Architecture

The Columbia University Architecture Program offers a comprehensive and rigorous education designed to prepare students for leadership and innovation in the field of architecture. Located within the Graduate School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation, the program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach that integrates design excellence, technical proficiency, and critical thinking. Students engage with a diverse curriculum that encompasses architectural design, history, theory, technology, and urbanism, enabling them to develop a deep understanding of the built environment and its social, cultural, and environmental contexts.

The program fosters a collaborative learning environment, encouraging students to work on innovative projects that address contemporary challenges such as sustainability, resiliency, and social equity. Through studio-based courses, seminars, and workshops, students gain hands-on experience in architectural design, digital fabrication, sustainability strategies, and construction documentation. They also have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated studios, fabrication labs, and resource libraries, which support experimentation and growth.

Columbia’s location in New York City provides students with unique opportunities to study, analyze, and participate in real-world architectural projects within an urban context renowned for its architectural diversity and historical significance. The program also offers specialized tracks and concentrations, allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests such as urban design, digital architecture, or historic preservation.

Faculty members are esteemed professionals and researchers committed to mentoring students and advancing architectural knowledge through innovative research and practice. Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue careers in architecture, urban planning, design consultancy, research, or further academic pursuits. The Columbia University Architecture Program is dedicated to shaping thoughtful, responsible, and inventive architects who will contribute positively to the built environment worldwide.

Six sequential studios starting in autumn term, first year:

• A4001 Core studio, I 9 pts
• A4002 Core studio, II 9 pts
• A4003 Core studio, III 9 pts
• A4004 Advanced studio, IV 9 pts
• A4005 Advanced studio, V 9 pts
• A4006 Advanced studio, VI 9 pts

Total: 54 pts

Two sequential courses:

• A4348 History of architecture, I: 1700-1850 3 pts
• A4349 History of architecture, II: 1850-1930 3 pts

Total: 6 pts

If a student has had a similar class or classes, he or she may petition the professor of the class to waive the requirement.

Students must complete four courses (3 pts each for a total of 12 pts).

One course must be Pre-1750 and one course must be Non-Western.

The remaining two courses must be chosen from the following three categories:

1. Modern: 1750 to the Present
2. Urban Society
3. American

Students are expected to combine breadth in those fields they have not previously studied with in-depth seminars in at least one of these categories. At least one of the distribution areas must be Pre-1750, and one in Non-Western architecture, unless waivers are granted. Each term course schedule will identify those courses fulfilling the distribution requirements.

• A4509 Architectural drawing: basic 3 pts
• A4511 Architectural drawing: advanced or A4534 Advanced computer-aided design in architecture 3 pts

Total: 6 pts

• A4535 Computer-aided design in architecture 3 pts
• A4560 Professional practice 3 pts

Total: 6 pts

Six sequential courses:

• A4111 Architectural Technology I (AT1) 3 pts
• A4112 Architectural Technology II (AT2) 3 pts
• A4113 Architectural Technology III (AT3) 3 pts
• A4114 Architectural Technology IV (AT4) 3 pts
• A4115 Architectural Technology V (AT5) 3 pts
• A4116 Architectural Technology VI (AT6) 3 pts

Total: 18 pts

Electives are open to all students in the School, subject to the prerequisites listed in the course descriptions. Students waived out of ATII; ATIII; ATIV; or ATV, must take an advanced elective course for each waived course. Some courses are not offered every year. Additional technology electives are taught occasionally. See the printed version of the bulletin for a full listing of qualified technical electives.

Requirements

1. All applicants must have an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university by the time they start the M. ARCH program.
2. All applicants must have fulfilled a minimum of 45 credit hours of general studies in the arts, humanities and/or science at their undergraduate institution.
3. History/Theory Course Sequence: All applicants must have completed a 3-point survey course in architectural history at an accredited college or university dealing with any of the following periods: classical to Renaissance, Renaissance to modern, or modern.
4. Building Technologies Course Sequence: All applicants must have completed a 3-point course in general physics or two 3-point calculus courses at an accredited college or university.
5. Applicants who have no prior background in architecture must complete a course in architectural graphic presentation (this could be one term of architectural studio or a studio in the visual arts such as drawing, painting, or sculpture) as a prerequisite for the Core Studio Sequence, before registering in the M. ARCH Program.
6. Upload a personal statement. This may not be changed or updated after submission.
7. Upload scanned copies of official academic transcripts for each university attended and credit earned, including certified English translations (if applicable).
8. Send GRE score report to the Columbia GSAPP Admissions Office. A minimum verbal score of 150 is required.
9. Send TOEFL score report to the Columbia GSAPP (International students only). A minimum score of 100 is required.
10. Submit online application and fee ($75 USD, payable only by VISA or MasterCard).
11. Mail a copy of your portfolio to the Columbia GSAPP Admissions Office: 400 Avery Hall, 1172 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10027. Portfolios must be postmarked or received by the application deadline; we do not accept digital portfolios under any circumstances. Portfolios must not exceed 8.5 X 11 inches (21.5 X 27.9cm) or be more than 0.5 inch (1.27cm) thick. Large Portfolios with glass or protruding metal parts, slides, DVD's, or CDs are not acceptable. Portfolios must be marked with the applicant’s name.

The Master of Architecture program at Columbia University offers a comprehensive approach to financing studies, accommodating a diverse range of student financial needs. Students generally have access to multiple funding options, including institutional scholarships, merit-based awards, and external financial aid programs. Columbia University provides scholarships specifically geared toward architecture students, which are awarded based on academic excellence, portfolio quality, and potential contributions to the field. These scholarships do not typically require repayment and can significantly reduce the financial burden of graduate study.

In addition to scholarships, students may consider applying for federal and state financial aid programs, such as Stafford Loans, Perkins Loans, and Graduate PLUS Loans, which can provide low-interest financing options. The university’s financial aid office offers counseling to help students navigate the application process and understand the full scope of loan options available. Many students also secure fellowships and research assistantships that provide stipends in exchange for research or teaching responsibilities, thereby offsetting tuition costs and providing financial support throughout their studies.

Columbia’s architecture program encourages students to seek external grants and sponsorships from professional organizations, arts foundations, and government agencies dedicated to supporting emerging architects. Some students benefit from work-study opportunities or part-time employment that aligns with their academic schedule, offering additional income sources during their studies. International students are advised to explore specific scholarship opportunities for international applicants and to consult the university’s international student office for guidance on visa status and permitted employment.

Overall, financing an architecture degree at Columbia involves a combination of university-funded aid, external scholarships, federal aid, and work opportunities. The university maintains a transparent and accessible process for applying for financial assistance, emphasizing equitable access to education regardless of financial background. Prospective students are encouraged to begin their financial planning early, review all available options, and consult with the university’s financial aid counselors to develop a tailored funding plan that supports their academic and professional ambitions in architecture.

The Bachelor of Science in Architecture at Columbia University is a highly selective undergraduate program designed to prepare students for professional practice or graduate study in architecture, urban planning, and related fields. The program combines rigorous academic coursework with practical design studio experiences, fostering creativity, technical proficiency, and critical thinking. Students engage with a diverse curriculum that emphasizes architectural design, history and theory, technology, environmental systems, and professional practice. The curriculum is structured to develop a comprehensive understanding of architecture as both an art and a science, encouraging students to explore innovative solutions to contemporary urban and environmental challenges. The program benefits from Columbia’s location in New York City, offering students unique access to a vibrant urban environment, galleries, architectural firms, and cultural institutions, which serve as valuable resources for research, internships, and real-world projects. Faculty members are distinguished professionals and scholars who offer mentorship and expertise across a range of architectural disciplines. The program also emphasizes sustainability, digital technologies, and interdisciplinary collaboration to prepare students for the evolving landscape of architectural practice. Graduates of the program are equipped with a strong foundation for careers in architecture, design, urban planning, or for pursuing advanced degrees such as a Master of Architecture or other related professional programs. The architecture program at Columbia is committed to fostering innovative, socially responsible designers capable of addressing complex global issues through thoughtful design solutions.