Pre-Architecture Program
If you're drawn to the design of buildings and landscapes, architecture may be a career path you should consider. Today's architecture programs are less purely technical than in the past. By studying pre-architecture at Dordt, you鈥檒l set yourself up for success in the architecture industry.
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Program Overview
As a pre-architecture student, you鈥檒l spend time learning about structure, environment, materials, code compliance, and more. Unlike in the past, however, Dordt pre-architecture students work from a designer's perspective, with less math than in previous generations and with more emphasis on basic concepts and integration.
A key emphasis of the pre-architecture program at 小黄书 is to encourage students to consider how their work may serve both God and His creation. That happens by designing buildings and landscapes that reflect responsible use of spatial, material, environmental, and economic resources. All part of learning academically while being challenged spiritually.
Dordt's innovative "four plus three" pre-architecture program can be the first step to a master of architecture degree and a career as a licensed architect. You鈥檒l understand various architecture styles. You鈥檒l develop your own stylistic abilities. And you鈥檒l blend classroom teaching and practical application to prepare for your future. Our pre-architecture program can help you get your graduate degree in an additional three years, though some programs may require four.

What can I do with a degree in pre-architecture from 小黄书?
By pursuing pre-architecture, you鈥檒l leave Dordt prepared to transition from undergrad work to a graduate program in architecture. If you don鈥檛 pursue graduate work, you鈥檒l still be ready to make an impact in your professional career. Whether you pursue a job as an architect, an engineer, an urban planner, or an interior designer, Dordt鈥檚 pre-architecture program will prepare you for the next steps.
Architectural Drafter
Architectural Drafters design and illustrate structural features and details for buildings and other construction projects.
Project Coordinator
A Project Coordinator manages the administrative tasks that are necessary to keep the project on pace and running smoothly.
Interior Designer
Interior Designers use colors, lighting, and materials to make indoor spaces functional, safe, and decorative.
Career Preparation
小黄书's 2024 Career Outcome Rate was 99.3%! 鈥淭he entire campus is engaged in the work of discipleship,鈥 said Amy Westra, Director of Career Development. 鈥淧roviding a Christian education focused on Christ-centered renewal is owned by all faculty and staff.鈥

Pre-Architecture Program
There are two common tracks to take in the pre-architecture program.
- The art major with a pre-architecture design emphasis is for students who want to focus on imaginative work and developing concepts.
- The engineering science major with a pre-architecture emphasis is for students interested in more technical and mechanical aspects of architecture.
As a pre-architecture student, you鈥檒l spend time learning about structure, environment, materials, code compliance, and more. Unlike in the past, however, Dordt pre-architecture students work from a designer's perspective, with less math than in previous generations and with more emphasis on basic concepts and integration.
By pursuing pre-architecture, you鈥檒l leave Dordt prepared to transition from undergrad work to a graduate program in architecture. If you don鈥檛 pursue graduate work, you鈥檒l still be ready to make an impact in your professional career. Whether you pursue a job as an architect, an engineer, an urban planner, or an interior designer, Dordt鈥檚 pre-architecture program will prepare you for the next steps.
Entrance requirements for architectural graduate programs vary, but most programs prefer students who have completed an interdisciplinary liberal arts bachelor's degree, including courses in art, graphic design, physics, mathematics, and engineering.
Good writing and communication skills are essential for admission. Architects not only create designs but must communicate their designs to a team of engineers and construction managers. Architects' responsibilities go beyond conceptual drawings; they take part in ongoing management of construction projects, monitor work progress, evaluate proposed changes during construction, and take professional responsibility for a project.
A broad-based education provides good preparation, because architects must consider more than the aesthetic appeal of a structural design. They need to be know how to create structures that are environmentally and culturally appropriate, as well as safe and ergonomic for those who will occupy the space.
The art major with a pre-architecture design emphasis is for students who want to focus on imaginative work and developing concepts. It includes:
- Core competencies in drawing, graphic art, and art history
- Supplemental courses in mathematics, physics, engineering materials, and structural design
The engineering science major with a pre-architecture emphasis is for students interested in more technical and mechanical aspects of architecture. It includes:
- Core engineering principles related to structural, foundational, and energy-efficient design
- Supplemented by fundamentals of drawing, graphic design, and art/architectural history
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Faculty
With experience in a variety of fields, our faculty members are equipped and ready to help you succeed.
Science and Technology Center
While studying pre-architecture, you'll have the opportunity to spend time in Dordt's Science and Technology Center. Informally known as the "Science Building," the Science and Technology Center is home to Dordt's 180-seat lecture hall.
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Student Stories
Dordt students and alumni use their gifts to make a difference in the world. Check out their stories to see how Defender Nation lives out our mission to work effectively toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life.
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Related Program Options
Still looking for the right fit? Here are some additional program options that we think might interest you or are often paired with this program. You can also view the programs page to keep exploring your options.