Fundamental design, ethical awareness, and liberal arts prepare students for the upper division courses in which students engage with the profession within and beyond the classroom through a rich array of field trips, firm visits, networking events, and internship opportunities. Our rigorous design studio curriculum prepares students to contribute meaningfully to the built environment. Students gain critical thinking and research skills, in addition to design and technical skills, to be prepared for the evolving profession.
The Bachelor of Architecture program is accredited by NAAB and satisfies the education component of the US architectural licensure requirements. The length and outcomes of all B. Arch programs must follow NAAB Criteria. The 150-unit program applies to students who entered the program in Fall 2025 and after. View course descriptions
The B. Arch IPAL track is a shorter path to architectural licensure in the states that accept the IPAL program. Students simultaneously complete requirements for Education, Experience, and Examination by accruing work experience in architecture and taking licensing exams while taking classes. Students are supported in applying for jobs, that qualify towards licensure requirements, through coursework and mentorship. IPAL track students take reduced course loads to balance course work with professional work while also taking licensure exams. Students who complete all three requirements are eligible to be licensed upon graduation. In Northern California, Academy of Art University is the only Architecture School that offers the IPAL program as of 2025.
The Bachelor of Arts in Architecture (BA) program provides a robust foundation in architectural design. The ability to define a problem, work through design iterations, and refine solutions are some of the transferrable skills that will prepare you for careers within and beyond architecture. With an emphasis on building strong portfolios, you can pursue graduate school or careers in architecture and related fields. Curricular flexibility means you can select courses that best meet your career goals. In California, the BA degree offers a modified path to architectural licensure. This program is not NAAB-accredited and may not be accepted as meeting architectural licensure requirements in other U.S. states. View course descriptions
The 60-unit Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program in Design of Built Environments (DBE) prepares students for entry level employment in the fields of Architecture or Landscape Architecture. In the first year, students are introduced to both fields. In the second year, students declare emphasis either in Architecture or Landscape Architecture and the paths diverge. After completing the AAS program, students have the option to seamlessly transition to BA in Architecture or BFA in Landscape Architecture. View architecture course descriptions. View landscape architecture course descriptions.