Introduction to Architecture - Programs & Courses

This program may be offered online

We are working to convert this program to an online offering comprising two three-credit courses:

Featuring the same faculty and rigorous Cornell education as the on-campus version, these courses will run June 21–July 31, 2021.

To enroll, review the course descriptions ARCH 1110 and ARCH 1300, read about online courses, and follow the application steps.

Please contact us if you have questions.

Discover the fundamentals of architecture in this acclaimed program

Introduction to Architecture is a rigorous six-week program that introduces high school and college students to architectural ideas, principles, and methods of exploring architectural problems in a studio setting.

In ARCH 1300, you’ll attend lectures and workshops exploring architectural principles including composition, history, preservation, landscape architecture, planning, and urban design.

In ARCH 1110, you'll put into practice what you’ve learned in the lectures as you develop skills in freehand drawing, architectural drawing, and model making, and experiment with software programs and emerging technologies. You'll also work on a series of design projects culminating in a final architectural proposition.

The program incorporates studio critiques by teaching associates, and formal reviews by faculty and guest critics. Intensive individual instruction, small design seminars and discussion groups, and frequent progress reviews will prepare you for your final project presentation and portfolio review.

No specialized knowledge is needed, beyond a serious interest in architectural design. (College students must register for ARCH 1110 and 1300 through Cornell University Summer Session.) This program requires a design tool kit at an additional cost of approximately $400, as well as the purchase of art supplies as required.

Program highlights

Study architectural concepts of space, form, function, environment, and technology.
Learn the fundamentals of architecture, including the relationship between two-dimensional and three-dimensional design, methods of analog and introductory digital representation, and the basics of architectural composition.
Develop experimental architectural drawing and pragmatic drafting skills during drawing classes.
Build a portfolio and participate in a show of student work.
Earn a certificate, a total of six college credits for ARCH 1110 and 1300, and a written evaluation from your instructor.
Familiarize yourself with Cornell's top-ranked College of Architecture, Art, and Planning.
Visit the AAP summer architecture pages for more information and examples of student work.

Faculty

Our programs offer you the rare opportunity to work closely with some of Cornell's most distinguished professors. Under their guidance, you'll develop the critical thinking and writing skills essential for success in college. You'll also have the chance to talk with them about your academic goals and career aspirations.

Henry Richardson

Professor, College of Architecture, Art, and Planning, Cornell University

Luben Dimcheff

Assistant professor, College of Architecture, Art, and Planning, Cornell University

Student experiences

"This was the highlight of my summer! I met a bunch of brilliant and amazing people who had similar interests to me, and although the work load was pretty intense, it was all worth it in the end for I came out of the program with a much better understanding of what I was going into and a stronger passion for it."

"It's wonderful ... the studio always teemed with creativity and inspiration. Not only did I attain knowledge of basic architectural concepts, but I also learned how to think and analyze like an architect."

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Introduction to Architecture Taught by Henry Richardson, professor of architecture, and Luben Dimcheff, assistant professor of architecture

This program may be offered online

Discover the fundamentals of architecture in this acclaimed program

Program highlights

Faculty

Student experiences