In fact, the majority of undergraduates in the department concentrate in architectural design. More than 300 students register in the department each year, of whom about 70 are undergraduates. Approximately 85 percent of the undergraduates in the department go on to graduate school to earn a Master of Architecture degree. Some students, however, have entered directly into the professional field after earning a bachelor's degree. Students with both levels of preparation find jobs not only in architecture, but also as project managers, contractors, developers, and in fields outside the construction industry.
Most states require that an individual intending to become an architect hold an accredited degree.
The preprofessional degree is useful for those wishing a strong foundation in the field of architecture, as preparation for either continued education in a professional degree program or for employment options in architecturally related areas. Every January during the Independent Activities Period, the department organizes an internship program through which juniors, seniors, and first year graduate students work in local architectural offices. This experience provides students with valuable hands-on training.