CLEMSON — DesignIntelligence magazine has named Clemson University’s graduate program in architecture one of the nation’s Top 10 programs among all public universities in its annual publication “America’s Best Architecture and Design Schools.” Clemson ranks fourth among public universities in the South. 

The publication also named Clemson architecture professor Daniel Harding one of the “30 Most Admired Educators for 2013.”

The program rankings are based on a survey of leading practitioners with direct experience in hiring and supervising the performance of recent graduates in the architecture and design fields.

“This ranking is particularly meaningful because it shows how design professionals view our Clemson graduates and the faculty who teach them,” said Clemson President James F. Barker. “We are very proud that Dan Harding was recognized as one of America’s best architectural educators.”

Now in its 13th year, the survey is conducted annually by DesignIntelligence for the Design Futures Council, an interdisciplinary network of design, product and construction leaders. Nearly 400 professional practice firms participated, answering the question “In your firm’s hiring experience in the past five years, which of the following schools are best preparing students for success in the profession?” The participants were asked other related questions, such as how programs rate in teaching various skills. 

In naming Harding as an exemplary role model in architecture education, the publication praised his use of design-build techniques in addressing community issues. “The project assignments that he gives to the classes are client-oriented and not frivolous,” according to the publication. “They are real-world relevant, and students are shown how to make themselves indispensable as they relate to economic scenarios of the future.”

Clemson also ranked as one of three programs named as a “Top Brand in Architectural Education” for construction leadership.

“We are proud and happy that the significant accomplishments and ambitions of our faculty, students and alumni are recognized by these rankings,” said Kate Schwennsen, chairwoman of the School of Architecture. “I am particularly pleased to see that our program is seen as a premier producer of design and construction leadership, which is one of our top goals and critically important in this era of challenging and changing project delivery methods and global practice.”

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Clemson University School of Architecture
In addition to the undergraduate and graduate degree programs on the main campus, the School of Architecture has programs in Charleston; Barcelona, Spain; and Genoa, Italy. In 2013, the school will mark its centennial of architecture education with a yearlong slate of events, including lectures, symposia and exhibitions. Learn more at clemson.edu/architecture.