Architecture Course: Degrees, Subjects, Duration, Careers

Architecture is a field that combines creativity and technical expertise in the design of functional, inspiring, and sustainable spaces where people live, work, and connect. By working toward a degree in architecture, you can build the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a wide range of careers. Additionally, completing an accredited degree is a key requirement for obtaining an architecture license in the US.

In this article, we will go through everything you need to know about pursuing an architecture course in the US, including different degree programs, the B.Arch full form, available academic pathways, timelines to obtaining licensure, career outcomes, and more.

What Is an Architecture Course?

An architecture course introduces students to a wide range of architectural concepts, design principles, and real-world applications. Students learn how to design and construct buildings and spaces that are both functional and aesthetically engaging, preparing them to practice architecture in diverse environments.

An architecture degree will develop your critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and design skills, while also building your technical abilities like architectural drawing and project management. Additionally, you’ll get a strong understanding of construction and environmental design.

Architecture programs are available at multiple levels of study, from undergraduate to graduate degrees. At the undergraduate level, students can pursue a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch), Bachelor of Arts in Architecture (BA Arch), or Bachelor of Science in Architecture (BS Arch). Graduate-level programs include the Master of Architecture (M.Arch) and Doctor of Architecture (D.Arch), designed for advanced study and professional specialization.

While degrees such as the B.Arch or M.Arch provide a comprehensive foundation across the field of architecture, students can also explore specialized concentrations, short-term certificates, or online courses tailored to specific interests. These focused programs are excellent for developing new skills or transitioning into related roles, though they do not replace the in-depth education required for professional licensure.

Having looked at the different skills students can learn from an architecture course, let us take a deeper look at the different degrees and pathways available.

Architecture Degrees Explained (B.Arch vs. BA/BS + M.Arch vs. M.Arch Only)

A Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) is a five-year undergraduate professional degree focused on architectural design and technical skills, preparing students for a career in architecture. While it is longer than the typical four-year undergraduate degree, it meets the requirements for licensure in most US states. A B.Arch is an ideal choice for students who are highly confident in their choice of architecture as their academic major.

A Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) in architecture is typically a four-year pre-professional degree with a broader focus on liberal arts or sciences. This pathway is often shorter in duration and more cost-effective, and graduates who aim to become licensed architects must then complete a Master of Architecture (M.Arch) program to meet licensure requirements. This route is ideal for students who are looking to pursue careers that do not require architectural licensure, such as project management, architectural research, or design support roles.

The Bachelor of Architecture degree offers a more direct path to becoming a licensed architect, while a BA or BS provides a more flexible undergraduate degree with a wider range of potential career options post-graduation, including a future in architecture after completing a master’s program.

Students who hold a non-architecture undergraduate degree may also pursue a Master of Architecture (M.Arch). This pathway will generally require students to complete prerequisite courses that provide the foundational knowledge needed for graduate-level studies. The exact duration of the program varies by institution and may extend beyond the standard two-year timeline for a master’s degree.

Admissions and Educational Requirements

To apply for a B.Arch, BA, or BS architecture course as an international student, you will need a high school diploma or equivalent qualification. Some universities require a GPA of at least 3.0 and proof of English language proficiency scores that meet the minimum requirement of the university where you apply.

While the exact requirements may vary across different institutions, most master’s degrees in architecture require you to have a bachelor’s degree in architecture or a related course, a portfolio of your projects, and English language proficiency scores.

Meeting the academic and language requirements is the first step toward beginning your architecture studies in the US. Once you have secured admission into your desired program, the next step is understanding how long it typically takes to complete your studies and earn your architecture license.

How Long Does it Take to Become an Architect?

It is possible to earn your US architecture license in less than eight years by completing a B.Arch degree (five years), gaining the required internship experience of 3,740 hours (around two to three years), and passing the required exam.

According to the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), the average time to licensure is usually more than 11 years, as many students take additional time to complete degree requirements, gain experience, or prepare for exams.

While the path to becoming a licensed architect can vary depending on each student’s pace and circumstances, understanding the official education and licensure requirements is an important next step. Let us take a closer look at the process of licensure and accreditation for architects in the US and beyond.

Licensure and Accreditation in 2026

To call yourself an architect or to practice independently in the US, you will need to earn an architecture license. The licensing process involves fulfilling the education, experience, and examination requirements established by the jurisdiction in which you plan to practice.

The general steps to earning an architectural license in the US include:

• Completing an accredited architecture degree, such as a B.Arch or M.Arch

• Gaining 3,740 hours of documented professional experience through the Architectural Experience Program (AXP)

• Passing the Architect Registration Examination (ARE), which assesses your knowledge and skills across multiple areas of architectural practice

In comparison, the process of becoming an architect in the UK involves completing three parts of architectural training:

• Part One: Earning a degree recognized by the Architects Registration Board (ARB), followed by one year of practical work experience

• Part Two: Completing an additional two years of full-time university study, like a B.Arch, diploma, or M.Arch, followed by one year of practical training

• Part Three: Passing a final qualifying examination that assesses professional competence

While the US and UK pathways differ slightly, both can typically be completed in under eight years. The overall timeline depends on each student’s journey and whether they take breaks between study or training periods.

Now that we have looked at the requirements to earn an architecture license, let us explore various specializations within the field of architecture.

Architecture Specializations

Students pursuing a degree in architecture can choose from a range of specializations that align with their interests, career goals, and creative vision. Each specialization offers a way to understand how the field of architecture shapes the structures and spaces around us.

Urban Architecture

Urban architecture focuses on designing buildings and public spaces within the larger context of a city. Students will learn to design street layouts, public spaces, and residential and commercial areas so that city residents can efficiently move through well-planned spaces. The curriculum emphasizes understanding community needs and addressing structural and environmental challenges through thoughtful, sustainable design.

Architectural Technology

Architectural technology combines the artistic and technical aspects of architecture. Students in this specialization learn to integrate creative design with construction science and technology. The curriculum usually emphasizes the use of advanced computer software, including 3D modeling tools, to bring architectural concepts to life. Students develop strong analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills while learning to apply suitable materials, technologies, and processes to meet complex design requirements.

Architectural Engineering

Architectural engineering emphasizes the technical, mathematical, and physical aspects of creating structures, buildings, and their systems, including lighting, ventilation, heating, air conditioning, and structural support. This specialization bridges architecture and engineering, focusing on the structural integrity, energy efficiency, and mechanical performance of buildings and other structures.

Sustainable Design

A specialization in sustainable design prepares students to create buildings that reduce environmental impact while promoting human health and well-being. Coursework integrates ecological principles with architectural design, covering topics such as energy efficiency, material sustainability, site selection, and the full life cycle of a building. Students learn how to balance innovation with environmental responsibility.

Heritage and Restoration

Students specializing in heritage and restoration architecture focus on preserving, restoring, and adapting historic buildings and cultural sites. This interdisciplinary field combines architectural design with history, engineering, and conservation practices. The curriculum emphasizes maintaining the historical and cultural value of structures while ensuring modern functionality and sustainability.

Computational Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM)

Computational design and BIM focus on utilizing technology and data to enhance architectural processes. Students in this specialization learn to use algorithms, data modeling, and advanced digital tools to automate and optimize design workflows. This field emphasizes collaboration, efficiency, and precision in managing the entire building life cycle from concept to construction.

Architectural Design

Architectural design focuses on the creative and technical process of designing buildings and spaces. Through studio-based projects, students explore design theory, digital modeling, material studies, and structural principles. This specialization helps students develop a balance of artistic expression and practical design skills while learning how architecture responds to historical, cultural, and environmental contexts.

Architectural History

Students specializing in architectural history examine architecture within its social, cultural, and historical contexts. The curriculum explores architectural movements, theories, and styles from various regions and periods. Students develop research and analytical skills to interpret how architecture reflects cultural values, technological progress, and societal change over time.

Interior Design

A student specializing in interior design will learn the principles of design to create interior spaces for residential, hospitality, exhibition and commercial, and pop-up/experiential projects. As an interior design student, you will learn to incorporate technical design, color palettes, textiles, furniture placement, and material specification to enhance the look and function of a space. 

Landscape Architecture

In a landscape architecture concentration, students will combine art and science to design, plan, and manage outdoor spaces, such as parks, residential developments, campuses, gardens, cemeteries, commercial centers, resorts, transportation facilities, corporate and institutional centers, and waterfront developments. This specialty emphasizes meeting human needs by making effective use of environmental resources.

Each of these specializations allows students to explore a unique aspect of architecture through creative design, technological innovation, or environmental responsibility. By selecting a concentration that aligns with your interests and goals, you can build the skills needed to make a meaningful impact in the built environment while also developing a specialized expertise.

Next, let us look at potential career paths and salaries for architecture graduates.

Architecture Careers Paths, Job Outlook, and Salary in 2026

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for architects in 2024 was $96,690, and employment in the field is projected to grow by 4% between 2024 and 2034, roughly the same pace as the average for all occupations.

Below are several roles graduates with an architecture or related degree could pursue, as well as average annual salaries in the US, Brazil, China, and India.

Source: SalaryExpert, 2025

Architecture Degree FAQs

Is Architecture Considered Hard?

Architecture is often considered a challenging field because it demands a significant investment of time, creativity, and critical thinking. The discipline draws from multiple areas, including art, theory, business, and construction, and requires consistent effort to meet deadlines and navigate complex project-based work.

At the same time, architecture is also a highly rewarding field for students who have a passion for it. If you have a strong appreciation for design, are willing to work hard, have an eye for detail, and are motivated by the idea of shaping the built environment, a degree in architecture could be an excellent fit for you.

Do I Need to Be Good at Math or Drawing?

No, you do not need to be good at math or drawing to study architecture. While having these skills can be helpful, they are not mandatory. Most programs include courses designed to help students strengthen these skills over time.

B.Arch vs M.Arch – Which Is Better for You?

In the US, a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) is an undergraduate professional degree that a student can pursue if they want to become an architect and begin their professional studies immediately.

The Master of Architecture (M.Arch) is a graduate-level program suited for students who want to specialize in a particular area of architecture, enhance their expertise, or enter the field from a different academic background. Both degrees can lead to professional licensure, depending on your educational history and career goals.

Can I Study Architecture Online?

Yes, you can study an architecture course online through various degree programs, including foundation, bachelor’s, and master’s levels. With that said, it is important to remember that online architecture education has limitations, particularly the absence of a traditional studio environment, in-person collaboration, and hands-on experience — all of which are considered integral to architectural education.

Study at Top US Universities with Shorelight’s Help

A degree in architecture equips students with the creative, visual, and technical skills needed to design functional and inspiring spaces. Through studio-based projects and hands-on learning, students gain experience in architectural design, sustainable construction, and urban planning. These experiences prepare graduates to create environments that are both innovative and responsive to the evolving needs of communities.

Navigating the path to becoming an architect may seem complex, but you do not have to do it alone. Shorelight advisors are here to guide you every step of the way, from identifying the right-fit architecture program to preparing for your visa interview and supporting you throughout your academic journey. Shorelight helps you achieve your goals with confidence.

Need help finding the right-fit program? Ask an advisor >