Architecture Program Ranks 4th in 2011 (released November 2010)

The Architecture Department ranked third among undergraduate programs in the 2011 DesignIntelligence survey ranking public and private degree programs nationally. Cal Poly’s Architecture program has made the nation’s Top 20 list since 2003 with a ranking of sixth or better. The full report can be ordered at the America's Best Architecture & Design Schools, 2011 Edition

The survey also rates the best institutions at preparing students for specific skills. For the third year in a row, Cal Poly’s architecture program earned the nation’s top honor in the Construction Methods and Materials category. This ranking is based on a range of skills such as design, analysis and planning, and research and theory. Responses cited Cal Poly’s “integrated curriculum, preparation of graduates ready for work, and sustainability.”

"The 11th annual America's Best Architecture & Design Schools study by DesingIntelligence on behalf of the Design Futures Council ranks accredited undergraduate and graduate programs from the perspective of leading practitioners. The survey, conducted in mid-2010, tapped professional practice leaders who have had direct experience in hiring and evaluating the perspective of recent architecture and design graduates.

Leading firms were queried about which college and university programs have best prepared students for professional practice. A cross section of U.S. firms with disbursed geographic profiles were invited to participate."

This report gives much resonance to the integrity of our pedagogical responsibilities. Our learn by doing philosophy combines common sense and intellectual curiosity, and our graduates are well positioned to become the next team players in a world of increased complexity. In particular this year’s 2011 Design Intelligence rankings sends a clear message that practitioners recognize the importance of a polytechnic education. The Architecture Department remains ambitious in educating creative leaders who can work in an integrative and interdisciplinary manner; a professional path that continues to be demonstrated successfully by our alumni.