Southern California Institute of Architecture
Los Angeles, United States
- Cost of Living$ 27,876
- Tuition Fee From$ 43,760
- Country Rank#1326
- Batch Strength500
- Global Diversity-
- Gender Ratio-
Overview
About
The Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc) is a private, non-profit institution located in Los Angeles, California. Established in 1972, SCI-Arc is renowned for its innovative approach to architectural education and its emphasis on design, technology, and sustainability.
The institute of architecture has an acceptance rate of 47% and offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programmes in architecture, urban design, and related fields. Its curriculum emphasizes design thinking and hands-on learning, with a focus on experimentation and collaboration.
One of the unique features of the institute is its studio-based learning environment. Students work in teams with faculty and industry professionals to develop design solutions for real-world problems. This approach provides students with practical experience and helps them develop a strong portfolio of work that showcases their skills and creativity.
The institution is also known for its commitment to sustainability and environmental design. The university has a state-of-the-art fabrication lab that allows students to experiment with new materials and construction techniques. It also offers courses and programmes in sustainable design and environmental science.
Ranking
According to DesignIntelligence, Southern California Institute of Architecture was ranked #3 in the 2020-2021 edition of America's Top Architecture Schools for undergraduate programmes and #6 for graduate programmes. In addition, SCI-Arc was ranked #1 for Design Technologies and Computer Applications and #1 for Sustainable Design Practices and Principles. U.S. News & World Report does not rank architecture schools, but SCI-Arc has been recognized by other publications such as Architectural Record, which ranked it #3 in its 2020 list of America's Top Architecture Schools.
Year
QS Ranks
US News Ranks
2023
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Facilities
The Southern California Institute of Architecture provides a range of facilities to support the academic, social, and personal needs of its community. From its state-of-the-art fabrication shop to its exhibition spaces and lecture halls, SCI-Arc provides students with the resources they need to develop their skills and pursue their passions. Some of its widely used facilities include
W.M. Keck Lecture Hall: The Keck Lecture Hall is a state-of-the-art facility that hosts a range of events, including lectures, film screenings, and conferences.
Library: The SCI-Arc library is a resource centre for students, faculty, and staff, with a collection of over 10,000 books, journals, and electronic resources.
Studios: SCI-Arc provides students with individual studio spaces, where they can work on their projects and collaborate with their peers.
Fabrication shop: The fabrication shop is a fully equipped facility that provides students with access to a range of tools and materials, including laser cutters, 3D printers, and woodworking equipment.
Exhibition spaces: SCI-Arc has several exhibition spaces on campus, where students can showcase their work and participate in group exhibitions.
Digital fabrication lab: The digital fabrication lab is a specialized facility that provides students with access to advanced digital technologies, including CNC routers and robotic arm technology.
Student centre: The student centre is a hub of activity on campus, providing students with a place to study, socialize, and relax. It houses a cafeteria, lounge areas, and meeting spaces.
Lecture halls and classrooms: SCI-Arc has several lecture halls and classrooms on campus, which are equipped with the latest technology and support a range of teaching methods.
Housing: The university offers on-campus housing options for students, including furnished apartments and studios.
Notable Alumni
Courses
Admission
Acceptance Rate
Southern California Institute of Architecture's acceptance rate is 65%. The faculty members at SCI-Arc are highly qualified and experienced professionals in the field of architecture and design. They are committed to helping students achieve their academic and professional goals and provide personalized attention and support to each student.
Entry Requirements
Southern California Institute of Architecture is a specialized private university in Los Angeles, California that offers undergraduate and graduate programmes in architecture, design, and related fields. The institute looks for applicants with a strong creative and artistic background, demonstrated through their portfolio and essays. Students also have to pay an application fee of $85. Here are the general entry requirements for undergraduate admission at SCI-Arc:
Undergraduate requirements
- Personal Statement
- SCI-Arc Supplement Question
- Letters of Recommendation
- Portfolio
- Official High School Transcript
- Scores of the English Proficiency test
- ACT/SAT scores
Graduate requirements
- Official College Transcript
- Official GRE Test Scores
- Personal statement
- Resume
- Letters of Recommendation
- Portfolio
Accepted English proficiency test scores
- TOEFL - 92
- IELTS - 7.0
Fees
The institution offers several programmes at different levels. Listed below are the Southern California Institute of Architecture fees based on different courses
- Bachelor of Liberal Arts - $43,760 /Year
- Bachelor Design Studio - $43,760 /Year
- Bachelor of Science [B.S] Applied Studies - $43,760 /Year
- Master of Science [M.S] Design of Cities - $43,760 /Year
- Master of Science [M.S] Architectural Technologies - $43,760 /Year
Placements
The Southern California Institute of Architecture has a dedicated Career Services department that provides students with career counselling, job search assistance, and networking opportunities. The career services team at SCI-Arc works with students and alumni to identify their career goals, prepare resumes, cover letters, and portfolios, and connect them with potential employers. The team also organizes career fairs, networking events, and workshops to help students develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their chosen fields.
Graduates of SCI-Arc have gone on to work for a variety of top architecture firms and design companies across the globe, and many have pursued advanced degrees in architecture, design, and related fields. While there is no guarantee of employment after graduation, the institute's career services department works diligently to help students achieve their career goals and secure employment opportunities.
Scholarship
Regardless of the program you are studying, there are several scholarship opportunities provided by the university as well as other organizations. With so many scholarships available now, overseas students can greatly lower the financial burden of studying in a new country. You can apply for scholarships to study at the Southern California Institute of Architecture through UniScholarz. You can find the following types of scholarships based on your academic performance and financial situation:
- Merit-based scholarships
- Need-based scholarships
- Country-specific scholarships
- College-specific scholarships
- Student-specific scholarships
Finances
Most international students are obligated to show proof of sufficient funds to obtain a visa. While some students may have the opportunity to make use of scholarships, not all students cut the eligibility to get a scholarship or a grant. Moreover, not all scholarships cover 100% of your study abroad expenses. At such times, most students resort to acquiring education loans to avoid the financial hassles associated with studying at the Southern California Institute of Architecture. For Indian students, UniCreds is the ideal education loan marketplace if you’re looking for low-interest rates and free consultation services!
Accommodation
There are several student housing options available for students planning to attend the Southern California Institute of Architecture. You may select from a wide choice of affordable yet elegant student flats, halls of residence, studios, en-suites, and more! You have the option of staying on campus in the university halls of residence or a private residence. Because of their proximity to the university, on-campus housing options may be ideal; nevertheless, they tend to fill up fast and are more expensive.
UniAcco simplifies the process of finding student housing and offers a variety of options. As a result, students can select from a wide range of available student accommodations near the university, such as luxury studios, en-suites, and shared apartments that are more inexpensive and student-friendly.
Cost of Living
Los Angeles is a vibrant city with a diverse population and a rich cultural scene. As the second-largest city in the United States, Los Angeles offers plenty of opportunities for students to explore, learn, and engage in a variety of activities. Living in Los Angeles can be expensive with its cost of living being 7% higher than the state average and 51% higher than the national average. The neighbourhood also plays an important factor in budgeting. Students can choose shared accommodation or housing with utilities included in the rent to save money. Below is a list of the expenses that prospective students should keep in mind.
|
Items |
Cost |
|
Off-Campus Accommodation |
$1,542 |
|
On-Campus Accommodation |
$1,680 |
|
Transportation |
$165 |
|
Food Cost |
$371 |
|
Utility Cost |
$139 |
|
Entertainment |
$60 |
|
Groceries |
$48 |
|
Clothes |
$137 |
|
Health Insurance |
$80 |
|
Total Cost of Living with Off Campus Accommodation |
$2,542 |
|
Total Cost of Living with On Campus Accommodation |
$2,680 |
|
Annual Cost of Living |
$30,504 |