University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC)
The University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) is a major urban public research university with one of the most diverse student bodies in the United States. It is from this vibrant intellectual and social context that the School of Architecture prepares its graduates to become the next generation of strategic thinkers, team leaders, and cultural producers in Chicago and the world.
Visit UIC's website: arch.uic.edu
The school believes that there are as many definitions of architecture, and ways of practicing as an architect, as there are individuals and institutions in the field. With about 400 students across its program, the School of Architecture offers pre-professional undergraduate degrees as well as professional and post-professional graduate degrees.
Degree programs
Bachelor of Science in Architecture (4 years): provides a comprehensive pre-professional education in architecture within the broader context of liberal arts study provided by the university.
Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies (2 years): upper level undergraduate major intended for transfer students; uses architecture and related design practices as a lens through which to understand the history of ideas and cultural invention.
Master of Architecture (3-year program): NAAB-accredited professional degree with a studio-centered curriculum, which is supported by required and elective coursework in architectural technology and theory.
Master of Science in Architecture (1-year program): post-professional degree with an intensive course of study intended to further students' critical skills and analytical abilities while expanding their architectural expertise.
Master of Arts in Design Criticism (2-year program): intensive writing program focused on developing textual and visual argumentation in the areas of architecture, urbanism, landscape, and allied design practices.
Undergraduate admission
Application requirements
- Common application
- Statement of interest
- Official transcript(s)
- Official ACT or SAT scores (optional)
- Official GED scores (if applicable)
- Nonrefundable application fee of $60
- Portfolio – optional for transfer applicants; freshman applicants do not submit portfolios
Deadlines
- Early action deadline: November 2
- Regular decision deadline: February 1
- Final transfer deadline: April 1
Learn more on our website.
Graduate admission
View admission deadlines and requirements on our website.
Studio culture + student life
The design studio is the central place where the curriculum comes together. Beginning in their very first semester, students are granted an individual studio workspace. The School of Architecture relies on its studio environment to contribute to its culture of curiosity, rigor, enthusiasm, and ambition. Studios are secure and respectful spaces that enable risk-taking, continuous conversation, and intensive collaboration.
But studying architecture at UIC goes beyond attending class and working in studio. By joining student organizations, attending school lectures and events, taking on internships, participating in trips abroad, and taking advantage of Chicago’s thriving architecture scene, students have many opportunities to explore and extend their interests.
