25 Top Architecture Schools in the Philippines
The Philippines hosts a congregation of highly revered architecture schools, also individually tuning their curricular offerings with a meticulous balance between theory and practice.
In this article, we will provide a comprehensive list outlining the top architectural schools in the Philippines with their location, type, and degree in architecture each school offers.
This guide will help students make informed decisions in their architectural education.
Architectural Education in the Philippines
Generally, architectural education in the Philippines is supposed to provide a deep foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of the academic discipline. It primarily aims at grooming professionals for varied challenges within this very profession by designing buildings that shall serve well.
Structure of Architectural Programs
However, most architecture programs in the Philippines result in a Bachelor of Science in Architecture (B.Sc. Arch.) as the first professional degree awarded to students. It typically involves a five-year program with mixed classroom instructions, studio work, and practical experience. Core subjects will include:
- Design and Planning: Fundamental concepts of design, urban planning, and site development.
- History and Theory: Study of architectural history, theories, and philosophies.
- Building Technology: This involves the study of materials, types of construction, and structural systems.
- Environmental Systems: Sustainable design, energy efficiency, and environmental impact.
- Professional Practice: The legal, ethical, and business parts of architecture.
Professional programs at the master’s level, including the Master of Science in Architecture, for advanced study in these or other fields of specialization like urban design, landscape architecture, and architectural conservation.
Accreditation and Standards
The Commission on Higher Education ensures the quality of architectural education in the Philippines by setting standards for the curriculum, qualification of faculty members, and facilities. Further programs are accredited through a professional organization, United Architects of the Philippines and the Philippine Institute of Architects, to ensure that curriculums meet all industrial standards and produce competent graduates.
Licensure and Professional Development
All the graduates of the architectural program will culturally take the licensure architectural examination, which is being furnished by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), to bestow licensed and practicing registered architects. The examination shall cover areas under the practice of designs, structures’ wholeness, and professional practices within architectural services. Conferences and high-level seminars and studies are continuously encouraged for those professionals to keep abreast of the unfolding trends and the technology in portrait, as it is a constantly unfolding scenario.
25 Best Architecture Schools in the Philippines
Here are some of the best schools to study architecture in the Philippines:
1. University of Santo Tomas (UST)
- Location: Manila, Metro Manila.
- Type: Private.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. Architecture, M.Sc. Architecture.
Source: Wikidata.
UST was established in 1611 and is among the earliest in Asia. The program in the College of Architecture is designed in a solid, holistic pattern that mixes every core of the two groups of practice, either traditional or modern mode of architectural folio. Sustainability, preservation of historical and other avante-garde architectural kinds of solutions, studios, and libraries are just among a few of the good facilities available there and staffed by good, experienced faculty members simultaneously practicing within the market domain.
2. University of the Philippines Diliman (UPDI)
- Location: Quezon City, Metro Manila.
- Type: Public.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture, M.Sc. in Architecture.
Source: Great Runs.
The UP Diliman College of Architecture is the country’s top public institution in architecture. The college foresees a broad undertaking of academic offerings, with tracks in urban planning, landscape architecture, and environmental design. As such, it is a highly research-oriented study program that fosters the ability to search for new and realizable architectural solutions for sustainability. The facilities of UP Diliman and the faculties related to it comply with the latest techniques and are highly respected by architects and researchers.
3. De La Salle University (DLSU)
- Location: Manila, Metro Manila.
- Type: Private.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. Architecture, MSc. In Architecture.
Source: Coconuts.
The College of Architecture at DLSU dedicates itself to promising infusion with architectural education for the spirit of sustainable development. The main focus of the curriculum is developing creativity, boosting technical skills, and instilling ethical values. The university has high-tech facilities that include design studios with the latest technology and a well-equipped library. Industry engagement, such as internships and real projects with the best architectural companies, remains a main focus that DLSU encourages.
4. Mapúa University
- Location: Manila, Metro Manila.
- Type: Private.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture.
Source: www.mapua.edu.ph.
Mapua University is known for its strong emphasis on engineering and technological applications in architecture. The School of Architecture, Industrial Design, and the Built Environment offers a curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Students have access to advanced computer laboratories, design studios, and workshops. The university’s location in Manila provides numerous opportunities for real-world learning and industry connections.
5. Ateneo de Manila University
- Location: Quezon City, Metro Manila.
- Type: Private.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture.
Source: NOLISOLI.
The Department of Fine Arts in Ateneo provides majors in the Bachelor of Fine Arts under the program of Information Design, which combines courses related to architecture. Based on the liberal arts approach, the program imparts broad knowledge of the cultural, social, and environmental contexts in design. This provides students with small classes and personal instructions, together with extensive opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.
6. University of San Carlos
- Location: Cebu City, Cebu.
- Type: Private.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. Architecture, M.Sc. Architecture.
Source: PHL In-Net.
Considered the country’s best school outside Metro Manila, the best architecture school has to be USC’s School of Architecture, Fine Arts, and Design. This school features a pragmatic, comprehensive curriculum, or one giving great emphasis on research and negates community-based projects. USC also allows students access to modern facilities like the design studios, a library for materials, and an advanced computer laboratory. It aids each in gaining excellent networking with the industrial partner for the easier running of internships and job placements at the end of studies.
7. Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP)
- Location: Manila, Metro Manila.
- Type: Public.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture.
Source: PHL In-Net.
An affordable yet quality architectural education could be had in PUP. The College of Architecture and Fine Arts prides itself on the practice-oriented background of a curriculum with enormous studio work, technical drawing, and the technology of building. PUP’s strategic location in Manila allows student-faculty interaction with numerous architectural projects and professionals through walking and public transportation.
8. Far Eastern University (FEU)
- Location: Manila, Metro Manila.
- Type: Private.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture.
Source: Far Eastern University.
FEU’s Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts is celebrated for its historic campus designed by National Artist Pablo Antonio. The program emphasizes contemporary architectural practices while respecting historical and cultural heritage. Students are trained in sustainable design, urban planning, and heritage conservation. FEU’s location in the heart of Manila provides a vibrant environment for architectural exploration.
9. Saint Louis University
- Location: Baguio City, Benguet.
- Type: Private.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture.
Source: Sheen Stein EduTech.
SLU’s School of Engineering and Architecture is one of the leading critical institutions in Northern Luzon. The Architecture Program provides direction in sustainable design and environmental planning. The studio and fieldwork projects integrated into the architectural curriculum ensure students obtain varied experience. The university is equipped with design studios, computer labs, and an architecture library, among other modern facilities that are well-furnished.
10. University of Baguio (UB)
- Location: Baguio City, Benguet.
- Type: Private.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture, M.Sc. in Architecture.
Source: University of Baguio.
The School of Engineering and Architecture at UB offers a dynamic program in architecture linked with design, technology, and sustainability. The curriculum includes practical training through internships and community projects. UB’s scenic campus provides the most stimulating learning environment one could wish for architectural studies, with access to modernly equipped design studios and research facilities.
11. Technological University of the Philippines (TUP)
- Location: Manila, Metro Manila.
- Type: Public.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture.
Source: Kami.com.ph.
TUP is synonymous with the pursuit of technical education. Curriculums in the College of Architecture and Fine Arts are devised with an emphasized learning nature of building technologies, structural design, and skills application. Add that to the tuition fee, which is cost-effective, and the modern facilities make TUP an attractive university for architecture students.
12. Cavite State University
- Location: Indang, Cavite.
- Type: Public.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture.
The Cavite State University College of Engineering and Information Technology houses a complete architecture program that revolves around sustainability principles and community-based design. Well-equipped studios, at-par computer laboratories, provision of fieldwork opportunities, and internships are conducted for students.
13. University of the East, Caloocan
- Location: Caloocan City, Metro Manila.
- Type: Private.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture.
Source: GMA Network.
Courses in the College of Fine Arts, Architecture, and Design of UE Caloocan emphasize not just good design but marrying this with technology. Subjects also include Urban Planning and Environmental Design, with exposure to Architectural theory discussion. UE has modern facilities and opportunities for practical experience through internships and collaborative projects.
14. Negros Oriental State University
- Location: Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental.
- Type: Private.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture.
Source: LinkedIn.
Negros Oriental State University offers an interdisciplinary college of Engineering and Architecture. It has a curriculum that is balanced concerning design, technical courses, fieldwork, practices that are aimed at sustainability, and community engagements by the learners in practice.
15. Ateneo de Davao University
- Location: Davao City, Davao del Sur.
- Type: Private.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture.
Source: Wikipedia.
Located within the complex of Ateneo de Davao, the best teaching grounds in architectural design and theory; considered deeply concerned by sustainability and community-oriented design works, a student is assured of obtaining a bachelor’s degree in design from the best. Furthermore, the university provides modern facilities like design studios, computer labs, and a well-stocked library.
16. Cebu Institute of Technology-University
- Location: Cebu City, Cebu.
- Type: Private.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. Architecture.
Source: Rappler.
The College of Architecture and Fine Arts at CIT University exposes students to a study program focused on a worthwhile technical skill-based curriculum complemented by creative design knowledge. It also offers classrooms on sustainable designs, landscape architecture, and urban planning. CIT offers advanced facilities with practical experiences crucial to the industry’s significance through well-powered internships and community collaborations.
17. Bulacan State University
- Location: Bulacan, Malol.
- Type: Public.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture, B.Sc. in Landscape Architecture.
Source: Wikidata.
The Bulacan State University College of Architecture and Fine Arts has a complete line-up of programs, including undergraduate courses in Architecture and Landscape Architecture. Highly design, technology, and sustainable-based curriculum. Some of the modern facilities made available by the university include advanced studio space, computer labs, and materials libraries.
18. University of Saint Louis
- Location: Tuguegarao City, Cagayan.
- Type: Private.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture.
Source: PChome Online.
The College of Engineering, Architecture, and Information Technology Education at the University of Saint Louis offers not only a solid course base in architecture but also a focus on sustainable and community-based design, enriched by comprehensive studio work and fieldwork through internships.
19. Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila
- Location: Manila, Metro Manila.
- Type: Public.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture.
Source: i heart manila.
PLM’s College of Architecture and Urban Planning offers a curriculum that integrates design, technology, and urban planning. The program emphasizes practical skills and community engagement.
20. Holy Angel University
- Location: Angeles City, Pampanga.
- Type: Private.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture.
Holy Angel University embeds ethical and sustainable designs with an architectural education that makes its students develop competencies for diverse professional roles in architecture and urban planning.
21. University of Nueva Caceres
- Location: Naga City, Camarines Sur.
- Type: Private.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture.
Source: Alchetron.com.
Practical experience is provided to students through internships and community projects at UNC. The kind of curriculum supplied by the university is very consolidated and comprehensive and suits a variety of professional positions and disciplines in architecture.
22. University of San Agustin
- Location: Iloilo City, Iloilo.
- Type: Private.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture.
Source: Augustinian Churches and History.
USA is well renowned for its strengths in historical preservation and modern design practices; hence, the university’s architecture department offers a complete program with adequate hands-on training.
23. Don Bosco Technical College
- Location: Mandaluyong, Metro Manila.
- Type: Private.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture.
Source: Salesian Institutions of Higher Education | IUS.
Don Bosco Technical College has been famous for its technical education and programs for formation. The program’s focus is on the practice of architecture skills and participation in community volunteering work or projects.
24. Capiz State University
- Location: Roxas City, Capiz.
- Type: Public.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture.
Source: Dr g medical.
This is a school that puts more emphasis on practical training and sustainable practices, ensuring that their graduates fit careers both in urban and rural settings.
25. Western Mindanao State University
- Location: Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur.
- Type: Public.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. in Architecture.
Source: Philippine Star.
WMSU offers a dynamic architecture program focusing on regional development and cultural preservation that reflects the diversity of Mindanao.
Frequently Asked Questions on Architecture Schools in the Philippines
What is the Duration of an Architecture Degree in the Philippines?
A Bachelor of Science in Architecture typically takes five years to complete, which includes a mix of theoretical coursework, design studios, and practical training.
What are the Admission Requirements for Architecture Programs in the Philippines?
Admission requirements usually include passing the university entrance exam, having a high school diploma, and sometimes presenting a portfolio of design work. Specific requirements may vary by institution.
How Do These Schools Fare When You Look at Licensure Performance?
This subset includes schools like the University of the Philippines – Diliman, University of Santo Tomas, and Mapúa University, that have been known to exhibit very high pass rates for the Architect Licensure Examination administered by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).
Are There Any International Opportunities or Study-Abroad Programs in the Philippines?
Yes, most of the top-notch architecture schools in the Philippines have programs that enable them to be exposed to the international arena by having exchange programs, study tours, and collaborating with foreign universities.
What Will be the Career Prospects of Students Graduating From Architecture Schools in the Philippines?
Graduates from the leading architecture schools in the Philippines are professionally absorbed in lines of work in architectural design, urban planning, construction, interior design, and sustainable development. With such a strong foundation and training, they will be well placed to acquire the most competitive roles both in local and international job markets.
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Conclusion
These universities represent some of the best architecture schools in the Philippines, with varied strengths and specializations. Location, focused programs, faculty expertise, and facilities are all considerations for prospective students in choosing the right school for their architectural education.
