Our core curriculum is founded deeply on the study of the arts and sciences, with a gradually intensifying focus on the study of architecture that moves from conceptual design studies (two- and three-dimensional design) to architectural design.

Whether you are pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree or the Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in architecture, the course of study is the same through the 300-level—typically your junior year.

Freshman Year

Your first year begins with a foundation studio in both design and drawing. Compositional studies that explore materials, geometry, surface, and detailing lead to the design of a small building. Drawing emphasizes observation through the representation of space, light, and perspective. A concurrent one-credit lecture course taught by the dean introduces you to contemporary architectural and environmental issues.

The remaining half of your course work is dedicated to studies in the liberal arts. This is your opportunity to explore Washington University’s 56 departments and more than 1,500 courses.

Sophomore Year

Second-year studios focus on the design of two buildings: one in a rural location and the other in the city. In the first semester, you study perception in an existing landscape, focusing on elements such as light, reflection, texture, or perspective. You then transfer these studies to the design of a small building with a specific site.

The second-semester studio focuses on scale, as you turn your studies to designing a kindergarten in an urban neighborhood. Designs take into account the cultural mores of the neighborhood, the way the neighborhood is currently used, and how the children navigate the neighborhood to create a space that is well-suited to the children’s needs.

Studios are accompanied by a one-unit lecture course on the theoretical foundations of architecture, art, and culture, as well as a two-semester architectural history course. Similar to freshman year, the remaining half of your course work is devoted to electives.

Junior Year

Your studies in architecture intensify as projects in studio become more complex, addressing questions of construction, structure, and landscape. Your work also expands through an advanced drawing course, including digital representation, and course work in building technology and architectural history.