Bachelor of Science in Architecture

The Bachelor of Science in Architecture program at The Ohio State University offers a comprehensive undergraduate education designed to prepare students for professional careers in architecture or further study in graduate programs. This program combines rigorous technical training with creative design exploration, fostering students' abilities to conceive, develop, and realize innovative architectural solutions that respond to societal needs, environmental challenges, and aesthetic considerations. Throughout the coursework, students engage in hands-on design studios, where they develop their skills in conceptualization, representation, and technical detailing, alongside lectures and seminars covering architectural history, theory, environmental systems, structures, construction methods, and digital technologies. The curriculum emphasizes sustainable design practices, building performance, and the integration of new technological tools, ensuring graduates are equipped for the evolving demands of the architectural profession. Collaboration is a key aspect of the program, encouraging teamwork, communication, and interdisciplinary problem-solving. Students also have opportunities for internships and real-world projects, gaining valuable industry experience. The Ohio State University’s state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated faculty support students in achieving academic excellence and professional readiness. Upon completion, graduates can pursue licensure requirements, advanced degrees, or direct entry into architectural practice, contributing to the creation of built environments that are functional, sustainable, and inspiring. The program aims to develop thoughtful, innovative architects capable of addressing complex design challenges on local and global scales.

The Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) program at The Ohio State University is designed to prepare students for professional practice in the field of architecture through a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum that integrates theoretical knowledge, technical skills, and hands-on experience. The program emphasizes understanding the fundamental principles of architectural design, history, and theory, alongside developing proficiency in building technology, structural systems, environmental systems, and digital design tools. Students engage in a progressive Studio sequence that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities, enabling them to develop innovative architectural solutions that are sustainable, functional, and contextually sensitive.

Throughout the program, students are encouraged to explore interdisciplinary approaches, integrating concepts from urban planning, landscape architecture, and interior design to broaden their understanding of the built environment. The curriculum includes coursework in architectural history and theory to cultivate an appreciation for diverse architectural styles and principles, as well as courses in environmental sustainability and building performance to prepare for environmentally responsible design practices. Technical courses focus on computer-aided design (CAD), Building Information Modeling (BIM), and other cutting-edge digital tools essential for modern architectural practice.

Fieldwork and internships are an integral part of the program, providing students with real-world experience and networking opportunities within the architecture industry. The program also emphasizes professional development, including ethical considerations, project management, and collaboration skills necessary for successful careers. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including design studios, computer labs, and fabrication workshops, fostering a creative environment for experimentation and innovation.

The Ohio State University’s architecture program prepares graduates for licensure and certification in architecture and equips them with the skills and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to society as architects, urban designers, or researchers. The program’s accreditation by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) ensures that students receive a recognized and high-quality education aligned with industry standards. By completing the program, graduates are well-positioned to pursue advanced degrees or enter the workforce as responsible, innovative, and ethically minded professionals dedicated to shaping the future of the built environment.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Architecture at The Ohio State University typically include a combination of core coursework, studio requirements, general education, and elective courses designed to provide a comprehensive education in architectural design, theory, technology, and practice. Students must complete foundational courses in architectural design, which develop visual and technical skills, along with classes in architectural history and theory to foster an understanding of context and cultural impacts. Technical courses focus on structures, environmental systems, and building technology to ensure students can integrate sustainable and innovative solutions.

The program emphasizes design studios, which are central to the curriculum, encouraging students to develop their conceptual and technical abilities through hands-on projects. These studios are progressively more complex, culminating in a comprehensive design thesis or final project that demonstrates mastery of concepts and skills. Alongside the studio sequence, students participate in courses on construction methods and materials, digital design and fabrication, and professional practice, preparing them for real-world challenges.

General education requirements include courses in humanities, social sciences, and mathematics, ensuring students acquire a well-rounded education. Additional requirements may include internships or co-op experiences, allowing students to gain practical industry exposure. Competency in computer-aided design (CAD), Building Information Modeling (BIM), and other relevant software is often integrated throughout the curriculum. To graduate, students must meet minimum credit hours, maintain a specified GPA, and successfully complete all coursework, including a final portfolio or thesis project. This comprehensive set of requirements ensures graduates are well-equipped for graduate study or professional practice in architecture.

The Ohio State University offers a comprehensive range of financing options for students pursuing a degree in Architecture. Undergraduate students primarily finance their studies through a combination of federal and private loans, scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and departmental assistantships. Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans are available to undergraduate architecture students, providing low-interest borrowing with a fixed interest rate established annually by legislation. Additionally, students can apply for institutional scholarships such as the Ohio State Scholarships, which are awarded based on academic achievement, artistic talent, or financial need. The university also offers academic department-specific scholarships for architecture students, which are competitive and often require a portfolio review or interview process.

Graduate students in the architecture program have access to similar federal loan options, including Graduate PLUS Loans, as well as assistantship opportunities that can provide tuition remission and a stipend in exchange for teaching or research duties. The university’s financial aid office offers counseling and resources to help students identify suitable funding sources and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for need-based aid. Furthermore, students are encouraged to seek external scholarships from professional organizations such as the American Institute of Architects (AIA) or regional preservation societies, which sometimes offer funding specifically for architecture students.

The university also emphasizes employment opportunities on and around campus, including part-time jobs, internships, and cooperative education programs relevant to architecture or related fields, providing additional income to support studies. For international students, the university offers specific scholarships and assistantship programs, although eligibility requirements may differ. Overall, the financing studies at Ohio State University aim to reduce financial barriers and enable students to focus on their education and career development in architecture. The total cost of attendance varies depending on residency status, program level, and other factors, but the university’s multiple funding avenues work together to make architectural education accessible and affordable.

The Ohio State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Architecture through its College of Engineering and College of Arts and Sciences. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive foundation in architectural design, history, technology, and professional practice. Students engage in a curriculum that balances studio-based learning with coursework in structural systems, environmental quality, building materials, and sustainability principles. The program emphasizes developing both creative design skills and technical proficiency, preparing graduates for careers in architecture, urban planning, and related fields.

Students in the Architecture program have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated design studios, computer labs equipped with advanced CAD and BIM software, and fabrication workshops with 3D printers, laser cutters, and model-making equipment. The curriculum encourages innovative thinking and sustainability, aligning with current industry trends and societal needs. The program also includes opportunities for internships and collaborative projects with industry partners, enabling students to gain real-world experience.

The Ohio State University’s Architecture program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating elements of architecture with engineering principles, environmental design, and digital technologies. The faculty comprises experienced professionals and researchers dedicated to advancing the field through teaching, research, and community engagement. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for licensure as architects, graduate study, or entry into related fields such as construction management, urban planning, or historic preservation.

The program typically spans four years for a Bachelor of Science degree, with options for minors or electives that allow students to customize their education. The university also offers pathways for graduate education, including Master of Architecture and related advanced degrees, fostering lifelong learning and professional development. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to participate in design competitions, study abroad experiences, and community service initiatives, enriching their educational journey and professional portfolio.

Overall, Ohio State’s Architecture program aims to cultivate innovative, socially responsible architects capable of designing sustainable and functional built environments that meet the needs of diverse communities.