states. This will help you to understand which state has the top colleges. Here is a list:

Career Opportunities After Masters of Architecture

After completing a Master of Architecture, there are numerous career opportunities available. Remember, the specific opportunities available to you may depend on your individual skills, interests, and experiences. It’s also worth noting that many architecture graduates work in related fields, and some even use their skills in more creative industries like film or video game design. Some of them are-

1. Architect: This is the most direct career path for architecture graduates. Architects design and oversee the construction of buildings, homes, and other structures.

2. Urban Planner: Urban planners develop plans and programs for land use in urban areas. They focus on creating functional and sustainable cities.

3. Restoration Architect: These architects specialise in the restoration, conservation, and preservation of historical buildings.

4. Research Architect: Research architects focus on studying and developing new technologies, materials, and methods related to architecture.

5. Landscape Architect: Landscape architects design outdoor spaces, including parks, gardens, and public areas.

6. Interior Designer: Interior designers plan and design indoor spaces. They focus on aesthetics, functionality, and safety.

Tips to Choose the Top Architecture Schools in the US

As a student, it's your job to research and fact-check the best architecture schools in the US to which you'll be applying for further education. So, to be on the safer side, here are a few things you must consider before finalising the top architecture universities in the US:

1. Accreditation: Ensure a recognized body accredits the best architecture schools in US. This ensures the quality of education and the value of the degree.

2. Campus Size: The size of the campus can impact your college experience. Some students prefer a large campus with many resources, while others prefer a smaller, more intimate setting.

3. Campus Culture: A campus's culture can greatly impact your college experience. Consider whether the school's values align with your own.

4. Class Size: Smaller classes in the architecture schools in the US often allow for more interaction with professors.

5. Program-Specific Opportunities: Look for the top architecture programs in the US that offer unique opportunities related to architecture, such as internships, study abroad programs, or research opportunities.

It is tough to make a definitive conclusion on the best architecture schools in the US because different schools excel in different areas, and what may be the best fit for one student may not be the best fit for another. If you can't afford to study in the US, there are various scholarships in the USA that can help you achieve your dream of studying at one of the best architecture Schools in the US. If you are planning to study in any of these universities, make sure you are well aware of their entrance exams, such as SAT! So, find your dream architecture univresitiy in the US and slay.