Discover architecture from anywhere. Introduction to Architecture for High School Students is an immersive five-week, online course designed for high school students who want to explore architectural design, creative problem-solving, and the future of digital and physical space. Open to high school students who will be entering grades 10 to 12 in Fall 2026, the program welcomes both beginners and more experienced young designers.

Students who complete the course will earn 3 transferable college credits from Columbia University.

Architecture today moves seamlessly between physical spaces, digital tools, and virtual communities. In this studio-based program, students explore:

• How architects design across physical and digital environments
  
• How to create meaningful spaces using online design platforms
  
• How designers build community through virtual collaboration
  

Participants will learn to think like a designer – asking critical questions, developing strong ideas, and engaging hands-on with the the tools architects use every day.

This program is ideal for students entering grades 10–12 who are curious about:

• Architecture
  
• Design and creativity
  
• Technology and digital tools
  
• Critical thinking and problem-solving
  

No portfolio, drawing ability, or previous experience is required to participate in the program.

Students will focus on developing critical and conceptual thinking by exploring how architects generate ideas, respond to culture and technology, and shape both physical and virtual environments. They will strengthen their communication skills through design critiques and creative collaboration, learning to present their work clearly and confidently while receiving feedback from instructors, peers, and visiting professionals. In addition, students will begin building a strong design portfolio—an essential element for college applications in architecture, design, and other creative fields.

The Intro to Architecture is a five-week course, July 6 to August 7, 2026.

This is a fully online synchronous studio-based course in which students spend most of their time designing, discussing ideas, and receiving real-time feedback. Design studios are led by experienced instructors, featuring project work, critiques, demos, and one-on-one guidance.

Required sessions: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, 2-hour class sessions per day.

Optional sessions: online events and lectures, including presentations and discussions with architects and designers.

To participate in the Intro to Architecture course for high school students, please complete the online application form including:

• Current high school transcript
  
• A brief personal statement describing your interest in architecture
  

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. No portfolio or experience required.

Participants need to have access to a computer with reliable internet access and a webcam and microphone for live class sessions.

Please contact the GSAPP Admissions Office with any questions: arch_admissions@columbia.edu