Architecture

Upon admission to the university, first-year students interested in architecture are admitted directly to the major. No prior experience or portfolio is required.

In the first year, students take Knowlton 2300: Outlines of the Built Environment, and Knowlton 2310: Seeing and Making. These foundation courses introduce fundamental knowledge, language and skills to prepare students for either the architecture or landscape architecture major.

First-year students who begin at Ohio State as architecture majors are eligible to continue into the second year upon earning a B or higher in both architecture foundation courses. Additional seats in the cohort may be available to transfer students from other institutions or to major change students on a space-available basis.

This program operates on a cohort model. Students should expect four years to complete the Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree regardless of previous credit earned.

Architecture students engage individually and collaboratively in a studio-based curriculum as they propose design solutions and communicate those solutions through a range of media, including digital rendering, model making, full-scale fabrication, writing and public presentations.

During the first year, students must complete foundation courses (Knowlton 2300 and 2310) and establish a foundation in the design of the built environment through a series of design projects that highlight the disciplines of architecture, landscape architecture and urban design.

Second-year students complete courses in architectural history and graphical representation. They complete projects that emphasize techniques of modeling and drawing accompanied by critical inquiry.

Third-year students develop an understanding of architecture as a cultural practice through projects with collective, large-scale, institutional programs on specific sites. Students complete courses in building construction, structures and systems and join fourth-year students in elective studios spring semester.

Fourth-year students complete large-scale, hybrid programs on complex sites. In addition to design studios, students select seminars on advanced topics relating to technology, history and theory.

Students are encouraged to participate in a Knowlton-led education abroad program during their time as a student. Knowlton programs are traditionally offered during academic breaks, allowing for the greatest flexibility and participation. Recent programs include study in Cuba, Chile, Ghana, Italy, Japan, Taiwan and travel tours throughout multiple European countries that focus on topics from the development of modern architecture to sustainable urban planning practices.

Knowlton students may apply for one of the school’s Architecture Research Travel Awards (ARTA) in order to pursue independent travel and research abroad.

Learn more about education abroad opportunities.

Architecture students have opportunities for paid internships locally and across the United States. They prepare for internships by working with faculty and Knowlton School student services staff, attending the Knowlton School’s annual career fair, and participating in the Knowlton School mentor program to connect with professionals.

Students join the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) to connect with professional through firm visits, portfolio and resume reviews, and mock interviews.

The National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) champions diversity within the design professions.

SERVitecture links students with design-based service experiences such as Habitat for Humanity. SERVitecture’s annual Fashion Schau is a highlight for students of all majors.

Ohio State’s four year, pre-professional architecture degree prepares students to continue their studies in an accredited Master of Architecture program. Ohio State students consistently enroll in the nation’s best architecture graduate programs, including Harvard University, Yale University, University of Pennsylvania, Columbia University, Rice University, University of Michigan, Sci-ARC and UCLA. 

The core components of becoming a licensed architect include:

• education (earning an accredited Master of Architecture degree)
• experience (documented though the National Council of Architectural Registration Board’s Architectural Experience Program)
• examination (completion of the Architect Registration Exam)

Many architects specialize in design, while others become adept at managing, marketing and other aspects of professional practice. Architecture firms are also involved in real estate development and construction, a form of practice known as “design/build.” Local, state and federal governments and private entities also employ architects to plan and oversee the work of design and planning firms.

Many architects combine private practice with teaching or architectural journalism. Others trained as architects enter allied fields of planning, engineering, real estate development and construction, or develop graphic, industrial or interior design specialties. Theater, film and television industries attract architecture graduates, as do museums, display firms, and architectural product and materials manufacturers.

New architecture graduates with a pre-professional degree can expect annual salaries above $45,000. Those with professional degrees who have completed their experience requirements and their registration exams may earn salaries of $70,000 or more. Partners in large architecture firms earn considerably more, with income and benefits often exceeding $200,000.