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Program at a Glance

Program
Bachelor
College(s)
College of Arts and Humanities
Department(s)
Visual Arts & Design, Schl of
U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges - Most Innovative 2026

Why Study Architecture?
Architecture is where creativity meets impact. Unlike related fields, architecture brings together design, technology, culture, sustainability, and problem-solving to shape the built environment and influence how people live, work, and interact. Architecture students learn to think critically, visualize ideas, and turn concepts into real spaces — skills that are highly transferable and deeply relevant in a rapidly changing world. If you’re driven to design with purpose and leave a lasting mark on communities, architecture offers a uniquely powerful path.

Why Study Architecture at UCF?
At UCF, architecture education is hands-on, forward-thinking, and connected to real-world practice. Our program emphasizes design excellence, emerging technologies, and social and environmental responsibility — all within a collaborative studio culture that mirrors the professional environment.

Located in one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, UCF Architecture benefits from strong ties to industry partners, design firms, and community organizations, giving students access to internships, networking, and experiential learning. As part of a major research university, students also benefit from interdisciplinary opportunities across engineering, digital media, sustainability, and urban planning—preparing them to lead in a complex, global profession.

Career & Graduate School Opportunities
Graduates of UCF Architecture are prepared for a wide range of professional and academic paths, including:

  • Architectural design and practice
  • Urban design and planning
  • Interior architecture and spatial design
  • Sustainable design and building performance
  • Construction, development, and project management
  • Design technology, visualization, and digital fabrication

Many students continue on to graduate programs in architecture, design, urbanism, or related fields, while others move directly into professional offices, public agencies, or design-driven industries. The skills developed in the program — creative thinking, technical proficiency, and collaborative problem-solving — are in high demand across multiple sectors.

Important Program Information
Location: The UCF Architecture program is located on the Valencia College West Campus, providing students with a focused studio environment while still being part of the UCF community. Students should expect a studio-based curriculum that is immersive, collaborative, and time-intensive — much like the profession itself. This structure fosters close faculty mentorship, peer learning, and a strong sense of design culture.

Studio test for incoming students: Architecture is a highly competitive and rigorous program. A prerequisite to joining the program and enrolling in Design 1, prospective students must successfully complete a studio test and rank in the top group of test takers during the spring semester prior to starting classes in the fall. 

Pin-Up: A competitive portfolio review and exhibition of a student’s best lower-division architectural studio work. It’s a central part of how the School of Architecture selects students to continue into the upper-division (third and fourth years) of the program.

Highlights

Studio-driven education with real-world relevance
Strong industry & community connections in Central Florida
Part of a top public research university with interdisciplinary opportunities

Undergraduate Application Deadlines

Fall
May 1
Spring
November 1
Summer
March 1
Fall
June 1
Spring
November 1
Summer
March 1
Fall
March 1
Spring
September 1
Summer
January 1

Ready to get started?

Career Opportunities

UCF prepares you for life beyond the classroom. Here, you’ll experience a wide range of opportunity, like learning diverse skills from world-renowned faculty to networking with top employers across Central Florida to gaining first-hand experience in internships nearby. Achieve your degree and more as a Knight.
  • Architect
  • Architectural Drafter
  • Building Inspector
  • Civil Engineer
  • Contractor
  • Furniture Designer
  • Industrial Engineer
  • Interior Designer
  • Real Estate Appraiser
  • Set Designer

University of Central Florida Colleges