Most architecture programs ask students to take classes that prepare them to understand the science of building construction, including plane geometry, trigonometry, calculus and basic physics. Many schools require students to take one additional science of their choice, such as biology, chemistry or environmental science. Most schools do not expect undergraduate applicants to have previous coursework in architecture, draftsmanship or engineering, because these subjects are not generally available at the high-school level. All architecture programs should list their math and science requirements on their admissions websites.
Many undergraduate architecture programs require applicants to submit a portfolio of fine art drawing. Some consider additional fine art material, such as sculptures, paintings and prints. Undergraduate architecture programs at art schools, such as those at Cooper Union and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), tend to place more emphasis on applicants' portfolios than do programs at liberal arts universities. Students can build their portfolios by taking studio art classes in hand drawing. Students whose high schools do not offer adequate studio art classes may wish to keep a sketchbook that they can include as part of their portfolio.
Virtually all undergraduate architecture programs stress that new architecture exists in dialogue with past construction. Prospective architecture students should take liberal arts classes that help them understand the context of their discipline. Many schools require students to complete coursework in history, English and a foreign language. Some schools, such as Cornell, require students in the architecture program to meet the same liberal arts requirements as students applying to the undergraduate college. Art schools offering a BFA in architecture tend to weigh liberal arts coursework less than other programs.