* Understanding Structures: Physics is crucial for understanding structural mechanics, load bearing, and the behavior of materials under stress. This knowledge is fundamental to designing safe and stable buildings.
* Material Science: Chemistry provides a basis for understanding the properties of building materials, their interactions, and their degradation over time. This is essential for selecting appropriate materials and ensuring the longevity of a design.
* Competitive Edge: Colleges and universities often prefer applicants with a strong science background, and having physics and chemistry on your transcript demonstrates a commitment to rigorous academic pursuits relevant to the field.
While some programs might be slightly more flexible, skipping these subjects could put you at a disadvantage both in your college applications and in your ability to grasp the core concepts of architectural design and engineering. It's generally better to take them if you have the opportunity.