Looking for a college in Wisconsin
Where would be great places to learn if I wanted to go into architecture? #architect
2 answers
Gabriel Figliuzzi
Gabriel’s Answer
Hi Maribell,
Thanks for the question. Below are links to all Wisconsin community colleges that offer architecture programs:
http://www.wistechcolleges.org/explore-careers/program/architectural-design-and-technology
http://www.wistechcolleges.org/explore-careers/program/architectural-structural-engineering-technician
http://www.wistechcolleges.org/explore-careers/program/architectural-commercial-design
http://www.wistechcolleges.org/explore-careers/certificates/architectural-design-software
http://www.wistechcolleges.org/explore-careers/program/architectural-draftingconstruction-technology
http://www.wistechcolleges.org/explore-careers/program/architectural-structural-design
http://www.wistechcolleges.org/explore-careers/program/architectural-technology
http://www.wistechcolleges.org/explore-careers/program/architectural-woodworkingcabinetmaking
There are also two architecture programs available at:
UW-Milwaukee: https://www4.uwm.edu/sarup/
UW-Madison: http://la.wisc.edu/
I hope you find something you'll like and best of luck!
Jean Noel’s Answer
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### 1. University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee (SARUP)
* **The Flagship Pick for Architecture**
UWM’s **School of Architecture & Urban Planning (SARUP)** is Wisconsin’s premier destination for traditional architecture.
* **Degree Pathways:** Offers a 4-year **Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies (BSAS)** pre-professional degree, as well as a NAAB-accredited **Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch)** or **Master of Architecture (M.Arch)** for professional licensure.
* **Why it stands out:** It has dedicated design studios, fabrication labs (3D printing, CNC routing, laser cutting), and strong direct connections to architectural firms in Milwaukee and Chicago for internships.
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### 2. Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE)
* **Best for Architectural Engineering**
If you are more drawn to how buildings function—focusing on structural integrity, building systems, HVAC, electrical design, and construction—MSOE is an elite option.
* **Degree Pathways:** Offers a **Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering (AE)** and a **Master of Science in Architectural Engineering**.
* **Why it stands out:** Very hands-on, high job-placement rate, and focuses heavily on the technical and engineering mechanics behind real-world buildings rather than pure aesthetic design.
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### 3. Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD)
* **Best for Interior Architecture & Spatial Design**
If your interest lies in the design of internal spaces, spatial layouts, and human-centered environments, MIAD provides a studio-intensive environment.
* **Degree Pathways:** Offers majors in **Interior Architecture and Design**.
* **Why it stands out:** Tiny class sizes, art-school environment, and a focus on creative spatial problem-solving, material exploration, and adaptive reuse.
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### 4. University of Wisconsin–Madison
* **Best for Landscape Architecture or Civil/Structural Engineering**
UW–Madison does not offer a traditional NAAB-accredited general architecture degree, but it excels in fields adjacent to architecture.
* **Degree Pathways:** **Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA)**, **Civil Engineering** (with structural tracks), or **Interior Architecture** (via the School of Human Ecology).
* **Why it stands out:** Great if you want a big-ten university experience focused on urban landscape planning, sustainable site design, or structural building engineering.
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### Alternative Pathway: Tech Colleges (2-Year Transfer)
If you want to save money or get technical skills first, technical schools like **Madison Area Technical College (Madison College)** and **Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC)** offer Associate Degrees in **Architectural Technology**. These programs teach CAD, Revit, and drafting, allowing you to enter the workforce as a drafter/technician or transfer credits directly into UWM’s BSAS program.
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