Architecture

In University of Idaho's Architecture department, you’ll explore and innovate as you turn your ideas into real-world designs. CAA undergraduate and graduate architecture programs allow you to seamlessly blend creativity, practicality and global perspectives while taking your first steps toward professional licensure.

Explore immersive opportunities like designing and constructing a tasting room for a winery in the Snake River Valley. Take a field trip to Portland and Seattle and craft architectural visions for urban centers in the vibrant Pacific Northwest. Be a part of faculty-led study abroad programs with experiences in Singapore/Malaysia, Rome and London (UK) or take part in a year-long cultural study exchange in Finland.

Our cutting-edge and socially conscious architecture program provides you with a foundation in sustainable design and the necessary knowledge and skills for a career in architecture. Whether you choose the serene backdrop of the Moscow main campus or the urban setting of our Boise campus at the Urban Design Center, you’ll find internship opportunities, engaging faculty and staff, supportive student resources and a dynamic learning culture.

Architecture degree programs

Explore the undergraduate and graduate degrees in the University of Idaho Department of Architecture.

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) — Learn how to creatively design and build sustainable structures for the common good as an architecture major. Complete the first two years of the program at the Boise Center or all four years at Moscow. Once you have completed your Bachelor’s degree, your pathway to becoming a licensed architect includes earning a Master of Architecture. U of I students with a 3.0 GPA or higher are automatically accepted to the M.Arch program.

Master of Architecture (M.Arch.) — Earn a master’s in architecture to become a licensed architect. Explore your own architectural interests through your graduate final project. Join the two-year program with your B.S. in Architecture or the 3+ M.Arch. program designed for students with a bachelor's degree in another discipline.

NAAB accreditation

Elevate your educational journey with confidence — CAA’s architecture programs are accredited by the prestigious National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), qualifying you for licensure. Accreditation signifies our programs’ adherence to rigorous standards set by NAAB, reflecting CAA’s unwavering dedication to quality education and professional development. This ensures you can earn credentials to become a licensed architect through our professional degree (M.Arch) path. Learn more about our NAAB accreditation and how it benefits you. 

STEM designation

Our M.Arch program has STEM designation, which means international students can qualify for 36-months of Optional Practical Training (OPT) after they graduate. While they are students, they can participate in Curricular Practical Training (CPT). See the international programs office to get enrolled in those programs.

STEM education integrates Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics into a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach focused on problem-solving, critical thinking and real-world application to prepare students for future careers. It moves beyond isolated subjects to show how these fields connect, fostering innovation, creativity and essential life skills like collaboration and logical reasoning.

Discover what’s next

Take the next step toward a journey of creativity, innovation and career preparation with the College of Art and Architecture. Build your future and the future of those around you with a professional architecture degree.