Top 10 Architecture Schools In San Diego And Fees (2025)
San Diego, California, is one of the most architecturally rich and visually stunning cities in the United States. From its coastal modernism to its Spanish Revival influences, the city is a natural classroom for aspiring architects.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 10 architecture schools in San Diego, their programs, and their tuition fees, helping you choose the perfect institution to start your architectural journey.
Top 10 Architecture Schools In San Diego And Fees
1. NewSchool of Architecture & Design (NSAD)
Located in the heart of downtown San Diego, the NewSchool of Architecture & Design (NSAD) is one of the city’s most prestigious institutions for aspiring architects. Founded in 1980, it offers an innovative approach that combines design thinking, sustainability, and real-world project-based learning.
Programs offered:
- Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch)
- Master of Architecture (M.Arch)
- Bachelor of Arts in Design
- Interior Architecture and Design programs
The Bachelor of Architecture program at NSAD is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), ensuring students meet professional standards. The curriculum integrates advanced design software training, construction technology, and hands-on studio experience.
Tuition fees: Approximately $30,000 to $33,000 per year for undergraduate programs.
Students at NSAD benefit from industry partnerships, guest lectures, and design competitions. The downtown location provides proximity to architectural firms and real-world exposure, making it one of the best architecture schools in Southern California.
2. University of California, San Diego (UCSD) – Department of Urban Studies and Planning
While UCSD is renowned for its research excellence, its Urban Studies and Planning Department offers a powerful foundation for those interested in architecture, urban design, and sustainable city planning. The interdisciplinary program allows students to explore spatial design, environmental planning, and community development.
Programs offered:
- Bachelor’s in Urban Studies and Planning
- Minor in Urban Design
- Master’s in Planning and Design (collaborative programs available)
UCSD emphasizes sustainable design and innovation through urban policy and architectural form. Students engage in GIS mapping, environmental planning, and creative design projects that shape real communities.
Tuition fees:
- California residents: Around $14,000 per year
- Non-residents: About $47,000 per year
Graduates from UCSD often pursue architecture graduate programs or professional planning roles. The program’s balance of design, policy, and research makes it ideal for those interested in architecture’s broader social and environmental impacts.
3. San Diego State University (SDSU) – School of Art + Design
San Diego State University’s School of Art + Design offers a strong architecture-related program through its Interior Architecture and Design degree. While not a professional B.Arch program, it provides solid design and spatial skills applicable to both architecture and interior design.
Programs offered:
- Bachelor of Arts in Interior Architecture and Design
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (with architectural electives)
- Master of Fine Arts in Design
The program integrates architectural theory, design principles, 3D visualization, and sustainable materials use. Students gain experience with design software like AutoCAD and Revit while working on studio projects that simulate real-world environments.
Tuition fees:
- California residents: Around $8,200 per year
- Out-of-state students: Around $20,000 per year
SDSU’s reputation, affordable tuition, and strong ties to the local design community make it a smart choice for students interested in architecture, interiors, or environmental design.
4. Woodbury University – San Diego Campus
Woodbury University’s San Diego campus offers a professional Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) program accredited by the NAAB. The school focuses on small class sizes, collaborative studios, and personalized mentorship, ensuring a hands-on architectural education.
Programs offered:
- Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch)
- Master of Architecture (M.Arch)
Woodbury’s approach to architecture emphasizes design ethics, technology, and community engagement. The curriculum includes sustainability, fabrication, and theory-based design studios. The San Diego campus, located in Barrio Logan, is known for its creative, community-based projects that link architecture with local development.
Tuition fees: Approximately $43,000 per year.
Graduates from Woodbury’s San Diego campus are recognized for their innovative thinking and ability to design for diverse urban environments, making it one of Southern California’s premier architecture schools.
5. San Diego Mesa College
San Diego Mesa College offers an Associate Degree in Architecture that serves as an excellent entry point for students aiming to transfer to a four-year architecture program. The curriculum provides foundational training in design, drafting, and construction principles.
Programs offered:
- Associate of Science in Architecture
- Certificate of Achievement in Architecture
Courses include Architectural Design, Building Codes, Environmental Systems, and Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD). The program also emphasizes sustainability and practical studio experience.
Tuition fees:
- California residents: Around $1,150 per year
- Non-residents: Approximately $9,000 per year
Mesa College is one of the most affordable architecture schools in San Diego and is ideal for students seeking a transfer path to institutions like NewSchool, SDSU, or UCSD. Its strong faculty and technical training make it a solid foundation for future architects.
6. Southwestern College – School of Architecture and Design
Located just south of downtown San Diego, Southwestern College offers a respected Architectural Design and Technology program that combines creativity with technical expertise. It’s a great choice for students who want hands-on design experience without the high costs of private universities.
Programs offered:
- Associate of Science in Architecture
- Certificate of Achievement in Architectural Drafting
Students learn architectural drawing, 3D modeling, sustainable building design, and project presentation techniques. The school’s partnerships with architectural firms give students internship opportunities that bridge theory and practice.
Tuition fees:
- California residents: About $1,400 per year
- Non-residents: Around $9,200 per year
With affordable fees, flexible schedules, and a career-focused curriculum, Southwestern College is an excellent launchpad for a professional architectural career or further studies.
7. Palomar College – Architecture Program
Located in San Marcos (just north of San Diego), Palomar College offers a comprehensive Architecture and Design program that prepares students for university transfer or entry-level roles in architectural firms.
Programs offered:
- Associate in Science in Architecture
- Certificate in Architectural Drafting and Design
Students develop skills in hand sketching, digital modeling, and sustainable construction systems. The program focuses on building information modeling (BIM), LEED standards, and structural concepts — key competencies in modern architecture.
Tuition fees:
- California residents: Around $1,300 per year
- Non-residents: About $8,500 per year
Palomar’s blend of affordability, industry-standard facilities, and transfer pathways to UC and CSU systems makes it one of the best community colleges in San Diego for architecture students.
8. University of San Diego (USD) – Architecture and Urban Design Studies
The University of San Diego (USD) offers a minor in Architecture and Urban Design Studies, integrated within its Department of Art, Architecture + Art History. Although it’s a minor program, it provides rigorous training for students interested in pursuing graduate architecture degrees later on.
Programs offered:
- Minor in Architecture and Urban Design Studies
- Bachelor’s in Art and Architecture Studies
Students explore architectural history, design theory, and environmental sustainability, while also gaining hands-on experience with design software and model-making.
Tuition fees: Around $54,000 per year for undergraduate students.
USD’s beautiful campus itself is an architectural masterpiece, serving as daily inspiration for students. Its emphasis on design ethics, sustainability, and community engagement makes it a valuable choice for those considering a future in architecture.
9. Point Loma Nazarene University – Art and Design Program
While Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) doesn’t offer a full architecture degree, its Art and Design program provides foundational knowledge for architecture-related careers. Students can specialize in design and 3D art, which are essential skills for architectural visualization and conceptualization.
Programs offered:
- Bachelor of Arts in Art and Design
- Emphasis in 3D Design and Visual Communication
Students learn design fundamentals, spatial composition, and creative problem-solving — all crucial to architectural practice. The program also emphasizes sustainability and human-centered design principles.
Tuition fees: Approximately $42,000 per year.
PLNU’s serene coastal campus, small class sizes, and strong creative community make it an inspiring place to build the artistic and technical skills that support architectural careers.
10. Cuyamaca College – Architectural Design Technology
Cuyamaca College, located in El Cajon (just outside San Diego), offers an Architectural Design Technology program that focuses on both creativity and technical precision. The program prepares students for immediate employment or transfer to a four-year institution.
Programs offered:
- Associate of Science in Architectural Design Technology
- Certificate of Achievement in CAD and Building Information Modeling
Courses cover topics like sustainable design, drafting, construction methods, and digital rendering. Students also learn to use industry-standard tools like AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp.
Tuition fees:
- California residents: Around $1,200 per year
- Non-residents: About $8,700 per year
Cuyamaca’s strong emphasis on sustainability and affordable tuition makes it a practical choice for students who want hands-on technical training before moving on to a university-level architecture program.
Why Study Architecture in San Diego?
San Diego offers the perfect mix of creative energy, technological advancement, and architectural diversity. From oceanfront structures to high-tech urban designs, the city provides daily inspiration for aspiring architects.
Key benefits include:
- Access to leading architectural firms and design studios
- Exposure to sustainable design and environmental architecture
- Strong academic programs at both community colleges and private universities
- Year-round mild weather, ideal for field studies and outdoor projects
Whether you want to design sustainable homes, urban landscapes, or commercial spaces, San Diego’s architectural schools provide the training, exposure, and creativity to help you thrive.
Conclusion
Choosing the right architecture school is the first step toward building a meaningful design career. From world-renowned institutions like NewSchool of Architecture & Design and UC San Diego, to affordable, transfer-friendly colleges like Mesa College and Palomar College, San Diego offers diverse options to suit every student’s goals and budget.
Each school on this list emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and design excellence — preparing graduates to shape the cities and spaces of tomorrow.