Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc)
Pratt Institute
University of Southern California (USC)
Tulane University
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Temple University
University of Oregon
Cranbrook Academy of Art
New York Institute of Technology (NYIT)
Kansas State University
MArch Admissions Competitiveness
I hope this is ok to post here, but I was hoping someone could shed some light on the competitiveness of admissions to MArch I (bachelors other than architecture) programs for me.
I know a lot of this depends on the strength of portfolio, personal statement, and letters of recommendation, so no one is going to be able to say, oh you'll definitely get in here but not here. I just don't know anyone who has ever applied to an MArch program, so I really have no one to compare myself to. I'm having a hard time finding good information on the average GRE scores, GPAs, and other experience needed to be admitted. I feel like I need to know if I have no chance of getting in anywhere and need to make major back-up plans or if I should stop worrying so much.
I have two undergrad degrees. The first in English with a 2.8 GPA and the second in interior design with a 4.0 GPA. My cumulative GPA is 3.4, last 60 credits is 4.0. I scored 680Q/550V/5.0AW on the GRE. I have two years of work experience after the second degree as an interior designer, but for the past 1.5 years I've been working in a totally non-design job. I am slowly taking some of the math/science required/recommended classes at the community college. I took Pre-Calc this summer and got an A, am currently taking Physics, and plan to take Calculus in the spring. I'm not applying to any schools that require these classes be completed before admissions, just before beginning the MArch program.
I'm not applying to Ivies or schools generally considered 1st tier- as of now, my schools applied to range in admissions selectivity from NC State to UVA. Do you think this is the right level of schools for me to aim for? Would it help me any to retake GREs and score a little higher (I'm thinking no)?
If I were you I would consider aiming a bit higher. Don't get me wrong both schools you named are good. However, when I arrived at graduate I was very surprised by the diversity of educations, backgrounds and work experience. On paper you sound like a very solid applicant. Though I do not know where you went to undergrad and I can't speak for your portfolio, recommendations or essays. However, If you believe that those are really strong I wouldn't shy a way from trying you hand a some others schools as well.
to put this into perspective, i went to a state school received a 4yr ba in architecture, had a 3.3 over all/ 3.8 architecture classes, very solid portfolio and 0 work experience/ same gre score as yourself. I was accepted to 2 ivies and 2 other top tier programs, as well as every other school I applied to.
the only thing i would say working against you would be the economy and the rising number of people returning to school.
hope this all helps/ good luck
Thank you, orion, that was very helpful!
Block this user
Are you sure you want to block this user and hide all related comments throughout the site?
Archinect
This is your first comment on Archinect. Your comment will be visible once approved.