5 Most Affordable Bachelor's Degrees In Architecture

Architects use knowledge of these subjects to plan a wide variety of structures and buildings:

• Physical science
• Mathematics
• Local laws
• Principles of design
• Aesthetics

A degree in architecture can position students for success in the field but the cost of tuition can make earning a degree difficult for many students. Learn more about the most affordable bachelor's degrees in architecture and find a valuable professional qualification at a low cost.

Ranking of Affordable Architecture Degree Programs

Here are some high-quality affordable architecture degree programs.

1. Florida Atlantic University

Florida Atlantic University offers an NAAB-accredited Bachelor of architecture (B. Arch) program in its prestigious school of architecture. The program has an interdisciplinary focus and will teach students about:

• Physical environment
• Sustainability
• Manufacturing
• Building
• Development

Florida Atlantic University has an affordable tuition rate of $203 per credit hour for students who reside in the state.

2. University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at Austin offers several different undergraduate degrees in architecture. Students can select a five-year B.Arch professional degree or a four-year Bachelor of Science in architectural studies (BSAS) with an optional architecture history track.

Architecture students will learn about:

• Architectural history
• Urban planning
• Sustainability
• Interior architecture
• Environmental design
• Landscape architecture

The university also offers a dual-track degree in architectural engineering that is shared between the School of Architecture and the School of Engineering. The architecture program costs $5,738 per semester and the School of Architecture gives out over $100,000 in scholarships each year.

3. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University is another great option for an affordable undergraduate degree in architecture. The five-year B. Arch program is fully accredited by the NAAB and contains coursework that will give students real-world experience. A top-notch design studio will allow students to dive deeper into core aspects of American design. In-state tuition is $14,586 per academic year. Students who study full-time can complete the degree in five years and prepare for professional licensure.

4. University of California Berkeley

The University of California Berkeley's Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in architecture is one of the most exciting architectural design programs in America. Students will benefit from helpful instructors and a welcoming atmosphere on campus. Students will learn core principles of the built environment and be well-prepared for graduate programs in architecture. The program has a design research track and a studio track to fit the needs and goals of each student. Tuition for the program costs $18,178 per academic year, allowing undergraduate students to become graduate students with minimal student debt.

5. University of Washington

Students looking for a well-rounded undergraduate degree in architecture should consider the University of Washington's B.A. in architectural studies. The program has a holistic focus and will teach students about urbanism, ecology, materials, manufacturing, aesthetics, and the politics of architecture.

Required classes include:

• Architectural Design and Representation
• Making and Craft
• Architecture of the Ancient World
• Architecture of the Medieval and Early Modern World
• History of Modern Architecture

High school students applying to the program will be given a holistic review by the admissions team. The University of Washington keeps tuition to an affordable rate of $12,643 per year to increase the accessibility of the program.

Cost of Architecture Education

The cost of accredited architecture programs can be a major barrier to potential architecture students. A five-year bachelor's degree in architecture (B. Arch) often costs over $100,000. Selecting a program in your state of residence and maximizing all sources of financial aid can keep your costs down.

Bachelor's Degree in Architecture

A Bachelor of architecture (B. Arch) is a traditional undergraduate program designed for students aspiring to professional architecture practice. A B. Arch degree is usually a five-year degree and may include a professional internship. Students interested in becoming licensed architects should make sure they select a National Architecture Accrediting Board (NAAB) accredited undergraduate degree. Another path to professional licensure is to complete a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree and then complete a Master of Architecture (M. Arch) program.

Master's Degree in Architecture

A Master of Architecture (M. Arch) is a graduate-level degree that prepares students for professional practice. An M. Arch degree typically takes one to three years to complete. Students who have already completed a five-year B. Arch program may be able to complete an M. Arch in one year while students with a four-year bachelor's degree may require a two-year or three-year program.

How To Make Architecture School More Affordable

While the listed price of NAAB-accredited pre-professional architecture programs can be intimidating, there are many ways to reduce your out-of-pocket costs and minimize student loans. The best colleges for affordable architecture degrees are accredited programs in your home state. Public universities with in-state tuition are typically the most cost-effective way to complete an architectural studies program.

Make sure to ask the financial aid department at any potential university about all grants and scholarships available. Need-based forms of aid can award funds to students who have limited resources. Merit-based aid is awarded based on academic achievements such as a high GPA.

FAQs About Affordable Architecture Degrees

Find answers to common questions about affordable architecture degrees.

Is It Expensive To Study Architecture?

Architecture is considered one of the more expensive professional degrees. Architects have a high degree of responsibility and must be well-trained before they can be trusted to design structures. Financial aid can help reduce the cost of a Bachelor of Architecture degree.

Which Is the Cheapest Country To Study Architecture?

Countries with government-subsidized higher education can sometimes offer affordable architecture degrees. For example, Norway offers high-quality architectural studies programs for low or no cost. Italy and the Netherlands are also popular destinations for students looking to earn an architecture degree abroad.

Are There Free Architecture Degree Programs?

While there are free online programs and open courses, NAAB-accredited architecture degrees are not free. Institutions have operational costs that make it difficult to offer accredited degrees for free.

What Are the Career Options for a Bachelor's Degree in Architecture?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, architecture is a stable and steadily growing field of employment. Over 8,000 architecture-related jobs are expected to open each year for the next decade. Common careers in architecture include:

• Architect
• Interior designer
• Town planner
• Urban designer
• College professor
• Restoration architect
• Landscape architect

Architecture students should also be aware of optimal locations for careers in architecture. Major cities that are excellent places to begin a career are:

• New York City
• Boston
• Houston
• Chicago

Can I Get a Master's Degree in Architecture Online?

Yes, students can earn a master's degree in architecture (M. Arch) in an online format. Online programs can be a good choice for busy students with work or family commitments.

Find an Affordable Architecture Degree Today

Earning a degree in architectural studies can prepare you for an exciting career. Check out one of the programs above that matches your needs and start learning right away.