Application Process for the BS in Architecture Major
Admission to the architecture major will require a successful portfolio and personal statement review in addition to fulfillment of the standard university admissions requirements.
For portfolio and personal statement guidelines, please click here.
Prospective applicants are welcome to email the department or call (413) 577-0943 for information about the program and building tours.
Freshman Admissions
High school seniors with exceptional visual arts backgrounds may apply to the architecture major when they apply for admission to UMass through the Common Application.
- In the Common Application, indicate your plan to declare Architecture as your major.
- Submit portfolio images and personal statement via SlideRoom as directed.
For more information about the UMass application process visit Undergraduate Admissions.
Freshman Application Deadlines
- Early Action Deadline: November 5
- Regular Decision Deadline: January 15
Transfer Admissions
Prospective transfer applicants are encouraged to contact the Department of Architecture for information about the curriculum prior to applying to the program. Please email the department or call (413) 577-0943.
Transfer Application Deadlines
- For fall registration: March 1
- For spring registration: November 5
All applications received and completed by the dates above will be given full consideration for admission. Applications received or completed after this date will be reviewed on a space-available basis.
Current UMass Transfer Students
Current UMass applicants: Apply via SlideRoom, our online portfolio submission platform.
Current UMass Amherst students in other majors (or exploratory tracks) interested in declaring architecture as their major can apply directly to the Department of Architecture while taking foundations-level studios and art history survey courses. Due to the requirements of the program, we encourage current UMass students to apply during their first year. Applicants must submit a portfolio, personal statement, and Spire ID to the Department of Architecture via SlideRoom.
External Transfer Students
External transfer students and Massachusetts community college MassTransfer students cannot apply directly to the major at this time. We recommend applying to the university with a different major, then applying as an on-campus transfer student.
Please refer to the UMass Amherst MassTransfer web page. You may also consult with your community college transfer advisor or contact a transfer counselor in the UMass Amherst Admissions Office at mail@admissions.umass.edu or (413) 545-0222.