Best Architecture Schools - Cornell ranked No. 1

Cornell University, widely recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and innovative teaching methods, has once again established itself as a leader in the field of architecture education. According to the 2017 rankings published by DesignIntelligence in Architectural Record, Cornell University’s undergraduate architecture program retained its position at number one, a testament to the program's consistent quality and the university's outstanding contribution to architectural education. Furthermore, the graduate program at Cornell ranked second, tied with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), further emphasizing its position as one of the most prestigious schools in the architectural world. These rankings reflect Cornell’s success in fostering a comprehensive and forward-thinking curriculum, which combines creative design with rigorous technical training, preparing its students for the complexities of modern architecture.

The undergraduate program at Cornell University is highly regarded for its innovative approach to architectural education. The program encourages students to engage deeply with the principles of design, while also focusing on the technical aspects of architecture, such as structural systems, environmental considerations, and urban planning. This holistic approach to education allows students to develop a well-rounded understanding of architecture, preparing them to tackle the challenges of the built environment. Cornell’s faculty includes some of the most respected architects and educators in the field, ensuring that students receive an education rooted in both theory and practice. The school also benefits from its location in Ithaca, New York, which provides students with a peaceful, academically stimulating environment, while also offering access to various professional opportunities in nearby cities such as New York City.

The university’s graduate architecture program is equally esteemed, and its second-place ranking in the 2017 survey reflects the high regard in which it is held by professionals in the field. Cornell’s graduate students have access to world-class resources and are given opportunities to work closely with faculty and industry experts on a variety of cutting-edge projects. The graduate curriculum at Cornell encourages critical thinking and the development of unique design concepts, while also emphasizing the importance of technical knowledge. Students are exposed to a broad range of architectural topics, from urban design to sustainable architecture, ensuring that they graduate with the skills necessary to succeed in a rapidly evolving field.

Cornell’s consistent top ranking reflects not only its academic rigor but also its commitment to fostering a creative and collaborative environment where students can thrive. The university provides numerous opportunities for students to engage in design studios, research projects, and internships, which help them build the practical experience necessary for a successful career in architecture. Cornell’s reputation for producing graduates who are highly sought after by top architectural firms further cements its position as one of the best schools for architecture in the United States.

Alongside Cornell, the Rice University School of Architecture (RSA) also maintains a prominent place among the top architecture programs in America. In the 2017 DesignIntelligence rankings, the RSA undergraduate program moved up one spot to number four, further solidifying its position among the best architecture schools in the nation. Rice’s architecture program has consistently ranked among the top five schools in the United States since 2011, and this rise in the rankings reflects the ongoing success of the program and its ability to adapt to the changing demands of the architectural profession. Rice University has long been known for its emphasis on design excellence and its strong academic foundation, both of which are integral to the architecture program.

The undergraduate program at Rice University stands out for its focus on fostering creativity and encouraging students to explore innovative design solutions. Rice’s architecture students are encouraged to push the boundaries of conventional design, experimenting with new materials and technologies while considering the social, cultural, and environmental impact of their work. The university’s small size and intimate campus environment allow for a high level of interaction between students and faculty, creating a supportive and collaborative atmosphere that enhances the learning experience. The architecture faculty at Rice includes some of the most prominent figures in the field, ensuring that students receive a cutting-edge education that prepares them for success in the architectural profession.

Rice’s graduate program in architecture also maintains its place among the top ten programs in the country, holding steady at number nine in the 2017 rankings. The graduate program at Rice builds upon the foundation established in the undergraduate curriculum, offering students the opportunity to further develop their design and technical skills while also engaging with contemporary issues in architecture. The graduate students at Rice are encouraged to pursue their own research interests and to explore new design methodologies, ensuring that they graduate with the tools necessary to be leaders in the architectural field.

Syracuse University, another institution that consistently ranks highly in the field of architecture, saw its undergraduate architecture program rise to number three in the DesignIntelligence 2017 rankings. Syracuse’s Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) program has been among the top ten programs in the United States for over a decade, and the 2017 ranking is a reflection of the program’s ongoing success and its ability to produce well-rounded, highly skilled graduates. The B.Arch program at Syracuse is known for its strong emphasis on design, technical proficiency, and practical experience, all of which are key to preparing students for a successful career in architecture.

Syracuse’s B.Arch program offers students a comprehensive education that blends creative design with technical knowledge. The program encourages students to think critically about architecture and to explore new ways of approaching design challenges. In addition to its strong design curriculum, Syracuse’s architecture program also emphasizes the importance of environmental responsibility and sustainability, with many projects and courses focusing on the development of energy-efficient buildings and the integration of sustainable materials and technologies. Syracuse’s location in upstate New York also provides students with access to a rich architectural heritage, as well as opportunities to engage with the vibrant architecture scene in nearby cities like New York City.

The graduate program at Syracuse University also saw an impressive rise in the 2017 rankings, moving up from 11th place in 2016 to 8th place in 2017. The M.Arch program at Syracuse has long been known for its rigorous curriculum and its focus on both design and professional practice. Graduate students at Syracuse are encouraged to engage in research and to explore new methodologies in architectural design, ensuring that they graduate with the skills necessary to succeed in the ever-evolving architectural profession. Syracuse also places a strong emphasis on practical experience, with students given opportunities to work on real-world projects through internships, studio work, and collaborations with industry professionals.

The rise of Syracuse University’s programs, both undergraduate and graduate, is a reflection of the school’s commitment to academic excellence and its ability to adapt to the changing needs of the architectural profession. The university’s strong focus on design, sustainability, and professional practice ensures that its graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and to make meaningful contributions to the field of architecture.

In conclusion, the DesignIntelligence 2017 rankings highlight the continued dominance of Cornell University, Rice University, and Syracuse University in the field of architecture education. Cornell’s undergraduate and graduate programs consistently top the rankings, reflecting the university’s commitment to academic excellence and its ability to produce skilled and creative architects. Rice University’s rise in the undergraduate rankings further emphasizes the school’s reputation for design excellence, while Syracuse University’s impressive showing in both undergraduate and graduate rankings showcases the strength of its programs. These universities, along with others such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, are shaping the future of architecture by providing students with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead in an increasingly complex and dynamic profession.