Expert: John Henry Architect - 12/2/2008

Question
Hi, I'm a homeschooling student planning to go to college, and I've been thinking about different options in the area of architecture.  Firstly, I have three main interests - architecture, studio arts, and environmental studies.  My ideal career path would be combining all of these in a community-oriented, ecologically-aware design firm (cohousing and new urbanism particularly intrigue me).  But I'm not sure of the best way to pursue this.  What are your thoughts on attending a four year liberal arts college (perhaps double-majoring in visual arts and environmental studies), and then going to a graduate school for architecture?  Would I be able to get into a good grad program without a specifically pre-architecture degree?  Would I need to spend 3 or more years to complete a professional degree unless I majored in architecture as an undergrad?  Do you know off-hand of any liberal arts schools with especially architectural focuses?  Many thanks for your time!

Answer
If new urbanism is the main line of interest, investigate schools that tout this specialty.  Harvard has a great reputation.
I also was not clear about which degree was best for me.
I attended Texas A&M's Environmental Design program and then continued in their Master degree.
The ED route is a 4 year general program that does not offer a professional degree in architecture.
The minimum time to qualify for a B Arch is 5 years and most schools of architecture offer this.
If you elect to try the ED program your first professional degree would be either by transferring to a 5 year track or to attend two more years for a Master.
The ED + Master program (you will have to check which schools currently offer this, Berkeley started the system) might accept you in their Master degree without a pre-arch degree.  Again, you will have to investigate.  The best bet is to talk to admissions in your preferred school to see which courses would transfer fully towards a professional degree.