| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Type: Private Architecture School
Location: Los Angeles, California, USA
Founded: 1972
Accreditation: National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB)
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Postgraduate Programs in Architecture
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1 (Small class sizes with personalized attention)
Campus: Located in the Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles, featuring an open-studio environment.
Focus Areas: Digital Fabrication, Computational Design, Urbanism, Robotics, and Experimental Architecture
Global Recognition: SCI-Arc is consistently ranked among the top architecture schools worldwide for its innovative and forward-thinking curriculum.
Highly Innovative Curriculum – Focuses on experimentation, creativity, and real-world problem-solving in architecture.
State-of-the-Art Facilities – Includes robotics labs, fabrication shops, and digital modeling studios.
Globally Recognized Faculty – Many professors are practicing architects and researchers.
Strong Industry Connections – Located in Los Angeles, SCI-Arc offers access to leading architecture firms and design studios.
Diverse & International Student Body – Over 50% of students are from outside the U.S..
Career-Oriented Programs – SCI-Arc has one of the highest employment rates for architecture graduates.
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.)
Duration: 5 Years
Accreditation: NAAB (National Architectural Accrediting Board)
Description: A professional degree focusing on design innovation, digital fabrication, sustainability, and urbanism. Students engage in hands-on projects, research-based studio work, and real-world collaborations.
Master of Architecture 1 (M.Arch 1)
Duration: 3.5 Years (For students with a non-architecture background)
Accreditation: NAAB
Description: Designed for students without prior architecture training, this program offers a rigorous foundation in architectural design, history, theory, and digital fabrication.
Master of Architecture 2 (M.Arch 2)
Duration: 2 Years (For students with a prior architecture degree)
Accreditation: NAAB
Description: Advanced-level program focusing on experimental design, advanced computation, robotics, and new architectural technologies. Ideal for students with a B.Arch. or equivalent architecture degree.
Master of Science in Architectural Technologies (MSArch Tech)
Duration: 1 Year
Description: A technology-driven program exploring AI, robotics, digital fabrication, and computational design in architecture.
Master of Science in Design of Cities (MSDC)
Duration: 1 Year
Description: Focuses on urban design, sustainable city planning, and infrastructure in the modern world.
Master of Science in Fiction and Entertainment (MSFE)
Duration: 1 Year
Description: Merges architecture, digital media, gaming, film, and virtual reality (VR) to push the boundaries of architectural storytelling.
Design of Cities Postgraduate Program
Advanced research into urbanism, city planning, and architectural systems.
Fiction & Entertainment Postgraduate Program
Explores narrative storytelling, world-building, and media in architecture.
SCI-Arc Edge (Specialized Postgraduate Certificates)
Short-term programs for architects and designers looking to expand their skills in digital fabrication, sustainability, or computational design.
SCI-Arc Summer Program (Making+Meaning)
Duration: 4 Weeks
Description: Introductory program for students interested in architecture, focusing on design fundamentals and digital tools.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
5 Years |
$50,892 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Architecture 1 (M.Arch 1) |
3.5 Years |
$52,468 |
|
Master of Architecture 2 (M.Arch 2) |
2 Years |
$52,468 |
|
Master of Science in Architectural Technologies (MSArch Tech) |
1 Year |
$52,468 |
|
Master of Science in Design of Cities (MSDC) |
1 Year |
$52,468 |
|
Master of Science in Fiction and Entertainment (MSFE) |
1 Year |
$52,468 |
World-Renowned Architecture School – Recognized for cutting-edge digital fabrication, robotics, and experimental design.
Located in Los Angeles – Close to leading architecture firms, tech hubs, and creative industries.
Diverse & Inclusive Student Body – Over 50% of students are international.
State-of-the-Art Facilities – Includes robotics labs, fabrication studios, 3D printing, and virtual reality tools.
Strong Career Support – SCI-Arc graduates work at top firms like Zaha Hadid Architects, Gensler, and Morphosis.
Undergraduate (Bachelor of Architecture - B.Arch.)
High School Diploma/Transcripts (translated into English)
Portfolio (Required; should showcase creative and architectural projects)
English Proficiency Test Scores:
TOEFL iBT: 92+
IELTS: 7.0+
Duolingo: 115+
Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Describes academic and career goals
Letters of Recommendation – Minimum 2 required
Copy of Passport
Graduate (Master’s Programs - M.Arch & MS Degrees)
Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture or Related Field
Portfolio (Advanced projects in architecture or design)
English Proficiency Test Scores (Same as undergraduate)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Letters of Recommendation (2-3 Required)
Copy of Passport
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) – $50,892 per year
Master of Architecture (M.Arch 1 & M.Arch 2) – $52,468 per year
Master of Science (MS) Programs – $52,468 per year
Additional Fees:
Student Fees: ~$1,200 per year
Books & Supplies: ~$3,500 per year
Housing & Living Expenses: ~$20,000 per year
SCI-Arc offers merit-based scholarships for international students based on portfolio quality and academic performance. Some options include:
SCI-Arc Institutional Scholarships – Covers up to 50% of tuition based on academic excellence.
Excellence in Design Scholarship – Awarded to students with outstanding portfolios.
External Scholarships – Students can apply for funding from organizations like Fulbright, AAUW, and the World Bank Scholarships Program.
International Student Office – Assists with visa processing, housing, and cultural adjustment.
Academic & Career Counseling – Helps students prepare for internships and job placements.
Housing Assistance – No on-campus dorms, but SCI-Arc helps students find off-campus apartments near downtown Los Angeles.
Events & Workshops – Includes architecture exhibitions, lectures by industry leaders, and networking events.
Step 1: Choose a Program & Check Requirements
SCI-Arc offers Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.), Master of Architecture (M.Arch.), and Master of Science (MS) programs.
Review the portfolio requirements and academic eligibility.
Step 2: Submit an Online Application
Apply through the Common Application (for B.Arch.) or the SCI-Arc Application Portal (for graduate programs).
Pay the non-refundable application fee:
$85 for undergraduate (B.Arch.)
$85 for graduate (M.Arch./MS)
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
For Undergraduate (B.Arch.) Applicants:
High School Diploma & Transcripts – Officially translated into English.
Portfolio – 10-20 pages of creative or architectural work (digital submission).
English Proficiency Test Scores (for non-native English speakers):
TOEFL iBT: 92+
IELTS: 7.0+
Duolingo: 115+
Statement of Purpose (SOP) – 500-1,000 words explaining design interests.
Letters of Recommendation – Minimum two required.
Copy of Passport – For visa processing.
For Graduate (M.Arch. & MS) Applicants:
Bachelor’s Degree Transcripts – Architecture or related field (officially translated).
Portfolio – Advanced design projects showcasing architecture skills.
English Proficiency Test Scores (same as undergraduate).
Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Outlining research and career goals.
Letters of Recommendation – Two or more required.
Resume/CV – Highlighting academic and professional experience.
Step 4: Interview (If Required)
Some applicants may be invited for a video or in-person interview with the admissions committee.
Step 5: Receive Admission Decision
SCI-Arc notifies applicants via email within 4-6 weeks after the application deadline.
If accepted, international students receive an I-20 Form for visa processing.
Step 6: Pay SEVIS Fee & Apply for F-1 Visa
Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee ($350 USD) at.
Schedule a visa appointment at the U.S. Embassy/Consulate.
Bring the I-20 Form, passport, SEVIS receipt, and financial proof for the visa interview.
Step 7: Prepare for Arrival & Orientation
Book travel to Los Angeles, California.
Attend mandatory student orientation at SCI-Arc before classes start.
Program |
Intake |
Priority Deadline |
Final Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) |
Fall (August) |
January 15 |
April 15 |
|
Master of Architecture 1 (M.Arch 1) |
Fall (August) |
January 15 |
April 15 |
|
Master of Architecture 2 (M.Arch 2) |
Fall (August) |
January 15 |
April 15 |
|
Master of Science (MS) Programs |
Fall (August) |
January 15 |
April 15 |
Note:
SCI-Arc does not have a Spring intake—all programs start in the Fall semester (August).
Early applications are encouraged, especially for scholarship consideration.
High School Diploma or Equivalent – Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (recommended).
Portfolio – Required (10-20 pages of creative/architectural work).
English Proficiency (for Non-Native English Speakers):
TOEFL iBT: 92+
IELTS: 7.0+
Duolingo English Test: 115+
Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Explaining interest in architecture.
Letters of Recommendation – Two required (from teachers, mentors, or professionals).
SAT/ACT Scores – Not required but can be submitted.
Bachelor’s Degree –
M.Arch 1 (3.5 years) – For students without a prior architecture degree.
M.Arch 2 (2 years) – For students with a B.Arch. or equivalent degree.
MS Programs (1 year) – For students with design, architecture, or related degrees.
Portfolio – Advanced design/architectural work required.
English Proficiency (for Non-Native English Speakers):
TOEFL iBT: 92+
IELTS: 7.0+
Duolingo: 115+
Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Outlining research and career goals.
Letters of Recommendation – Two to three required.
Resume/CV – Highlighting academic and professional experience.
GRE Scores: Not required for any program.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
|
SCI-Arc Institutional Scholarships |
Based on academic performance & portfolio |
Up to 50% of tuition |
Automatic with admission |
|
Excellence in Design Scholarship |
Exceptional architecture/design portfolio |
$10,000 - $25,000 |
Automatic with admission |
|
International Student Scholarship |
Awarded to outstanding non-U.S. students |
(Partial Tuition) |
Automatic with admission |
|
Need-Based Financial Aid (U.S. Students Only) |
Based on FAFSA financial need assessment |
N/A |
FAFSA Deadline |
|
External Scholarships (AIA, AAUW, Fulbright, etc.) |
Offered by external organizations |
(Full or Partial Funding) |
N/A |
|
Work-Study Program |
On-campus part-time jobs for financial support |
Hourly Wage |
Based on availability |
Facility |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Location |
Los Angeles, California, USA |
|
Campus Type |
Urban, Single Campus |
|
Campus Features |
Open studio spaces, fabrication labs, robotics labs, lecture halls, galleries, library, student lounges |
|
Accommodation Type |
Off-campus housing (SCI-Arc does not offer on-campus housing) |
|
Housing Options |
Private apartments, shared housing, student housing complexes near campus |
|
Average Rent (Per Month) |
$1,200 - $2,500 (varies by location and type) |
|
Utilities Cost |
$100 - $200 (electricity, water, internet, etc.) |
|
Total Estimated Living Cost (Per Month) |
$1,500 - $3,000 (including food, transport, and miscellaneous expenses) |
|
Housing Assistance |
SCI-Arc provides resources and guidance for students to find housing nearby |
SCI-Arc operates in an open studio format, where students work closely with peers and faculty in a collaborative space. The curriculum is rigorous, emphasizing cutting-edge design, digital fabrication, and experimental architecture. Expect long hours in the studio, especially during project deadlines, but also a highly rewarding experience.
Since SCI-Arc is a specialized architecture school, students are deeply engaged in their work, creating a close-knit community. The campus is vibrant with exhibitions, guest lectures, and design workshops. Students frequently interact with renowned architects and industry professionals, making networking a key part of student life.
While academics are demanding, students find time to socialize and engage in extracurricular activities. SCI-Arc hosts design competitions, art installations, and community events. Many students explore Los Angeles' rich cultural scene, including museums, galleries, and architectural landmarks.
SCI-Arc does not have on-campus housing, so students live in nearby apartments or shared housing in areas like the Arts District, Downtown LA, or Boyle Heights. The cost of living can be high, but students often share accommodations to manage expenses. The city offers a mix of urban life, beaches, and outdoor activities, making it an exciting place to study and live.
SCI-Arc has strong industry connections, providing students with internship opportunities, career fairs, and networking events. Many students work on design projects, freelance, or secure internships in top architecture firms while studying.
Life at SCI-Arc is fast-paced, immersive, and creatively stimulating. It’s a place where students push boundaries in architecture and design while building strong connections in the industry. The experience is challenging, but for those passionate about architecture, it’s an inspiring journey.
Career Services: SCI-Arc has a dedicated Career Services Office that assists students with job searches, internships, resume building, and portfolio development.
Job Board: SCI-Arc provides an online job board where firms post job openings and internship opportunities for students and alumni.
Internships: Many students secure internships at leading architecture firms while studying, gaining hands-on experience and industry exposure.
Career Fairs & Networking Events: The institute hosts career fairs, networking sessions, and guest lectures featuring top architects and design professionals.
Graduates from SCI-Arc have gone on to work for prestigious firms, including:
Zaha Hadid Architects
Frank Gehry & Associates
Morphosis Architects
Gensler
Foster + Partners
Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG)
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM)
AECOM
Many graduates also start their own design studios or work in interdisciplinary fields like digital fabrication, robotics, urban design, and research-based architecture.
Entry-level Architect: $55,000 - $75,000 per year
Mid-level Architect (5-10 years experience): $80,000 - $100,000 per year
Senior Architect/Project Manager: $100,000+ per year
Freelance/Independent Designers: Varies based on projects and clientele
SCI-Arc alumni have made significant contributions to architecture and design globally. Some graduates become entrepreneurs, researchers, or educators in prestigious universities and organizations.
SCI-Arc does not guarantee job placements, but its strong reputation, extensive industry network, and career support services help students land jobs in top firms. Students who actively engage in networking, internships, and competitions have higher chances of securing great opportunities.
The acceptance rate of the Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc) is approximately 70-80%, making it a moderately selective institution.
While SCI-Arc has a relatively high acceptance rate compared to some top architecture schools, admissions are based primarily on:
Portfolio quality (a strong design portfolio is crucial)
Academic performance (GPA requirements are flexible, but a good academic background helps)
Statement of purpose (shows creativity, passion, and architectural interest)
Letters of recommendation
Interview (sometimes required for graduate applicants)
960 E 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA
SCI-Arc is situated in the Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles, a vibrant and creative hub filled with galleries, studios, and cultural spaces.
The campus is housed in a historic freight depot, transformed into an open and innovative architectural space.
The urban setting provides students with access to major architecture firms, museums, and networking opportunities within the city.
