Foundations | Discover Architecture is a virtual series designed for high school students and families exploring architecture and the built environment.
This series brings together architecture students, professionals, and educators to provide a clear, honest look at what it means to study architecture, how programs differ, and the many career paths a design education can lead to.
Whether you’re just beginning to explore architecture or starting to think about college applications, Foundations is designed to help you better understand your options, and find the path that fits you.
Fall 2026 Series | Prepare
Each session focuses on a different stage of the journey, from understanding the profession to preparing for school and exploring long-term opportunities.
Session 1 – Building Your Portfolio
Wednesday, October 28 | 7:00–8:00 PM ET
Learn how to build a strong architecture school portfolio that showcases your creativity, skills, and point of view. Hear from faculty, reviewers, and current students about selecting work, organizing your portfolio, telling a clear story, and including everything from sketches and models to digital work and creative projects outside architecture.
Session 2 – Finding Your Best Fit: Architecture School Connections Fair
Sunday, November 8 | 2:00-3:30 PM ET
Learn how to compare architecture programs and find the school environment where you can thrive. Start with a short conversation about what to look for in a program, then visit breakout rooms hosted by AIAS Collegiate Associates to meet faculty, admissions representatives, and current students. Prospective students and families are encouraged to attend.
Session 3 – Paying for Architecture School
Thursday, December 3 | 7:00–8:00 PM ET
Learn how to plan for the cost of architecture school and better understand the financial resources available to you. Explore financial aid, scholarships, FAFSA, comparing aid offers, and architecture-specific expenses such as laptops, software, supplies, printing, models, and other costs to consider when planning for college.
Spring 2026 Series | Discover
Session 1 – What Does an Architect Actually Do?
Monday, April 13 | 7:00–8:15 PM ET
Learn how architects shape the built environment and hear from students and professionals about the design process, studio life, and what a career in architecture really looks like.
Session 2 – Applying to Architecture School: Portfolios, Costs & Finding the Right Fit
Tuesday, April 14 | 7:00–8:30 PM ET
Understand the different paths to studying architecture—including B.Arch, pre-professional programs, and community college transfers—while learning how portfolios, program styles, and costs vary across schools.
Session 3 – Beyond the Studio: Career Paths in Architecture
Thursday, April 16 | 7:00–8:15 PM ET
Explore the many directions an architecture degree can take you, from traditional practice to interiors, construction, sustainability, and other design-focused careers.
Session 4 – Supporting Your Student’s Path in Architecture
Saturday, April 18 | 11:00 AM–12:00 PM ET
A conversation for parents about the architecture education pathway, licensure timeline, career outlook, and how to support students considering this field.
FAQs
Who should attend Foundations?
Foundations is designed for high school students (grades 9–12) and their families who are interested in architecture, design, and the built environment.
Do I need prior experience in architecture?
No experience is required. This series is designed for students at all stages—from early curiosity to those preparing to apply to architecture programs.
Is architecture only for students who are good at drawing or math?
No—architecture combines creativity, problem-solving, communication, and technical thinking. Students with a wide range of strengths can succeed in architecture.
What is the difference between architecture programs?
Programs vary widely in structure and focus, including 5-year professional degrees (B.Arch), 4+2 pathways, community college transfer options, and programs with different teaching styles such as design-focused, technical, or co-op models.
How long does it take to become an architect?
Architecture is a licensed profession. Most students complete an accredited degree, gain professional experience, and complete exams for licensure. This process typically takes several years but offers long-term career stability and flexibility.
Are there careers beyond becoming a licensed architect?
Yes. Many architecture graduates pursue careers in interior design, construction management, real estate development, sustainability, and other design-related fields.
Resources
Explore additional resources to continue your journey:
- Session Recordings
- All Resources & Links
- AIAS Membership & Opportunities
- ACEMentor.org
- NSLCleaders.org
Have questions or want to learn more? Reach out to us at mailbox@aias.org.
We’re excited to continue this work and will be hosting additional programming this fall. Stay tuned for more opportunities to explore architecture.
