Architectural Design

The Stanford University Architectural Design program offers a comprehensive and innovative curriculum aimed at preparing students to become leading professionals in the field of architecture. The program emphasizes the integration of creative design, technical expertise, and critical thinking to address complex architectural challenges in diverse contexts. Students engage in rigorous studio-based projects that foster hands-on experience, encouraging exploration of form, space, materials, and sustainability. The curriculum combines foundational courses in architectural history, theory, and environmental systems with advanced design studios, allowing students to develop a unique architectural voice while understanding the social, cultural, and ecological implications of their work. The program also promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, offering opportunities to work alongside students and faculty from engineering, urban planning, and environmental sciences, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to tackle the multifaceted issues facing modern architecture. State-of-the-art facilities, including well-equipped design studios, digital fabrication labs, and computational tools, support innovative experimentation and research. Students are encouraged to engage with contemporary technological advancements such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), parametric design, and sustainable building practices. The program’s faculty comprises distinguished architects, researchers, and educators dedicated to mentoring students and fostering a collaborative learning environment. Stanford’s emphasis on interdisciplinary research and real-world projects ensures that graduates are not only technically proficient but also socially conscious and environmentally responsible architects. The program typically culminates in a thesis project that demonstrates mastery of design innovation, technical knowledge, and critical inquiry. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in architecture firms, academic roles, urban design, and research, contributing to the development of sustainable, functional, and aesthetically compelling built environments worldwide.

The mission of the undergraduate program in Architectural Design is to develop students' ability to integrate engineering and architecture in ways that blend innovative architectural design with cutting-edge engineering technologies. Courses in the program combine hands-on architectural design studios with a wide variety of other courses. Students can choose from a broad mix of elective courses concerning energy conservation, sustainability, building systems, and structures, as well as design foundation and fine arts courses. In addition to preparing students for advanced studies in architecture and construction management, the program's math and science requirements prepare students well for graduate work in other fields such as civil and environmental engineering, law, and business.

Requirements

For additional information and sample programs see the Handbook for Undergraduate Engineering Programs.

Requirements

• Coalition Application or Common Application
• $90 nonrefundable application fee or fee waiver request 
• (counselor verification required)
• Official testing (SAT with Essay or ACT with Writing) sent from the College Board or ACT
• School report including counselor letter of recommendation
• Official transcript(s)
• Letters of recommendation from two teachers
• Midyear transcript
• The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), although not required, is strongly recommended for non-native speakers of English.

The Architectural Design program at Stanford University offers a comprehensive approach to funding and financial support tailored to meet the needs of graduate students pursuing advanced studies in architecture. Prospective students are encouraged to explore multiple avenues of financial assistance, including fellowships, scholarships, teaching and research assistantships, and external funding sources. Stanford University provides merit-based fellowships that are awarded on a competitive basis, often covering partial or full tuition fees as well as providing stipend support to assist students with living expenses. The program also benefits from department-specific scholarships aimed at students demonstrating exceptional talent and potential in architectural design.

In addition to university-wide funding options, students are encouraged to seek external scholarships and grants offered by private foundations and professional organizations dedicated to promoting architectural education and innovation. Many students supplement their funding through teaching assistant positions, which involve contributing to studio courses, design critiques, and research projects under faculty supervision. Research assistantships may also be available, particularly for students engaged in scholarly or applied research initiatives related to architecture and urban design.

Students should note that financial aid availability can vary annually depending on university budgets and external funding opportunities. To maximize their financial support, applicants are advised to submit all required documents early and maintain good academic standing. International students are eligible for many of the same funding opportunities as domestic students, though they may also consider external scholarships specific to international applicants.

Stanford's financial aid policies prioritize ensuring that talented students can pursue their academic goals regardless of economic background. Therefore, the university offers need-based aid to qualifying students, with an emphasis on meeting demonstrated financial need fully. Detailed information about application procedures, deadlines, and eligibility criteria is published on the official Stanford University website and the Department of Architecture's financial aid pages. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the university's financial aid office and the department's administrative staff for personalized assistance and guidance throughout the application process. Overall, the program's financing options aim to support diverse, talented students in contributing to innovative architectural design and research, fostering a vibrant academic community dedicated to excellence.

The Bachelor of Arts in Design at Stanford University offers a comprehensive undergraduate education in the field of architecture and design. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach that integrates arts, engineering, and social sciences to develop students' skills in design thinking, technical proficiency, and critical analysis. Students are exposed to a broad curriculum that includes architecture history, environmental systems, structural systems, digital design, and sustainable practices, preparing them for diverse careers in architecture, urban design, and related fields.

The program encourages innovative problem-solving through studio work, internships, and collaborative projects. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including design studios, fabrication labs, and digital media centers, enabling hands-on learning and experimentation. Faculty members are often recognized experts in their fields, providing mentorship and fostering an environment of academic excellence and creativity. The curriculum is designed to help students understand the social, cultural, and environmental impacts of their designs, emphasizing sustainable practices and responsible stewardship of resources.

Graduates from the program often pursue advanced degrees or enter professional practice, contributing to urban development, landscape architecture, and interior design sectors. The university's location in Silicon Valley also offers unique opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration with technology and innovation industries. Overall, Stanford's Architectural Design program aims to cultivate visionary designers equipped to address contemporary challenges in the built environment, with a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and sustainable development.