Architecture

The Bachelor of Arts in Architecture at the University of California offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education in the art and science of designing built environments. This program emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, technical proficiency, and an understanding of social and cultural contexts that influence architecture. Students will engage with coursework that spans architectural history, theory, environmental sustainability, digital technologies, and construction methods, preparing them to become innovative professionals capable of addressing complex challenges in the architectural industry. The curriculum fosters hands-on learning through studio work, design projects, and collaborative assignments, encouraging students to develop their unique architectural voice while adhering to principles of sustainable design and ethical practice. Faculty members are distinguished scholars and practitioners who mentor students and guide them through the intricacies of architecture as both an art form and a practical discipline. The program also offers opportunities for internships, research, and global exchange, enabling students to gain diverse perspectives and real-world experience. Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Architecture are well-equipped to pursue careers in architecture firms, urban planning agencies, landscape architecture, and related fields, or to continue their education through advanced degrees. The UC Architecture program is committed to fostering an inclusive academic environment that values diversity and innovation, ensuring that students develop the skills, knowledge, and ethical awareness necessary to shape the future of the built environment responsibly. With state-of-the-art facilities, a vibrant campus community, and dedicated faculty, the program aims to cultivate future leaders in architecture who will contribute meaningfully to society.

1st Year

FALL

Introductory Design Studio - 6 units

Introduction to Computers - 2 units

Structures I - 4 units

Introduction to Building Construction - 2 units

WINTER

Building Design Studio - 6 units

Theories of Architecture - 4 units

Structures II - 4 units

SPRING

Technology Core - 6 units

Structures III - 4 units

Building Climatolog - 4 units

2nd Year

FALL

Building Design with Landscape Studio - 6 units

Theory of Architectural Programming - 4 units

Elective - 4 units

WINTER

Major Building Design Studio - 6 units

Environmental Controls - 4 units

Elective - 4 units

SPRING

Comprehensive Studio - 6 units

Building Construction - 4 units

Professional Practice - 4 units

3rd Year

FALL

Advanced Topics Studio - 6 units

Elective - 4 units

Research Studio Seminar - 2 units

WINTER

Advanced Topics Studio - 6 units

Elective - 4 units

Research Studio Seminar - 2 units

SPRING

Elective - 4 units

Elective - 4 units

Research Studio - 6 units

Academic Background

A.B., B.A., B.S. (including four-year B.A. or B.S. in Architecture)
Nonarchitecture undergraduate degree or, four-year nonprofessional degree in architecture.
Degree Objective on the Application for Graduate Admission (AGA): MAR

Admission Requirements

The M.Arch.I program accepts applications from those holding Bachelor's degree (or its equivalent) comparable in standards and content to a Bachelor's degree from the University of California.

Applications are accepted from students with diverse backgrounds. Although no formal training in architecture is required, first-year classes assume some familiarity with the history and culture of architecture, possession of basic graphic skills, and the understanding of fundamental concepts of mathematics and physics. Applicants are strongly advised to become familiar with basic works in the history and theory of architecture before entering the program.

Entry into the program is therefore conditional on having taken at least one college-level course in each of the following areas:

Newtonian Physics
One basic college-level Newtonian physics course covering light, heat and sound.
Minimum grade of “C”

Mathematics
One college-level math course covering algebra plus geometry or trigonometry, or pre-calculus or calculus.
Minimum grade of “C”

Drawing or Basic Design
Minimum grade of “B”

A Survey in the History of Architecture
Minimum 1 semester or 2 quarters that covers antiquity (i.e. Mesopotamia, Asyrian, Ancient Greek, Ancient Roman, Egytian) to the present. Note: Art History Courses do not satisfy this requirement.
Minimum grade of “B”

 If you are an international applicant and find that your university does not offer a course that fulfills our History of Architecture prerequisite, we suggest you contact a local community college in the spring prior to starting UCLA to organize taking a course in the U.S. before you enter.

Also an applicant must submit a digital portfolio as part of their application (no hard copy portfolios will be accepted).  The portfolio must be submitted using the UCLA Arts Graduate Departmental Application Upload System. Terms are: Your portfolio should be saved as a PDF, including a cover and rear cover that is 8 1/2" x 11" either landscape or portrait format. We suggest best practice would be to design your portfolio as single sheets. Please state your name clearly on the cover page. Image sizes should be at least 150 dpi and no more than 300 dpi for print. Your compressed file size should be no greater than 15 MB.

The University of California offers various funding options for students pursuing Architecture programs across its campuses. Financial assistance is available through federal and state grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and private awards. Federal financial aid programs such as the Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), and federal student loans are accessible to eligible students, helping reduce the financial burden of higher education. Additionally, the University of California provides institutional scholarships based on merit, need, or a combination of both, which are awarded through campus-specific scholarship programs. Many UC campuses also have departmental scholarships dedicated specifically to Architecture students, supporting those with academic excellence or financial need. Work-study programs allow students to gain professional experience while earning income that helps cover educational expenses. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually to determine their eligibility for federal and state assistance programs. Moreover, external organizations and private donors offer scholarship opportunities for students enrolled in Architecture at UC. Some students also pursue private loans or personal funding sources; however, these options should be considered carefully due to potential debt implications. The University of California also promotes financial literacy resources to assist students in managing their education costs effectively. Overall, a comprehensive range of financing options are available to support Architecture students financially throughout their academic journey at UC.

The University of California offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science programs in Architecture through its various campuses, including UC Berkeley, UCLA, and others. These programs are designed to prepare students for careers in architecture, landscape architecture, urban planning, and related fields, emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The curriculum typically combines studio coursework, design projects, technical courses, history and theory classes, and opportunities for research and internships. Students learn about sustainable design, building technologies, environmental systems, and the social impact of architecture. The programs aim to foster creativity, critical thinking, and technical proficiency, enabling graduates to contribute effectively to the built environment. UC Architecture programs often encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and provide access to state-of-the-art facilities, including design studios, computer labs, and fabrication workshops. Admissions are competitive and consider academic achievement, portfolio, and relevant experience. Graduates of UC Architecture programs are well-equipped to pursue licensure, advanced degrees, or related careers in architecture, urban planning, interior design, and associated fields. Throughout the curriculum, there is a focus on preparing students to address contemporary challenges such as climate change, social equity, and technological innovation within architectural practice. The programs also promote engagement with professional organizations, community projects, and global design issues to broaden students’ perspectives. By completing an architecture program at UC, students gain a multidisciplinary education that prepares them for the dynamic and evolving field of architecture, with opportunities for professional development, research, and leadership.