Here are questions most commonly fielded by our First Year Experience (FYE) Coach, Alicia Guerra. We hope new students will find this helpful. Alicia is available to answer additional questions!
What size monitor do I need?
A 27″ Monitor is ideal for viewing course content, Conceptboard, and Zoom Meetings. More information at Computer Specs and Recs
What size desk do I need for my model?
A 30″x60″ desk would be sufficient for a computer and model making.
What kind of model-making am I doing?
You will be asked to do a mixture of both study models (quick, working models) of your design iterations and presentation-quality models. All models can be made with the required course materials in conjunction with course tutorials. No previous model-making experience is required.
What kind of material am I working with in model-making?
You will be provided with a list of required materials in each course syllabus. All materials are readily available at most art stores. Materials will likely include chipboard, cardboard, basswood. ARH 110 students can preview model making materials needed in the first two weeks of the semester at Advice for First Year Students
How much does the Rhino software cost?
The current cost for a Rhino Student license is $195. This is a one-time fee and this software will be used all years of the architecture program. A 3-month free trial is also available.
Is this program accredited?
Yes, our B.Arch degree is NAAB accredited. Please see Statement on NAAB-Accredited Degrees
Will I get my license through this program?
No, there are specific requirements for licensure that vary by state. Generally, they require passing exams and logging work experience hours in addition to an accredited degree. More information at Architectural License and Licensing Advsiors
What kind of designs am I making?
You will be asked to create conceptual architectural design in your first year and projects will grow in size and complexity through the program. Beyond the first year, you will be working on a community center, library, visitor center on a non-urban site, and multi-family housing. In upper division studio classes, students will be working with engineers and consultants to integrate design and technical parameters of a project. More information at Technical Advisors in Design Studios
Student work examples are included in the studio course pages at Undergraduate Courses
Are Zoom meetings required?
Please plan on either joining zoom meetings live or watching recordings after. For ARH 110 students, more information is at Zoom in Online Studio
Will instructors help me get an internship/job in my first year?
Likely not, the first year requires a large time commitment, and employers are typically looking for students with more than 1 year of school experience. We recommend that students start looking for paid internships after taking LA 485 Tell Your Story: Personal Statement, Portfolio, Resume. Students who live in California can sign up for the AIA California’s internship program which ranges from unpaid shadowships to paid internships. More resources at Career Planning Support
What scholarships are available?
There are many opportunities. A good place to start is by clicking on the “Scholarships” filter on the School of Architecture blog https://architecture.academyart.edu
Here are lists of scholarships compiled by Architects Foundation, AIA California, California Architectural Foundation, AIAS, CIEF Foundation.