The word architecture contains components of the words art, technology, and culture. Although this is strictly coincidental, it is a reminder of the multiple layers of the field. Many students choose architecture because of its versatility. It offers career opportunities to design houses, offices, commercial and industrial buildings, interiors, gardens, parks, wetlands, and entire communities and cities that are not only aesthetically pleasing, but safe, functional, and representative of the people that live, work, and play in them.

Learning about architecture is learning about how to create spaces that respond to the sensory, intellectual, and emotional well-being of humans. If you pursue a degree in architecture, your studies will span art history, architectural history, psychology, drawing and drafting, computer design and 3-D modeling, project planning, and environmental sustainability. In short, your educational path will not be exclusively artistic, scientific, or technical. It will be all of these, and more.

Pro Tip
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With so many categories within architecture programs, it can be a bit daunting when trying to decide which best fits your interests or career aspirations. To help you decipher the diversity, we're breaking down 5 popular options below: