Architecture Universities With English Programs in Europe

If you want to study architecture, nothing compares to learning about and living among the historic architectural wonders of Europe. What can you do if you’re only fluent in English? Is it possible to study architecture in Europe in English?

Even though becoming fluent in more than one language is a wise decision for your future and one that shows cultural sensitivity in our increasingly global world, it is understandable that you want to pursue higher education in your native language. In that case, there is good news: There are plenty of architecture schools in Europe that teach in English.

Architecture Schools in Europe Taught in English

If you’re looking to study architecture in Europe in English, you may be thinking that your only options will be in the United Kingdom. You’d be surprised to find out that there are schools all over Europe that hold classes in English. You can even earn a Bachelor of Architecture in English in Europe.

You have a few options for schools in the U.K., including the University of Liverpool and the Glasgow School of Art. The Städelschule Academy of Fine Arts in Frankfurt, Germany offers a Master of Arts program in English, and the Oulu School of Architecture in Oulu, Finland offers both bachelor's and master's programs in architecture that are taught completely in English.

Other schools where you can study architecture in Europe in English exist all over the continent. They include the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia, the Domus Academy in Milan and the University of Applied Arts in Vienna. The Netherlands is home to several programs as well, including those at the Berlage Institute in Rotterdam and the Delft Institute of Technology.

Schools Offering a Bachelor of Architecture in English in Europe

The U.K. is one of your best bets for earning a Bachelor of Architecture in English in Europe. The University of Liverpool is one out-of-the-way option where you can avoid the price of living in a large metropolitan city like London. At the University of Liverpool, you can earn a Bachelor of Arts in architecture that leads to certification from the Royal Institute of British Architects.

Another option for earning a Bachelor of Architecture in English in Europe is the Glasgow School of Art in Scotland. With an acceptance rate between 10 and 20 percent, The Glasgow School of Art is among the choosier schools.

Even though the Städelschule Academy of Fine Arts in Frankfurt, Germany doesn't give much insight about its admission numbers, you should still think about applying there, as it is one of the least expensive programs. Tuition may cost as little as $9,000 USD per year. Another interesting aspect of the program is that it requires prospective students to have one year of work experience before applying, so the student population and the school experience may be very different at Städelschule than at a traditional university in the United States.

Can You Get a Master's of Architecture in Europe?

Yes! In addition to its B.A. program, the University of Liverpool also offers a M.A. in architecture or an MSc in sustainable environmental design in architecture at the University of Liverpool. More than 95 percent of graduates from these architecture programs find employment. Admission statistics, however, are unavailable. See the university's website for tips on applying.

Adding to the programs at the University of Liverpool, the Oulu School of Architecture in Finland offers a Master of Science in architecture. The program at Oulu focuses on urban design and architecture, so if you're a city lover, this is the program for you.