From classical to gothic to postmodernism, architectural inspiration emerges in every corner of the world. Gaze at La Sagrada Familia in Spain, gape at the Colosseum in Italy, and gawk at the Himeji Castle in Japan. Many of the best countries to study architecture offer quality programs, hands-on international experience, and unique perspectives. Wherever you choose to study architecture abroad, you’re sure to impress future employers with a portfolio that demonstrates the abilities you learned abroad!
Wondering where to study architecture? There are a LOT of incredible places to explore.
If you’re not sure where to study architecture, consider future career opportunities, architecture trends, and course options. Are you more drawn to ancient styles or modern principles? Some programs lean more towards drawing and design, others on technological resources, and others focus on practicality and environmental sustainability. The architectural surroundings, top universities, and program offerings helped to create this list of the best countries to study architecture.
Where to study architecture this year
1. England
England knows no bounds when it comes to the eclectic styles of architecture, from the Roman Baths to the Westminster Abbey to the Shard. Employers around the world revere architectural degrees from England. Some of the best universities in England to study architecture abroad include the University of Bath, the University of Cambridge, and the University of Sheffield.
England’s architectural programs also provide top technology resources and quality facilities, and many companies list England as the best country for architecture studies. Many programs offer stimulating courses that foster creativity and curiosity while focusing the majority of time on design work.
Recommended programs:
2. China
Beijing is a modern marvel, and an excellent location to study architecture abroad.
If you’re up for architectural inspiration that spans over a millenia, China is the country for you! You’ll gain an opportunity to view architecture from an Eastern perspective while picking up some Mandarin along the way. Chinese architecture emphasizes bilateral symmetry, timberwork, feng shui principles, and more.
China offers many top universities to study architecture, which include Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Tsinghua University, and Tongji University. Many programs focus on providing a strong foundation for students while emphasizing human-centered building within a global context.
Recommended programs:
3. Italy
What better place to be surrounded by iconic landmarks while sipping espressos?! The diverse architectural achievements of Italy range from the Leaning Tower of Pisa to the Dome in Florence to the modern-day skyscrapers.
Many of the architecture programs in Italy are quite rigorous with foundational principles and theories along with laboratory work and internships. You can find many programs that offer Italian language courses while architectural courses are taught in English. If Michelangelo and Da Vinci are your spirit animals, you’ll feel at home in no time in Italy!
Recommended programs
- International Study in Architecture (Summer Course)
- Temple University Rome: Semester/Academic Year Program
- View ALL Architecture Programs in Italy
4. Japan
The juxtaposition of wooden temples and modern towers make Japan an exciting place to study architecture abroad. Plus, with so many bicycle-friendly areas, you’ll have ample opportunities for daily sightings of fascinating structures.
Many Japanese architecture programs place a high consideration on designing structures that keep in mind the people who will be using them. You’ll learn how to focus your efforts on creating a structure that harmonizes with the surrounding environment. The University of Tokyo and Kyoto University are some of the top places to study architecture in Japan.
Recommended programs:
- IES Abroad: Study Abroad & Intern
- CIEE Ancient + Modern Japan in Kyoto, Japan
- View ALL Architecture Programs in Japan
5. France
The Louvre is someplace you need to see to believe.
The creme de la creme of fashion, art, and architecture! From the famous Arc de Triomphe to the Notre Dame to the Palace of Versailles, French architecture has embodied sophisticated and innovative styles over many centuries.
Many of the programs will take students to various cities and towns throughout the country, so you’ll be able to see the many architectural styles of France. Architecture internships in France will also help you complete studio coursework while making valuable connections. Not only that, but you’ll have ample opportunities to learn the most romantic language in the world!
Recommended programs:
6. Spain
Spain’s unique blend of architectural styles from traditional to modern is as delightful as paella itself. The Romans and Moors influenced many of Spain’s historical buildings, creating the Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque styles that have emerged over the years among Spain’s stunning structures.
Many students who study architecture in Spain enjoy dynamic atmospheres in family-oriented environments and quality design courses. Many architectural courses in Spain are in English or Spanish, offer personalized attention, and international internships. Plus, who wouldn’t love to dance the flamenco, learn Spanish, and experience a Mediterranean climate?
Recommended programs:
7. Australia
What’s more iconic than the Sydney Opera House with its expressionist design and shell-like panels? If you’re wondering where to study architecture abroad for contemporary principles, Australia teems with architectural designs that are modern, exotic, and derivative of other styles.
You’ll also find a wealth of architectural programs that emphasize sustainable construction and aesthetic designs. Many of the universities in Australia are in the top 1% of architectural programs as well. Not only that, but the diverse people, unique landscapes, and adventurous activities will provide you with one-of-a-kind experiences that will expand your perspectives!
Recommended programs:
- Study Abroad for a Semester at Deakin University Australia
- AIFS Study Abroad in Perth, Australia: Semester or Year
- View ALL Architecture Programs in Australia
8. United Arab Emirates
In Dubai, you can find the tallest building in the world — so why not head there to study architecture abroad?
The Burj Khalifa and other formidable modern skyscrapers in the United Arab Emirates draw international students from all over the world for architecture study abroad programs. Students can learn more about traditional Arab designs and how to use efficient materials in challenging landscapes.
The rapid development and urbanization of the United Arab Emirates, along with being the second-safest country worldwide, also make it an attractive place. Plus, the majority of the population speaks English, and many university classes are taught in English. However, you could learn some Arabic along the way too!
Recommended programs
- CIEE Business, Engineering, Arts & Sciences in Sharjah, UAE
- View ALL Architecture Programs in the United Arab Emirates
9. The Netherlands
The Netherlands ranks as one of the best countries to study architecture, with innovative and dynamic programs. Many programs also offer a range of disciplines in architecture, and they support student academics with practical projects.
You can also choose to study in the summer or for a semester, and many classes are taught in English. Additionally, the Delft University of Technology ranks highly as one of the top universities to study architecture. The bike-friendly culture, weaving canals, and inviting locals also make the Netherlands an alluring place for international students.
Recommended programs:
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Find the best country for architecture studies for YOU!
You now know the best countries to study architecture abroad based on quality program offerings and range of disciplines! Which country’s architectural nuances inspire you the most to learn their principles for your own architectural style?
Many top universities to study architecture abroad are in Europe, but the Middle East and Asia also offer unique perspectives for architecture study abroad students. You can also choose to study architecture abroad for a summer, a semester, a year, or earn a degree abroad in architecture!
You can even find many programs that tour through multiple countries within a continent so you’ll become well-rounded in architectural viewpoints. Not only that, but you’ll have many opportunities to network with architectural firms, pick up other languages, and gain practical experiences for your portfolio.
Many architecture study abroad programs not only incorporate guided tours and sightseeing, but they also include internships for a more robust experience. In an increasingly competitive job market, why not give yourself an edge and study architecture abroad?
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