USC Architectural Studies
    Transfer Requirements and Classes

    The major preparation USC lists for Architectural Studies transfers starts with ARCH 102a, ARCH 105aL and ARCH 114; the full list is below.

    82 California community colleges have a current transfer agreement with USC for this major. Pick yours below to see which of its classes count.

    82
    California community colleges with a transfer agreement for Architectural Studies

    Your community college

    Which classes count at your community college?

    Pick your college to see its class for each USC requirement.

    Major Requirements

    USC Architectural Studies Major Preparation

    The courses USC lists as Architectural Studies major preparation for transfer applicants, for the 2026-27 academic year. Course numbers are USC's own; pick your community college above to see the matching class there.

    First Year, First Semester

    Complete all of these

    • ARCH 102a Architectural Design I
    • ARCH 105aL Fundamentals of Design Communication
    • ARCH 114 Architecture: Culture and Community
    • MATH 108g Contemporary Precalculus

    First Year, Second Semester

    Complete all of these

    • ARCH 102bL Architectural Design I
    • ARCH 105bL Fundamentals of Design Communication
    • ARCH 214ag World History of Architecture
    • PHYS 125Lg Physics for Architects
    • WRIT 150 Writing and Critical Reasoning–Thematic Approaches

    Second Year, First Semester

    Complete all of these

    • ARCH 202aL Architectural Design II
    • ARCH 214bg World History of Architecture

    Second Year, Second Semester

    Complete all of these

    • ARCH 202bL Architectural Design II
    • ARCH 211 Materials and Methods of Building Construction

    Third Year, First Semester

    Complete all of these

    • ARCH 215 Design for the Thermal and Atmospheric Environment
    • ARCH 313 Design of Building Structures
    • ARCH 314 History of Architecture: Contemporary Issues
    • ARCH 370 Architectural Studies — Expanding the Field
    • WRIT 340 Advanced Writing and Critical Engagement

    Third Year, Second Semester

    Complete all of these

    • ARCH 315 Design for the Luminous and Sonic Environment
    • ARCH 411 Architectural Technology
    • ARCH 525 Professional Practice: Pre-Design, Project and Office Administration

    Fourth Year, First Semester

    Required

    • ARCH 470a Architectural Studies Capstone

    Fourth Year, Second Semester

    Required

    • ARCH 470b Architectural Studies Capstone

    FAQ

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Does USC have an Architectural Studies major for transfer students?

    Yes. USC offers Architectural Studies and lists the major preparation it expects transfer applicants to complete.

    What classes do I need to transfer to USC for Architectural Studies?

    USC's Architectural Studies major preparation includes ARCH 102a, ARCH 105aL, ARCH 114, MATH 108g, ARCH 102bL and ARCH 105bL, with more courses in the list on this page. Pick your community college on this page to see which of its classes match.

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    Related Transfer Requirements

    Build your USC Architectural Studies plan

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