This program consists of two two-year sequences. Years 1 and 2 include 17 credits of preparatory architectural coursework in addition to 73 credits devoted to satisfying the University of Washington’s general education requirements (click here to see more information on the university's general education requirements). These include coursework in the visual, literary and performing arts, math, science, the social sciences, and other knowledge areas. The intent of these first two years is to have students build their skills in communication and critical thinking, to gain broad exposure to other disciplines in order to make more informed academic and career decisions, and to provide the broad academic foundation essential to successful study in architecture. All interested University of Washington students are welcome to participate in this first two-year sequence.

There is a competitive admissions process for those applying to the undergraduate major, which students complete in Years 3 and 4. At this level, the coursework provides students with a firm foundation in the historical, theoretical, technological, and environmental forces that influence architectural design. Architectural design studios in Years 3 and 4 provide students with the opportunity to synthesize their knowledge and skills through design projects undertaken in an intensive studio environment.

The Architecture Department also offers a dual degree program. Students earn a BA in Architectural Studies and BS in Construction Management. For further information, visit the Arch/CM Dual Degree Web Page.

Admission into the Architectural Studies major requires:

• Junior standing (90 or more credits completed) including successful completion of the liberal arts component (73 credits) and 17 credits of selective College courses (see preparatory architectural course work requirements)
• Acceptance by the undergraduate program admissions committee
• A separate application to the University of Washington is necessary if a student is not enrolled at the University. Contact the University of Washington's Office of Admission, 320 Schmitz Hall, Box 355840, Seattle, WA 98l95, (206) 543-9686, Web: UW Admissions

While the cumulative GPA is an important admissions evaluation factor, the committee places special emphasis on the applicant's performance in preparatory architectural course work. It is to the student's advantage to take as many of these courses as possible before applying to the program.

The Department of Architecture wants every applicant to present his or her best possible case for admission. All applicants submit a comprehensive portfolio containing the completed application form, academic record, extra-curricular experiences, employment record, and samples of design/art abilities. The portfolio pages must be 8.5 in. x 11 in. vertical format with a maximum of 12 pages (24 sides). A 12-page ITOYA Profolio binder, or equivalent, works well for this. The material should be sequenced in the following order:

• Department Application. Click here for an application form with instructions and advice.
• Transcripts of all college-level work. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted.
• Transfer Evaluation of College Record - prepared by the Office of Admissions for transfer students.
• Spring quarter's grade report - as soon as it is available
• Personal Statement of Intent - one page typewritten, maximum. The statement of intent is an important means of describing your strengths, personality, and goals. Start working on your statement early enough to do at least a draft or two before you settle on a final version.
• Biography/Resume. This is a typewritten summary of your education, employment history, recreational interests, hobbies, travel, and personal interests.
• Letters of Recommendation (optional)
• Samples of Work - include only your best design/art work; no drafting projects.
• IMPORTANT: Put your name (Last Name First) in 18 point font, or equivalent, on the upper right front corner of the portfolio and on the side binder of the portfolio.

The Application Deadline is May 15 (except weekends), 4:00 PM. Send or deliver application materials to:

University of Washington
Bachelor of Arts Program
Department of Architecture
College of Architecture and Urban Planning
208 Gould Hall
Box 355720
Seattle, WA 98195-5720
Email: bainfo@u.washington.edu

Application Tips:

• Plan ahead! Start organizing your application at least a month before the application deadline.
• Make sure you will have up-to-date copies of your transcripts to submit with your application. You may order official and unofficial UW transcripts from 260 Schmitz Hall, or from the Undergraduate Advising, Gateway Center in 171 Mary Gates Hall. If you transferred to the UW, there may be an extra copy of your transfer transcript(s) in your student file; otherwise you will have to order another transcript from your old school. The Transfer Evaluation of College Record (prepared by the Office of Admissions) must accompany all transfer transcripts.
• The Application for Admission form is reasonably self-explanatory. Fill out completely the course category listing found on the back of the application sheet. If you are unclear about placement of courses to the various categories, consult with an advisor in the Undergraduate Advising Gateway Center, in Mary Gates Hall. You may also request to see the advising chart in your pre-major file, which lists the courses you've taken that fulfill pre-admission curriculum requirements for the Architecture Studies major. You must sign your course category listing.
• Pre registration: register for Autumn quarter assuming that you have not been accepted into the program. If you are accepted, the department will save you a place in your required classes and you may add-drop at the appropriate time.
• Other Questions? Many of your questions will be answered in The Undergraduate Architecture Program prospectus. If not, please contact the Undergraduate Advisor, Jean Joichi (jjoichi@u.washington.edu)