You’ve probably heard of many outstanding Architecture schools in New England, but choosing the right one can still be a challenge. New England isn’t just a classroom—it’s a vibrant canvas for aspiring architects, offering a dynamic environment to polish your skills and unfold your creativity. With the rise of online education, you’re no longer limited to local options; even some of the prestigious schools now offer online courses. Plus, several trade schools provide intriguing programs. So, which of the best Architecture schools in New England will shape your future?
Our Top Picks for Architecture Schools in New England
1. Harvard University
Harvard University, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, offers an undergraduate concentration in Architecture. The university provides two NAAB-accredited Master of Architecture programs. One is designed for students who have earned a pre-professional degree in Architecture and requires 75 credits to graduate.
The other is for students with an undergraduate degree in a different discipline and requires 105 credits. Harvard also offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Architecture program, which requires students to complete a general exam and a dissertation.
2. Yale School of Architecture (New Haven, CT)
Yale University is one of the best schools in New England for pursuing an Architecture degree. It is a relatively large private, non-profit university located in the medium-sized city of New Haven.
Yale’s ranking of #8 out of 2,217 in the Best Colleges list indicates it is an excellent university overall. Graduates from Yale University earn $11,592 more than the average Architecture graduate.
3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Cambridge offers both undergraduate and graduate Architecture programs. The Bachelor of Science in Architecture program has several concentrations, while the Bachelor of Science in Architecture Studies program does not. Both programs require students to take courses in architectural design fundamentals, design software, architectural theory, building systems, and visual art.
MIT also offers dual-degree programs in Architecture and other disciplines, as well as several architectural minors. The NAAB has accredited the school’s Master of Architecture program, but not its Master of Architecture Studies or PhD in Architecture programs.
4. University of Massachusetts Amherst (Amherst, Massachusetts)
The UMass Amherst Department of Architecture offers comprehensive BFA and M.Arch programs that combine technical skills with creative design. The curriculum promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, providing opportunities to work on sustainability, urban planning, and historic preservation projects.
UMass Amherst’s program is well-known for its emphasis on sustainability, with numerous courses and projects focused on green design and environmental stewardship. The school also offers a range of study abroad programs, including exchanges with Architecture schools in New England and Asia.
5. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)
RISD’s Architecture program stands out for its strong integration of art and design. The B.Arch and M.Arch programs emphasize the creative process, encouraging students to experiment with new design solutions. The RISD curriculum combines rigorous studio work with history, theory, and technology courses.
RISD students benefit from cross-disciplinary opportunities with other art and design programs, including industrial design and fine arts. The school’s location in Providence adds a rich cultural context to architectural exploration.
6. Roger Williams University (Bristol, RI)
Roger Williams University offers a B.S. in Architecture and a Master of Architecture (M.Arch) program, with a focus on eco-friendly design and professional practice. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for the challenges of modern architectural practice, highlighting technical proficiency and creative problem-solving.
Roger Williams University ranks seventh among nine Architecture schools in New England and Rhode Island. The school’s commitment to sustainability is evident through its Solar Decathlon team and participation in the United States Green Building Council. Roger Williams also offers study abroad programs, including opportunities to study Architecture in Europe and South America.
7. Keene State College
The School of Professional and Graduate Studies at Keene State College in Keene, New Hampshire, offers a bachelor’s degree in Architecture. This program prepares students for graduate studies or careers in planning, construction management, and environmental design.
Core courses include commercial construction, architectural history, sustainable design, and building science. Students must complete 120 credits of coursework to earn this degree. Although the NAAB does not accredit this program, graduates can apply to an accredited master’s program at another institution.
Conclusion:
These Architecture schools in New England provide a diverse array of educational opportunities, combining traditional and theoretical approaches with cutting-edge technology and sustainable design practices. Whether you’re pursuing a professional bachelor’s or master’s degree, or a non-professional degree, New England’s schools offer robust programs to meet your educational and career goals in Architecture.
