<p>Admissions to M.Arch programs is a very competitive process, and can be pretty confusing as well. Unlike a number of other graduate programs admissions isn’t all about numbers. Emphasis is most often placed on a portfolio of creative work. Because you don’t have an architecture background your portfolio will likely be filled with other artistic works. GPA is also important to some extent, but unless you’re below the minimum (usually somewhere around 3.0) you should be ok. A general rule that I’ve heard is the lower your GPA the better your portfolio should be. </p>
<p>Of the particular schools you’ve mentioned UIUC is the least competitive (I believe). I would apply to all the programs you’re interested in, not just those you think you can get into. In M.Arch programs things aren’t nearly as cut and dry as other graduate programs and many people end up being surprised at the results. Good luck!</p>