Boston Architectural College

Quick Facts

Independent college of spatial design

Location

Boston, MA (Back Bay)

Degrees

Certificates, Bachelor's, Master's

Popular Majors

Architecture, Interior Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Design Studies

Total Students

Undergrad Students

700

300

Tuition (2025-2026)

Room and Board

$28,000

N/A (commuter-focused)

Selectivity

Average Net Price *

Open Admission

$28,000

Distance from Boston

School Website

In Boston

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* Average Net Price is the actual average cost to students for attending the college. This is calculated by adding the cost of attendance (tuition, fees and room and board where applicable) and subtracting the average amount of federal, state/local government, or institutional grant or scholarship aid.

Boston Architectural College (BAC), founded in 1889, is an independent professional college dedicated to architecture, interior architecture, landscape architecture, and design studies. Located in Boston's Back Bay, BAC serves approximately 700 students with a distinctive practice-based model that integrates academic study with paid professional work experience. The college's concurrent learning approach allows students to earn credits through employment while building portfolios and networks.

BAC offers accredited programs in architecture, interior architecture, landscape architecture, and design studies at bachelor's and master's levels.

The college requires concurrent professional practice, providing paid design firm experience alongside coursework.

Graduate programs focus on advanced professional training in architecture, interior architecture, and landscape architecture.

BAC maintains partnerships with design firms for practice opportunities.

The urban Back Bay campus features studios and resources in Boston's design community.

 

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Contents

Academics>

Admission>

Career Outcomes>

Campus>

Student Life>

Graduate Schools>

International Students>

Visiting Boston Architectural College>

 

Academics

Boston Architectural College offers practice-based education in spatial design disciplines. Undergraduates and graduates pursue accredited degrees in Architecture, Interior Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Design Studies. Programs integrate studio work with concurrent professional practice in design firms. Students earn credits for paid employment while developing portfolios. Small studios and faculty mentorship support growth. BAC's unique model accelerates professional readiness and licensure eligibility.

Admission

Admission to BAC is open and supportive, welcoming students with design interest and professional goals. Applications are rolling with portfolio review for advanced placement. Holistic evaluation considers academic record, experience, and motivation. Test-optional policy applies.

Career Outcomes

BAC graduates achieve strong outcomes in architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, and related fields, benefiting from concurrent practice and industry connections. The Practice Department supports paid employment in design firms throughout studies. Students build professional experience early. Graduates are licensure-eligible immediately and often advance rapidly. High employment rates reflect BAC's practical model and Boston location.

Campus

BAC's urban Back Bay campus features professional studios, fabrication labs, library, and gallery spaces in historic buildings. Facilities support intensive design work with 24-hour access. The campus offers commuter resources and limited housing partnerships. Easy transit connects to downtown for practice opportunities. The location immerses students in Boston's design community while providing focused creative spaces.

Student Life

BAC fosters a professional community of designers with events, exhibitions, and collaborations. Organizations include student chapters of AIA, ASLA, and IIDA. Activities feature lectures, critiques, and portfolio reviews. Wellness resources support balance amid intensive studies. The diverse population enriches design discourse. Boston location offers cultural and professional enrichment while the college provides focused studio environment.

Graduate Schools

BAC's graduate programs prepare advanced practitioners in architecture, interior architecture, and landscape architecture through intensive studio practice and concurrent work experience. With flexible formats including online options, programs serve professionals seeking licensure and specialization. Students benefit from expert faculty, professional networks, and Boston's design ecosystem, gaining expertise for leadership in sustainable and innovative design fields.

BAC Graduate Schools Overview

Program Area Key Programs Focus & Strengths
Architecture MArch Professional practice.
Interior Architecture MIA Adaptive design.
Landscape Architecture MLA Urban ecology.
Design Studies MDS Interdisciplinary.

International Students

Boston Architectural College hosts international students from many countries, contributing diverse perspectives to its practice-based design programs. International students enrich studios and collaborations while pursuing professional U.S. credentials. The college provides comprehensive support to help global designers succeed in Boston's innovative environment. For more information about studying at Boston colleges click here.

Admissions
International applicants follow standard procedures with portfolio, English proficiency, and transcript evaluations.

Support Services
International office assists with visas, orientation, and cultural integration.

Scholarships and Aid
Merit scholarships available; limited need-based.

Student Life and Opportunities
International students engage in practice and Boston's design network.

Visiting Boston Architectural College

Boston Architectural College welcomes prospective students to explore its Back Bay campus through tours, open studios, and events. Visitors experience design studios, fabrication labs, and creative atmosphere while learning about practice model. Virtual tours and online sessions available. Register via Admissions website for personalized visits. For more information about visiting Boston colleges click here.

Recommended Hotels Near Boston Architectural College

Hotel Description Price Range Link
Sheraton Boston Connected to Prudential Center. $280–$500 marriott.com