We know that students entering our program come to Illinois with outstanding records of academic achievement, organizational leadership, and public service. The School of Architecture and College of Fine & Applied Arts strive to provide opportunities for design students to apply classroom knowledge in the field, promote sustainable construction technologies, develop public exhibits and education programs, and help individuals and communities in need.

The new Smart Energy Design Assistance Center employs several students each semester to help small businesses across the state use new sustainable building strategies to become more energy efficient and economically competitive. For students with a strong interest in sustainability, these positions provide an incredible opportunity to learn through practical experience. The East St. Louis Action Research Program (ESLARP) lets students from architecture and other disciplines use their minds and muscles to help neighborhoods and individuals in one of the most economically depressed communities in the state. Students can participate in ESLARP through upper-level design studios or volunteer “work weekends” throughout the year.

At Illinois, you won’t be stuck in a design studio with theoretical problems 24/7; the University motto: “Learning and Labor,” reflects how we believe students become professionals. At every level, you’ll have hands-on opportunities to apply and test the knowledge gained from lectures and textbooks. In the process, you will experience the power of design in addressing real-world problems first hand.