Washington University’s Graduate School of Architecture & Urban Design, part of the Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts, has risen four spots to tie for 6th in the nation according to a recent satisfaction survey by DesignIntelligence, a monthly journal published by the Design Futures Council.
The eighth annual survey, published as “America’s Best Architecture & Design Schools 2007,” examined 114 programs accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board. The Graduate School was tied with programs at Cornell University and Rice University. It was ranked first in the Midwest.
In 2006, Washington University placed 10th overall.
“We are very proud of these rankings, which reflect the strong reputation of the graduate school within the architectural profession,” said Carmon Colangelo, dean of the Sam Fox School. “They also reflect the outstanding accomplishments of our faculty, students and — most particularly — our alumni, whose continuing creativity and leadership influence both the school and the practice of architecture.”
The survey polled directors of design, managing principals and human resource directors from hundreds of leading U.S. architecture firms about which programs had produced the most professional, best-prepared graduates over the last five years. It also queried participants about how programs rated in various skill sets, including design; sustainability; analysis and planning; construction methods and materials; research and theory; communication skills; and computer applications. A new “Deans Survey” polled the heads of 67 programs about which schools they see as academic models.
The Design Futures Council is a global network of professionals involved with the design community. Its mission is to explore trends, changes and new opportunities in design, architecture and building technology.
The complete rankings are available as both a print edition and as a downloadable pdf at www.di.net.