FAQ
Architecture is the art and science of designing spaces and structures that are functional, safe, sustainable, and inspiring. Architects shape the built environment by considering factors such as a project’s purpose, location, materials, and the needs of the people who will use the space. Their work involves collaborating with clients to bring ideas to life, using advanced tools and techniques to create detailed plans and models, and overseeing construction by working with engineers, contractors, and other professionals. At Salt Lake Community College, our program introduces you to the fundamentals of architecture, preparing you for an impactful career in this creative and technical field.
Architecture is a blend of art, science, and problem solving. If you enjoy creativity and are fascinated by how spaces and buildings impact people's lives, architecture could be a great fit. The field requires strong attention to detail and a passion for finding innovative solutions to complex problems. Becoming an architect is a rigorous and demanding journey, with years of education, practical training, and licensure requirements. However, this challenge is also what makes the field so fulfilling. Each step is an opportunity to grow your skills, refine your vision, and tackle complex problems with innovative solutions. At Salt Lake Community College, we encourage you to explore this field by taking introductory courses and speaking with faculty/staff. These experiences can help you understand what architecture entails and decide if it aligns with your personal interests and career goals.
Salt Lake Community College offers an Associate of Science (AS) degree in Architecture.
The Architecture Department offers a complete range of classes that develop skills in architectural communication, design, history of architecture, software, and the impact and responsibility architects have to themselves, clients, and the world around us. These classes ready students to apply for transfer to the University of Utah’s School of Architecture, other 4-year institutions, or to be hired in entry level drafting / Building Information Modeling (BIM) modeler positions in architecture and related professions.
Some classes offered in the Architecture Department include, but are not limited to:
Some classes offered in the Architecture Department include, but are not limited to:
- ARCH 1010 - Intro To Design Professions
- ARCH 1630 - Basic Architectural Communication I
- ARCH 1632 - Basic Architectural Communication II
- ARCH 2030 - Basic Architectural Communication III
- ARCH 1510 - Design Foundations Workshop
- ARCH 2610 - Advanced Architectural Design Workshop
- ARCH 2620 - Design Fundamentals Studio
- ARCH 2212 - Survey of World Architecture I
- ARCH 2213 - Survey of World Architecture II
An architecture portfolio is not an SLCC program requirement, but it is an admission requirement of the University of Utah. To transfer to the University of Utah, students are required to create a professional Architecture Portfolio. This is important to note early in your academic career so you can begin to gather good quality projects and photographs. If students choose to apply to another 4-year institution they should follow those particular admission requirements.
Students have access to the following computer labs that are Architecture and Interior Design designated:
Locations:
Technology Building (TB) 301B
Technology Building (TB) 305B
Hours:
Mon – Thurs: 8am to 10pm
Friday: 8am to 3pm
Sat – Sun: Closed
Locations:
Technology Building (TB) 301B
Technology Building (TB) 305B
Hours:
Mon – Thurs: 8am to 10pm
Friday: 8am to 3pm
Sat – Sun: Closed
Students have access to the following tools:
Photography lab
3D Printer
Laster Cutter
VR Room
High Quality Plotters
Printers
Free access to Adobe Suite software
Free access to Autodesk software
Free access to Microsoft 365
Latest version of all software in our computer lab computers
Photography lab
3D Printer
Laster Cutter
VR Room
High Quality Plotters
Printers
Free access to Adobe Suite software
Free access to Autodesk software
Free access to Microsoft 365
Latest version of all software in our computer lab computers
Planning for a future in architecture requires careful research and decision-making. While Salt Lake Community College’s Associate of Science (AS) degree in Architecture provides an excellent foundation, it’s important to understand that earning this degree does not guarantee admission to the University of Utah’s School of Architecture, which has a competitive admission rate of only about 40%.
To maximize your chances of success, consider applying to multiple institutions and researching their requirements. Each school may have unique prerequisites, application processes, admissions criteria and fees. Work with SLCC’s academic advising team and the advisors at your intended transfer institutions to create a clear plan. Start early to identify transfer requirements, determine the courses you must complete at SLCC, and understand the admission process into your desired program.
It’s essential to note that to become a licensed architect, you must complete an accredited degree—either a Bachelor of Architecture (B. Arch) or a Master of Architecture (M. Arch). In Utah, the University of Utah is the only institution offering an accredited program (an M. Arch). However, architecture-adjacent degrees from other four-year institutions can also open doors to related careers or graduate programs in architecture.
Decide where you want your career to take you, then work backward to identify the steps needed to achieve your goals. Establish Plan A, Plan B, and even a Plan C to ensure you have multiple pathways to success.
For more information on transfer options and accredited architecture programs, consult our Transfer Information webpage and explore links to four-year institutions. This approach will help you stay on track and prepared for the next steps in your architectural journey!
University of Utah - https://soa.cap.utah.edu/
Weber State University - https://www.weber.edu/architecture/
Southern Utah University - https://www.suu.edu/et/programs/arch-civil/
Utah Valley University - https://www.uvu.edu/aed/architecture/
Utah State University - https://www.usu.edu/degrees-majors/interior-architecture-and-design_bid
To maximize your chances of success, consider applying to multiple institutions and researching their requirements. Each school may have unique prerequisites, application processes, admissions criteria and fees. Work with SLCC’s academic advising team and the advisors at your intended transfer institutions to create a clear plan. Start early to identify transfer requirements, determine the courses you must complete at SLCC, and understand the admission process into your desired program.
It’s essential to note that to become a licensed architect, you must complete an accredited degree—either a Bachelor of Architecture (B. Arch) or a Master of Architecture (M. Arch). In Utah, the University of Utah is the only institution offering an accredited program (an M. Arch). However, architecture-adjacent degrees from other four-year institutions can also open doors to related careers or graduate programs in architecture.
Decide where you want your career to take you, then work backward to identify the steps needed to achieve your goals. Establish Plan A, Plan B, and even a Plan C to ensure you have multiple pathways to success.
For more information on transfer options and accredited architecture programs, consult our Transfer Information webpage and explore links to four-year institutions. This approach will help you stay on track and prepared for the next steps in your architectural journey!
University of Utah - https://soa.cap.utah.edu/
Weber State University - https://www.weber.edu/architecture/
Southern Utah University - https://www.suu.edu/et/programs/arch-civil/
Utah Valley University - https://www.uvu.edu/aed/architecture/
Utah State University - https://www.usu.edu/degrees-majors/interior-architecture-and-design_bid
Depending on what your question is about, there are several resources available to you for more information on the courses and programs offered within the Architecture Departments at SLCC.
Questions about a specific program
Contact a full-time faculty member or program manager.
Architecture
Monica Chandler – Assistant professor & program director
Aaron Rask Codden - Instructor
Questions about anything that does not fall into one of the categories above and General Education
Contact your program advisor. If you have not yet chosen a program advisor, you can contact any of the advisors listed.
Architecture
Veronica Medina
Find your advisor through the Academic Advising, Find your Advisor page.
Questions about a specific program
Contact a full-time faculty member or program manager.
Architecture
Monica Chandler – Assistant professor & program director
Aaron Rask Codden - Instructor
Questions about anything that does not fall into one of the categories above and General Education
Contact your program advisor. If you have not yet chosen a program advisor, you can contact any of the advisors listed.
Architecture
Veronica Medina
Find your advisor through the Academic Advising, Find your Advisor page.
Salt Lake Community College’s architecture program stands out for its accessible, high-quality education that is tailored to your goals. Our program offers an affordable start to your architectural education, with tuition significantly lower than most four-year institutions. We provide transfer pathways to universities, ensuring that you can continue your education smoothly. Hands-on learning is a cornerstone of our program, with students gaining practical experience using state-of-the-art tools like 3D printers, laser cutters, and advanced design software. Our smaller class sizes allow for personalized attention and mentorship from experienced faculty who are committed to your success. Salt Lake Community College’s architecture program is dedicated to helping you build a strong foundation for a rewarding career in the field.
The Architecture & Interior Design departments participate in several inspiring and informative events throughout the year, including service projects. Once you enroll as a student, you become part of the community and are encouraged to participate in these events, clubs and organizations. Some examples include:
- Women in Architecture - WIA
- NOMA – National Organization of Minority Architects
- AIA – American Institute of Architects
- AIAS - American Institute of Architecture Students
- YAF – Young Architects Forum
- ACSA – Associate Collegiate Schools of Architecture
- SkillsUSA
- Pecha Kucha SLC
- SL Design Week
- Architecture Week
- USGBC LEED
- U of U School of Architecture Lecture Series
- IIDA Fashion Remix
- SLCC Career Fair
- SLCC Majors Fair