Have you heard of Quacquarelli Symonds? Along with the Times Higher Education World University Rankings and Academic Ranking of World Universities, QS is one of the most influential rankings for prospective students to reference when considering which schools to apply to. Their criteria for assessing which schools are among the best around the world, they focus on three main factors; the schools’ academic reputation, employer reputation, and the impact the school has made throughout their research. So, when you are conducting your research and wondering which are the top universities around the world which have renowned architecture programs, you should use these sources as a reference. Do note however, that there are many schools that are not on the list which provide adequate and profound architectural studies, not all schools make it to the top of the list, but that doesn’t mean that you have to get discouraged with your choice of university. At the end of the day, it is up to you to make the best with the education that you are given, and work hard in order to have rewarding results. Nevertheless, it is good for you to know what other school’s rankings are and what it takes for you to be considered for application to their programs. Since there are many schools among the list, we thought we’d share with you the 10 top architectural programs around the world according to QS’ 2019 ranking.
- The Bartlett School of Architecture | UCL (University College London) / United Kingdom
Recently taking MIT’s place as number 1, this school is known for its award-winning innovative research and the rigorous program that it provides for its students. Among many of the featured projects and research done by its students, the school is committed in providing grounds for students to build a better future.
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) / United States
I’m sure that you have hear of MIT at some point while you were not even thinking about which school to go to. That is why because MIT has been one of the top schools in the US for engineering, computer sciences and architecture for a long time now. This school has managed to consistently stay as one of the front runners for architecture and will continue doing so with their introduction to modernism in the United States.
- Delft University of Technology / Netherlands
As far as the world rankings have continued to indicate this particular university’s position in the architectural field, they have seen a steady rise in recent years, which only suggests that their position will continue to get stronger over the years. Their campus stretches over 161 hectares and is known to be one of the largest campuses in the world.
- ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology) / Switzerland
Ranked among the best universities for science and technology, the department of architecture at ETH has been featured countless times by different architectural programs for their collaborations, research, and innovative projects in the field.
- Harvard University / United States
This school needs no introduction, Harvard has proven to be at the top of the curve when it comes to education and its notable alumni. Their department’s philosophy mixes investigation and exploration of the current built environment and encourages its students to expand on the challenges that architecture faces today. Their graduates continue to innovate in the new approaches that modern society practices by introducing new ways of thinking in the architecture profession.
- University of California, Berkeley (UCB) / United States
The architectural program at Berkeley provides different opportunities for students interested in the field. Specializing in different areas of design that enables its graduates to establish a strong foundation that will lead them to employment among the most renowned practices around the world.
- University of Cambridge / United Kingdom
If you haven’t heard so already, the department of architecture at Cambridge provides an excellent learning environment as it has a great student to staff ratio. Providing collaborative environment where students can learn from ground-breaking practitioners.
- National University of Singapore (NUS) / Singapore
Their four-year program is comprised of exploration, and a wide range of creative routes that fulfill their design and research interests. Many of the prominent architects from Singapore make part of the talented alumni list and are now influential practitioners in projects all over the world.
- Manchester School of Architecture / United Kingdom
This school collaborates closely with Manchester Metropolitan university and the university of Manchester, therefore giving its students the privilege of being able to use the studios and the facilities of both institutes. The school has managed to stay in the top 10 since its inception in 1996.
- Tsinghua University / China
Finally, we have Tsinghua University to finish our list. This establishment is ranked in the number 1 spot in China. Today, this school continues to be successful in in cultivating professional leaders among the industry’s best. With a high reputation in their excellent quality in education and research, this is a great school for you to consider.
At Architect-US, we’ve seen countless portfolios and resumes from architects from all over the world. Just about from every place you can think of, and rest assured that those interested in the J1 Visa Program that have applied, are not only candidates that have gone to schools from this list only. There are many schools out there that offer quality architectural programs. We just wanted to give you an idea of which some of the highest ranked schools are. If you have any questions, make sure to reach out to our team. We’d be happy to help!
