Overview

The Architecture degree at Portland State University provides a comprehensive foundation in design experience, cultural history, and technical knowledge. This four-year pre-professional undergraduate programme is designed to prepare students for design positions within architecture firms or for progression into a two-year Master of Architecture degree. Students develop a deep understanding of their ethical responsibility to address social and environmental challenges within urban settings.

Why Architecture at Portland State University?

Located in the heart of a busy urban centre, the School of Architecture is housed in Shattuck Hall, a transformed historic building that offers a dynamic contemporary learning environment. Students benefit from 24/7 access to dedicated studio spaces and a comprehensive range of fabrication facilities, including metalworking, woodworking, digital milling, and 3D printing. The university is also one of a select few participating in the Integrated Path to Architectural Licensure (IPAL), allowing students to work towards licensure requirements concurrently with their studies.

The faculty is comprised of active practitioners and researchers from the vibrant local design community, providing students with direct links to professional networks. Portland serves as a living laboratory where students engage in real-world projects, such as designing public transport interventions or creating sustainable structures for local festivals. These collaborations with community non-profits ensure that academic work has a tangible impact on the city.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 34599 per year
National fee: USD 34599 per year
Local fee: USD 12999 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured around a sequence of required thematic design studios and theoretical seminars. Modules may include:

Drawing
Architectural Interventions
Architectural History
Humanities
Tectonics
Design Principles

Careers with Architecture

Graduates with a B.A. or B.S. in Architecture are well-positioned to enter the professional landscape or continue their education. Many alumni progress to NAAB-accredited Master of Architecture programmes to complete the licensure process. Those entering the workforce immediately often find roles as design staff, draftspersons, or marketing support within acclaimed architecture firms.

Beyond traditional architectural practice, graduates have secured employment as project managers in construction and engineering firms. The versatile skill set acquired during the programme also allows for careers in space design for major retailers, apparel companies, and graphic design. The degree provides the essential foundation for those aiming to become registered professional architects.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Visual Communication
Architecture and Cultural History
Design Studio
Building Tectonics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-30 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-06 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-05 00:00:00
Starting 2027-03-31 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-05 00:00:00
Starting 2027-07-22 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-07-05 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

180 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Portland, United States

Disciplines

Architecture View 315 other Bachelors in Architecture in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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Other requirements

General requirements

You must have a cumulative (overall) grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.5 when converted to the U.S. 4.0 grading scale.
Meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement. You may be admitted to Portland State University and an Intensive English Language Program (IELP) pathway if you do not meet PSU's English Language Proficiency Requirement. Learn more about PSU’s English language programs.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Out-of-State

34599 USD / year

≈ 34599 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

12999 USD / year

≈ 12999 USD / year

Living costs

Portland

United States

1271 - 2262 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Architecture.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Portland

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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