Pre-Architecture – Environmental Design
Program Description
The fast pace and nonstop activity in Gould Hall reflects the vibrant experience that students gain from studying in the College of Architecture. OU's Pre-Arch Environmental Design program brings diverse students together with interests ranging from art to engineering. The core curriculum consists of a strong foundation in studio and professional practices while exposing students to Western humanities and art traditions in supplemental coursework. Upon graduating, students are prepared to program building projects, work with clients, develop designs and specifications, respond to building codes for construction and work with contractors.
College of Architecture students have many opportunities to gain insight from visiting professionals through programs such as the Bruce Goff Chair of Creative Architecture lecture series. Architects, urban planners and professors from around the nation have presented discussions as a part of the lecture series.
The Pre-Arch BSED is often known as the first part of a 4-2 program, meaning students receive their undergraduate degree in Environmental Design and then must complete a two-year NAAB accredited master’s degree in Architecture in order to begin the process of licensure. Students have a studio course every semester they are enrolled in the program in order to form a varied portfolio at graduation. After graduation with their master’s, students normally intern at top firms and take the Architecture Registration Exam in order to become licensed.
Degree Options
A student who graduates with a Bachelor of Environmental Design degree must go on to complete a Master of Architecture and complete any other educational requirements to begin the process towards licensure. Once a Master of Architecture degree that is accredited by the National Architecture Accreditation Board is completed, this degree satisfies one of the pre-requisites for licensure. Please visit arch.ou.edu for more information on the NAAB accreditation. The BSED Pre-Architecture degree may also be followed by graduate study in Landscape Architecture, Regional and City Planning or a variety other graduate programs. Students may also minor in any of the following concentrations: Architecture, Construction Science, Interior Design or a wide variety of minors offered by the University of Oklahoma.
Interests & Skills
Students typically have interests in art, mathematics, science, problem solving, communication and engineering. High school preparation should include study in art, science and mathematics.
Notable Achievements
OU's College of Architecture maintains an international reputation and has graduates practicing all over the nation and world. The college is also known for its innovation and interdisciplinary approach to solving design problems. Past chairmen of OU Architecture have included such celebrated architects as Henry Kamphoefner and Bruce Goff. Both have left their stamps on the program, which fosters creativity and imagination in students while working within a professional curriculum.
Your Future
Types of Employers
Architecture firms
Landscape Architecture firms
Commercial developers
Government agencies
Colleges and universities
Jobs of OU Graduates
Students have gone on to obtain advanced degrees at the following institutions (among other universities across the country):
Rice University
Columbia University
University of Michigan
University of Pennsylvania
Princeton University
University of California, Los Angeles
How much will I make?
Visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ website to explore the median pay for jobs you can pursue with this degree.
Contact Us
College of Architecture
Phone: (405) 325-2444
Email: coa-communications@ou.edu
Website: coa.ou.edu
