About Architecture

The Architecture Program prepares students with core skills to advance in the architecture profession and related fields.

For those either just beginning or re-pursuing careers in design of the built environment, the Architecture Department is an excellent starting point. Coursework covers a breadth of subjects that synthesize a variety of interests from human-centered aesthetics and spatial design to practical technologies in drafting, planning, and building. 

Students who complete Curriculum in Architecture qualify for direct entry into employment in various capacities in the building and design industry and are prepared to transfer to professional degree-granting institutions to continue on a path to become licensed architects. 

Explore Potential Careers

Studying Architecture can lead to a variety of different jobs or career paths. Below are just some of the many options you will have!

  • Architecture
  • Interior Design
  • Construction Management
  • Industrial Design
  • Landscape Architecture
  • Urban Design / Urban Planning
  • Fabrication / Maker

Program Options 

Click on the degree or certificate you're interested in earning to see a sample map of courses to take to complete your goal from start to finish. 

Please note that the course maps provided are just an example to help you get started. Course maps may not be up-to-date. Please consult with a counselor/department coordinator for further information.

View Requirements in College Catalog

Semester 1 

Course Number Course Title Units Notes
ARCH 20 Architectural Graphics I 3  
ARCH 100 Introduction to Architecture and Design 2  
ARCH 101 Architecture Design Studio I  
ARCH 127 Fundamentals of Building Structures 3  

Total Units: 11 

Semester 2

Course Number Course Title Units Notes
ARCH 22A Delineation and Rendering 3  
ARCH 29A Freehand Drawing I 1  
ARCH 31B History of Architecture II 3  

Total Units: 7 

Semester 3

Course Number Course Title Units Notes
ARCH 102 Architecture Design Studio II 3  
ARCH 218 Fundamentals of Rhino 3D 3  

Total Units: 6

Semester 3: Choose one of the following

Course Number Course Title Units Notes
ARCH 214 AutoCAD I 3  
BIM 120 Revit Architecture I 3  

Total Units: 3

Semester 4

Course Number Course Title Units Notes
ARCH 103 Architecture Design Studio 3 3  
ARCH 120 Fundamentals of Building Construction 3  
ARCH 160 Professional Practice 3  

Total Units: 9

View Requirements in College Catalog

Semester 1 (FALL)

Course Number Course Title Units Notes
ARCH 20 Architectural Graphics I 3  
ARCH 214 AutoCAD I 3  
ARCH 218  Fundamentals of Rhino 3D  

Total Units: 9 

Semester 2 (SPRING)

Course Number Course Title Units Notes
ARCH 120 Fundamentals of Building Construction 3  
ARCH 22A Delineation and Rendering 3  
BIM 120 Revit Architecture I  3  

Total Units: 9 

Overall Total Units: 18

Transfer Options

The program coursework you complete at City College will satisfy lower-division requirements for related majors at several colleges and universities. Start planning your transfer by exploring Architecture programs at the following institutions: 

  • University of California, Berkeley
  • California College of Art
  • Academy of Art University
  • California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo 
  • California Polytechnic University, Pomona
  • University of California, Los Angeles
  • University of Southern California

Have questions about transfer? Visit the Transfer Center for help, transfer information, and/or to speak with college representatives.