Teaching students to think critically and creatively in response to a wide variety of situations is the central goal of the architectural studies curriculum. The University of Illinois provides outstanding resources to support the exploration and acquisition of knowledge. Our students learn to research architectural history and emerging technologies using the resources of the world’s largest public university library. In upper-level studios, through participation in student organizations, and through programs of the pioneering Illinois Leadership™ Center, students learn to work in interdisciplinary teams that reflect the realities of contemporary architectural practice.

In design studios, students work closely with experienced faculty members in developing solutions to complex architectural problems. Since architectural design problems are open-ended, students must find creative and well-reasoned justification for their design decisions. Students learn how to clearly explain and defend these decisions to others by presenting their work to professors, graduate students, and visiting professionals during studio project reviews. Reviews help students develop confidence and gain experience presenting architectural ideas within a supportive educational setting. Students can also take classes in oral communication and business writing to further develop these skills and fulfill general education requirements.

At Illinois, we’ll challenge you to think critically from day one, and we’ll provide all the support you need to do so. With low student-instructor ratios in studios, small discussion sections, and a friendly academic advising staff, we’ll help you succeed in the classroom and think outside the box.