March2 program UIUC VS UT-AUSTIN VS USC which is better?

momrath
Tue, 25 Mar 2014 01:48:34 +0000

I don’t have any insider information about any of these programs, so these are general points of consideration when choosing a school. Of course, you need to think about the design focus of each school and how it aligns with your own interests: these are more practicalities.


What is your undergraduate degree? This will make a difference in the time that it takes to finish the M.Arch. If you don’t have a B.Arch, check the NAAB accreditation of the M.ArchII programs.
What is your financial situation? How much grant money have the M.Arch programs offered? Is it guaranteed for the duration of the program? How much debt will you have to absorb?


Do they offer paid teaching assistant-ships? What do you have to do to get one?


Where do you see yourself living and working after graduation? Does the program have connections in that area?
Which firms offer summer internships, recruit graduates?
Have you visited? Do they have an admitted student weekend? Will they pay for your transportation so that you can visit?


Much can be said for Austin, Illinois AND Los Angeles, but they are all very different so make sure you’re comfortable with the location.