Architectural Studies

The Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies at Tufts University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the built environment. This program combines principles of design, history, theory, and technology to prepare students for careers in architecture, urban planning, and related fields. Students explore the aesthetic, functional, and societal aspects of architecture through rigorous coursework, studio projects, and collaborative learning experiences. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, sustainability, and innovation, encouraging students to develop their own unique design perspectives while grounding their work in historical and contemporary context. In addition to core architectural courses, students have opportunities to study art, history, environmental science, and technology, fostering a well-rounded education that supports diverse career paths. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through studio practice, digital modeling, and research projects, enabling students to translate ideas into compelling visual and spatial solutions. Faculty mentorship and engagement with industry professionals provide students with real-world insights and professional development. Tufts’ location near Boston also offers valuable access to architectural firms, cultural institutions, and community projects, enhancing experiential learning outside the classroom. Graduates of the Architectural Studies program are equipped with critical skills in visual communication, technical understanding, and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing them for graduate education, careers in architecture, urban design, historic preservation, and related disciplines. The program fosters an inclusive and innovative academic environment that encourages students to address complex societal challenges through thoughtful, sustainable design. Overall, Tufts’ Architectural Studies degree provides a solid foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of architecture, inspiring students to become thoughtful designers and active contributors to shaping the future of our built environment.

Twelve courses total: Seven are core courses whose subject matter is exclusively or predominantly related to the built environment. Five are electives with subject matters or methodologies highly relevant to study of the built environment. A course cannot fulfill both the core and elective requirement. 

Core Requirements:

• Art History (FAH) 1: Introduction to World Art I
• Art History (FAH) 8: Introduction to Architecture, 1400 to the present
• Studio Art (FAM) 22: Design: Architectural
• Engineering core class 
• Humanities/Social Science core class 
• Architectural History core class 
• Art History (FAH) 98: Integrated Project Seminar 

Plus 5 multidisciplinary electives (5 courses chosen from at least 3 of the following 4 disciplinary areas): 

• Architectural and Art History
• Studio Art
• Humanities/Social Sciences, 
• Engineering

Recommended Sequence:

• Freshman-Sophomore years: FAH 8, FAH 1
• Freshman-Junior years: engineering core class; humanities/social science core class; studio art elective (FAM 20, 26)
• Sophomore-Senior years: FAM 22; Architectural History core class; multidisciplinary electives
• Senior year: FAH 98

Minor In Architectural Studies

Five courses total 
Requirements:

• Art History (FAH) 1 Introduction to World Art I
• Art History (FAH) 8 Introduction to Architecture, 1400 to the present
• Studio Art (FAM 22; or 20, 23, 26)
• Engineering core class
• Architectural History core class

1. Completed Common Application or Coalition Application
2. Completed Tufts Writing Supplement 
3. High School Transcript(s)
4. Senior Grades: All applicants will be required to send their senior grades as part of their application. Students applying Early Decision I should send first quarter or trimester grades no later than the last week in November. Students applying Early Decision II should plan for their first semester or trimester grades to arrive no later than the third week in January. Finally, Regular Decision applicants should submit their first semester or trimester grades by the middle of February. Students studying abroad (where predicted grades are common) should send those if senior grades are not available.
5. Testing:
   • For applicants to the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Engineering or the Combined Degree Programs with the SMFA at Tufts or the NEC: SAT with two subject tests or ACT. See the standardized test requirements for information about these tests and recommendations regarding which subject tests to take.
   • For applicants to the SMFA at Tufts' BFA program: SAT or ACT. Subject tests are not required for BFA candidates applying to the SMFA at Tufts.
6. TOEFL Scores: Required only for students for whom English is not the first language or who attend a school where English is not the language of instruction.
7. Letters of Recommendation: Tufts requires one letter from a teacher in a junior or senior year major academic course (math, natural science, social science, English, or a foreign language) and one letter from a guidance counselor for all applicants. Candidates for the SMFA at Tufts' BFA or Combined Degree programs are required to submit a letter from their art teacher as well. An additional letter from all other applicants, though not encouraged, may be submitted if the student feels it can add new perspective to his or her application.
8. Extracurricular Activities: In addition to evaluating an academic fit, the admissions committee looks for ways a student may contribute to the community as a whole. They will assess the level and type of involvement in each activity and may ask questions such as: Has the student been a significant contributor or leader? How has the involvement contributed to the school or larger community? Does the student have a special talent in a particular area? We do not expect all students to be team captains, class presidents, or editors-in-chief; rather, we look for meaningful involvement in their school and/or community. The Common Application allows students to list up to ten different activities, but you don't need to fill every space. Some of the most successful applicants are heavily engaged in just a few activities. Keep in mind that the Common Application is your one chance to show your extracurricular engagements: we are not able to accept a supplemental resume of activities.
9. Art Portfolio: Required only for students applying to the Combined Degree BFA/BA or BFA/BS and BFA applicants to the SMFA at Tufts. Submit a 15-20-piece portfolio of recent work, which represents your strengths and interests, via SlideRoom.
10. $75 Application Fee or Fee Waiver - You may have the application fee waived by submitting either i) a written request from your college counselor or school official who can attest that the fee would represent a financial hardship, or ii) a College Board Request for Waiver of the Application Fee form. You may consider the waiver approved unless a member of the Office of Undergraduate Admissions notifies you otherwise. Without an application fee, or an approved fee waiver, we cannot continue to process your application to Tufts University.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Tufts University offers a comprehensive range of financing options to support students pursuing degrees in Architectural Studies. Tuition fees vary depending on the program level and student status, but generally, undergraduate tuition for Tufts College is approximately $65,000 per year. Graduate students in related architecture programs might expect similar or slightly higher rates. To assist students in managing these costs, Tufts provides a variety of financial aid packages, including need-based grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Need-based aid is determined through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Tufts Financial Aid Application, with eligibility assessed annually. Merit-based scholarships are also available and are awarded based on academic achievement, portfolio quality, and potential contributions to the university community. Tufts is committed to increasing access and affordability; therefore, the university guarantees to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students. Loans, including federal student loans and private options, form a part of the financial aid packages to help cover remaining costs. Additionally, Tufts offers numerous internal fellowships and assistantships to graduate students, providing tuition remission and stipends. External funding sources, such as state and private scholarships, are also encouraged. The university provides extensive financial counseling services to help students understand their options, complete their applications, and plan for repayment. Overall, Tufts University aims to make Architectural Studies programs accessible through a robust and flexible financial aid system, ensuring that talented students can pursue their academic and professional goals without undue financial hardship.

The Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies at Tufts University is a comprehensive program designed to provide students with a broad understanding of architecture, its history, theory, and practice. The program emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and technical skills, preparing graduates for diverse careers within the architectural field or related disciplines. Students engage in rigorous coursework that includes studios, design projects, history and theory classes, and technical courses in areas such as building technology, environmental systems, and digital tools. The curriculum aims to foster an appreciation for sustainable design, social responsibility, and innovative problem-solving techniques. In addition to studio work, students have opportunities for internships, research projects, and collaborations with faculty members who are active practitioners and scholars. Tufts’ interdisciplinary approach encourages exploration across different fields such as urban planning, art history, and environmental studies, enriching students' understanding of architecture's role within broader societal contexts. The program also emphasizes the development of communication skills, including presentation and reporting, vital for effective professional practice. Students are encouraged to participate in external competitions, exhibitions, and conferences to showcase their work and gain real-world experience. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, including design labs and digital fabrication workshops, students can experiment with a variety of media and techniques. Upon graduation, students are well-equipped to pursue further studies in architecture or related disciplines, or to enter professional fields such as urban planning, interior design, or construction management. Overall, the Architectural Studies program at Tufts University aims to produce thoughtful, innovative, and socially conscious architects and designers who are prepared to address the complex challenges of the built environment in the 21st century.