A review of top architecture schools in the US and the UK, and how to make a standout portfolio for admission to their programs.
Choosing the right architecture school can set the course for a promising career. Among the myriad options available, certain institutions stand out in both league tables, rankings, and general reputation. It’s always worth digging a little further beyond these areas to get a more personal insight into what may make one school stand out over another, depending on your interests. In this blog post, we dive into seven highly ranked architecture schools: the Bartlett UCL, the AA, Cambridge, SCI-Arc, Cornell, RISD, MIT, and Harvard GSD. This post will focus on the pedagogical approaches of each school, highlighting their more unique differences, while also citing a few accepted portfolios to their programs. It’s worth noting that direct comparisons between these seven schools is less important here, since some offer different types of degrees that could be challenging to compare.
1. The Bartlett UCL: Located in London, The Bartlett School of Architecture at University College London is renowned for its visionary and speculative approaches.
2. The Architectural Association School of Architecture (AA): Also situated in London, the AA emphasizes a network and legacy of extremely famous architects, especially from the 80’s and 90’s.
3. Cambridge University: Cambridge’s Department of Architecture is known for rooting its student projects within strong social and political design contexts. You could say it boasts ‘real world’ thinking at these levels.
4. SCI-Arc (Southern California Institute of Architecture): Based in Los Angeles, SCI-Arc fosters hands-on learning and architectural experimentation.
5. Cornell University: Cornell’s College of Architecture, Art, and Planning focuses on sustainability and interdisciplinary collaboration, especially since it’s part of a wider research university.
6. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): MIT’s School of Architecture and Planning prioritizes cutting-edge research and solutions oriented thinking.
7. Harvard GSD (Graduate School of Design): Known for intellectual rigor, Harvard GSD has a history of producing very influential architects in the US. The school markets its students as ‘grounded visionaries’.
In the following sections, we’ll delve into each school’s unique offerings, accepted portfolios, and inspiring success stories.
The Bartlett UCL
The Bartlett School of Architecture at University College London (UCL) has earned a distinguished reputation through its unique pedagogical approach, influenced by the visionary architect and educator, Sir Peter Cook. With a diverse range of accredited and unaccredited degree programs, the Bartlett caters to the aspirations of students from highly varied backgrounds. Notably, the school has fostered strong ties with prominent architectural firms like Foster + Partners, who often sponsor the school and actively recruit students from its talented pool of graduates. These industry partnerships provide students with valuable opportunities to engage with real-world projects and gain hands-on experience, enriching their learning journey.
The Bartlett’s core undergraduate and postgraduate programs in architecture hold accreditation from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Architects Registration Board (ARB), ensuring graduates meet professional standards for architectural practice in the UK. Beyond its accredited programs, the Bartlett has gained recognition for its cutting-edge research initiatives and specialized courses that explore emerging fields and interdisciplinary approaches. This emphasis on experimentation and forward-thinking design has contributed to the school’s global reputation as a leading institution in architectural education.
One of the highlights of the Bartlett’s calendar is its famous Summer Show, an eagerly anticipated event that showcases the exceptional creativity and innovation of its students. The Summer Show attracts industry professionals, academics, and the public, providing students with a platform to exhibit their work and connect with potential employers and collaborators. This renowned exhibition celebrates the culmination of the students’ hard work and serves as a testament to the Bartlett’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of visionary architects.
The AA
The Architectural Association School of Architecture (AA) is known for its legacy of producing world-renowned architects like Zaha Hadid and Rem Koolhaas. With an unwavering emphasis on architectural theory, experimentation, and innovation, the AA continuously pushes the boundaries of architectural discourse and practice.
The school’s famed alumni, also Will Alsop and Richard Rogers, exemplify its impact. Their groundbreaking designs and forward-thinking approaches have left an indelible mark on the architectural world. On the outside of the AA building, a distinguished plaque commemorates the institution’s historic significance and the achievements of its exceptional alumni.
An annual highlight at the AA is the much-anticipated Summer Projects Review, an inspiring exhibition that showcases the remarkable creativity and ingenuity of its students. This platform allows students to present their innovative design projects to industry professionals, peers, and the public, fostering a culture of critical feedback and constructive dialogue.
Moreover, the AA distinguishes itself through its immersive visiting school programs, which provide students and professionals with unique opportunities to engage in design workshops and explorations in various global locations.
Hooke Park, part of the Architectural Association School of Architecture (AA), is a unique woodland campus in Dorset, England. It offers students a hands-on experience in sustainable forestry and experimental building projects as part of their Design + Make course. This tranquil setting fosters a strong connection between nature and architecture, promoting ecologically conscious design. Hooke Park exemplifies the AA’s commitment to innovative architectural education.
Cambridge University
Cambridge University’s Department of Architecture occupies a prominent position within a wider research university renowned for its academic excellence and rich history. The department’s significant engagement in pioneering design research aligns seamlessly with Cambridge’s tradition of intellectual exploration and innovation.
It’s not all serious though. Cambridge University on the whole has a very tight-knit community, exemplified by its collegiate life and quirky traditions. The May Ball, for instance, is a social highlight of the year and usually makes the national news for its uncompromising fireworks displays and themed college events.
The Department of Architecture holds a profound commitment to addressing contemporary societal challenges. The department places a strong emphasis on socially and politically minded projects, encouraging students to use their architectural skills to positively impact communities and respond to pressing global issues. The lengthy fieldwork components (at Masters level) is especially reflective of these themes, since it requires students to embed themselves in cultures and societies they may not otherwise usually be a part of.
Moreover, being part of a vibrant and diverse university, Cambridge’s architecture students enjoy a multi-disciplinary experience that encourages collaboration and cross-pollination of ideas. Cambridge ‘Formals’ are a great way of getting in on this – sitting shoulder to shoulder with leading academics in other fields to architecture as many times per week as you like. The opportunity to interact with students from various disciplines enriches an understanding of the broader context in which architecture operates.
SCI-Arc
SCI-Arc (Southern California Institute of Architecture) stands as a pioneering institution, founded by a group of visionary architects in 1972, including renowned architect Thom Mayne. Inspired by the likes of the Cooper Union and the AA, Thom Mayne envisioned a school that would push the boundaries of architectural education and embrace digital technology as a transformative force in design.
Located in the dynamic city of Los Angeles, SCI-Arc’s close relationship with the city provides an inspiring backdrop for architectural exploration. Especially since much of its faculty helped design a great deal of its urban spaces and places.
At SCI-Arc, digital technology takes center stage as a fundamental aspect of the design process. Emphasizing the latest software, parametric modeling, and digital fabrication techniques, the institute encourages students to envision innovative solutions that align with the ever-evolving demands of the industry.
The institute’s campus, anchored by the iconic Quarter Mile Studios, provides a vibrant setting for creativity. These large, open-plan spaces foster a collaborative atmosphere, promoting lively discussions and the exchange of ideas among students and faculty alike.
Cornell
Cornell University’s College of Architecture, Art, and Planning (AAP) is known for offering a comprehensive range of degrees that cater to diverse interests within the creative realm. At a stretch, it could be seen as a blend of the Bartlett and Cambridge since it is in equal parts speculative and research oriented. Situated within the wider Ivy League university, AAP benefits from Cornell’s rich academic environment and resources, creating a vibrant and multidisciplinary learning experience.
AAP offers a variety of degrees, including Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch), Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.), Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Urban and Regional Studies, and various graduate programs such as the MArch.
One of the delightful quirks at Cornell AAP is the annual Dragon Day Parade, a spirited tradition where students construct and parade a colossal dragon through campus. This lively event fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among students, creating cherished memories and an enduring sense of school spirit.
Beyond its quirky traditions, Cornell AAP is nestled within the breathtaking landscape of the Finger Lakes region, renowned for its picturesque gorges and waterfalls. The stunning natural surroundings provide a captivating backdrop for creative inspiration, enriching the learning environment for aspiring architects, artists, and planners.
The integration of AAP within Cornell University allows students to engage with a diverse and intellectually stimulating academic community. The university’s interdisciplinary approach promotes collaboration between different departments, encouraging students to explore connections between architecture, art, planning, and various other fields.
MIT
MIT’s School of Architecture and Planning offers, at its core, both an accredited Master of Architecture (MArch) program and an unaccredited Bachelor of Science (BS) in Architecture. The accredited MArch program at MIT is highly regarded for its emphasis on research, experimentation, and technological thinking.
In addition to its architectural program, MIT’s connections to the Media Lab provide students with unique opportunities to explore the integration of technology and architecture. The Media Lab is renowned for its exploration of innovative technologies, such as virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and digital fabrication, which can be applied to architectural design and construction. This collaboration between disciplines enriches the learning experience and encourages students to push the boundaries of architectural creativity.
MIT’s strong connection to Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design (GSD) further enhances its academic standing and opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration. The proximity to GSD allows students from both institutions to participate in joint lectures, workshops, and research projects. This exchange of ideas fosters a rich and dynamic intellectual environment, encouraging students to engage in dialogue with a diverse community of architects, planners, and designers.
Harvard GSD
Harvard Graduate School of Design (GSD) has a rich architectural legacy, beginning with its founder, Walter Gropius. As the founder of the Bauhaus school in Germany, Gropius brought his innovative design principles to Harvard GSD, leaving an indelible mark on the school’s approach to architectural education.
The accredited Master of Architecture (MArch) program embodies Gropius’ belief in critical thinking, design excellence, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The curriculum distantly reflects the Bauhaus tradition of integrating art, craft, and technology.
The Design Discovery program at Harvard GSD welcomes prospective applicants to immerse themselves in the school for three weeks each summer, to test whether they’d like to apply to the MArch program. This course is taught by recent graduates of the GSD, which goes a long way to give each summer student a full sense of what it may be like not just to study at Harvard GSD, but at architecture school more generally.
In Summary
Choosing the right architecture school is a pivotal decision that can shape one’s creative journey and professional future. Before applying, it is crucial to visit each school to get a firsthand experience of the campus, studio culture, and facilities. Attending the summer shows hosted by these institutions provides a glimpse into the students’ creative prowess and the school’s unique approach to design.
Another vital aspect to consider is researching the faculty members. Knowing their areas of expertise and their approach to teaching can help aspiring architects find the right fit for their academic aspirations. Additionally, understanding the legacy and philosophy of each school, such as the influence of founders like Peter Cook at the Bartlett or Walter Gropius at Harvard GSD, can offer valuable insights into the institution’s educational values.
A standout portfolio is paramount for admission to top architecture schools. Applicants should curate a collection of their best work that showcases their creative abilities, design thinking, and unique perspectives. This portfolio serves as a window into their potential as future architects, allowing admissions committees to assess their talent and suitability for the program.