Architectural Studies Major

What is Architectural Studies?

Architectural Studies is an intersection of design, history, technology, culture, and social impact. The inclusion of “Studies” in the degree name underscores the importance of research in the curriculum, as it involves a deeper understanding not only of buildings but also of the forces that shape them. The Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies is a pre-professional degree in architecture that supports this exploration by promoting flexible pathways and interdisciplinary coursework, giving students agency in their studies at Drexel and beyond.

Why study Architectural Studies at Drexel?

The Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies is a four-year, full-time pre-professional degree that approaches architecture through an interdisciplinary lens. The curriculum begins with a strong foundation in design studios, architectural history, drawing, and digital modeling. Students then select Interdisciplinary Pathway Electives to deepen their understanding of relationships between architecture and other fields. Many choose to expand their experience and explore architectural design and related disciplines through a co-op.

The program emphasizes how built environments interact with physical and social contexts. This focus culminates in the Senior Capstone Research Project, which allows students to research an individual topic of interest. Architectural Studies students have the option to continue their education through one of Drexel’s accelerated BS/MS programs, earning both degrees in five years. Available graduate pathways include Interior Architecture, Design, and Construction Management.

Graduates of the program pursue a range of opportunities. Many continue into advanced degrees in architecture or allied fields, while others enter careers in design, planning, construction, or sustainability. Alumni apply their education to create meaningful impact within communities and the built environment.

Experiential Learning in Architectural Studies 

The BS Architectural Studies program at Drexel is enriched by Drexel's signature cooperative education experience (co-op). Architectural Studies majors can choose to spend six months (two academic terms: Spring/Summer) in their third year working full-time in a professional setting, gaining hands-on industry experience before graduation. Many students find co-op opportunities with leading architecture and design firms in the region, civic and government organizations, and local institutions invested in design innovation. Architectural Studies co-op students have worked as architectural coordinators, research assistants, project support staff, and design interns for such organizations as:

• Steven Holl Architects (New York)
• Ballinger (Philadelphia)
• Gilbane (Philadelphia)
• Van Wyck & Van Wyck (New York)
• City of Philadelphia (Philadelphia)
• Children's Hospital of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia)
• Princeton University (New Jersey)
• Pinemar (Philadelphia Region)
• Precis (Philadelphia Region)

Drexel's Steinbright Career Development Center and Architectural Studies faculty and administration provide resources and assist in co-op selection, giving students a meaningful professional foundation as they pursue careers in architecture, design, planning, and related fields after graduation.

What Skills Will You Learn in an Architectural Studies Program?

• Ability to engage in architectural design processes, from conceptual thinking through iterative development
• Proficiency in digital design and editing tools used across architecture and allied design fields
• Experience with interdisciplinary collaboration and participatory design methods
• Hands-on skills in fabrication and making as integral parts of the design process
• Competency in both qualitative and quantitative research methods applied to the built environment
• Familiarity with AI-integrated design or research workflows in architecture and related disciplines
• Strong visual communication through drawing, modeling, and presentation
• Critical thinking and problem-solving within complex design and social contexts
• Written and verbal communication skills developed through research, critique, and collaborative studio environments

Facilities for Architectural Studies Majors

Architectural Studies students work in light-filled design studios on the fourth floor of the URBN Center, Westphal College's state-of-the-art facility. Studio spaces are supported by lecture halls and fabrication shops in adjacent buildings, all accessible to students around the clock via secure swipe card access.

The URBN Center's ground-floor Hybrid Making Lab provides students with access to high-tech digital fabrication equipment including 3D printers and laser cutters along with traditional analog tools, supporting the program's emphasis on hands-on making and iterative design. Additional computer and photo labs offer access to specialized software and photography lighting, and in-house printing services provide affordable options for plotting and presentation output.

First and second year students are assigned a dedicated studio desk equipped with storage, a tack board, shelving, lighting, and a flat file drawer. Incoming first year students in Architectural Studies are required to purchase a pre-assembled studio kit, ensuring they arrive prepared with the essential materials, tools, and supplies to begin their design education from day one.

Career Opportunities with an Architectural Studies Degree

Students who complete a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies pursue a vast range of careers in different design and construction industry settings, geographies, building typologies, market segments, urban strategies, and design research.

Learn more about Drexel Architecture

Need help deciding which undergraduate Architecture degree is best for you? Want to tour the Architecture facilities at Drexel Westphal, or learn more about how our program prepares students for architecture careers? The Westphal Admissions team is available to answer questions, organize a tour, or connect you with faculty. Contact us at westphaladm@drexel.edu or 215.895.1738.

For more information on the BS in Architectural Studies pathway, visit the Drexel University Undergraduate Architecture Catalog: Architectural Studies.

For more information on both B.Arch. pathways, visit the Drexel University Undergraduate Architecture Catalog: Architecture BArch.

NAAB Required Accreditation Information

Architectural Studies is a four-year, full-time flexible pre-professional program. It combines architectural studies with adjacent fields of interest. Students build a comprehensive knowledge of the discipline, hone design skills, and expand their understanding of architecture. It is not a NAAB accredited degree. It can lead to a dual BS/MS degree at Drexel University or a first professional NAAB-accredited M. Arch. degree at another institution.

Drexel's Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) program is accredited by the The National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). Learn more on the Architecture program page. 

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