Architecture
The Architecture bachelor’s (and graduate) program at ODTÜ is designed to train design and planning professionals equipped to address regional and global issues in urbanism, housing, and construction. The program combines studio-based design education with courses in theory, history, and technology, encouraging creative skills, critical thinking, and ethical responsibility toward the built environment. Students gain hands-on experience through design studios, practical projects, and theoretical coursework to become well-rounded architects.
Situated on ODTÜ’s expansive forested campus in Ankara, the program emphasizes contextual, ethical, and critical approaches to architecture. With access to advanced laboratories, workshops, and a rich academic environment, students are prepared for professional and academic careers in architecture, urban design, conservation, building science, and related fields. The program’s international character is strengthened by English-medium instruction, student exchange opportunities, and collaboration with global institutions.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Bachelor’s (B.Arch.), with Master’s (M.Arch.) and Ph.D. options available
- Standard period of study: 4 years (plus six-month summer practice for the undergraduate program)
- Location: Ankara (ODTÜ main campus)
- Study Type: Undergraduate and Graduate (full-time)
- Admission semester: Typically Fall semester (as per ODTÜ academic calendar)
- Area of study: Architecture, Urban Design, Building Science, Conservation of Cultural Heritage, Digital Design & Fabrication, Architectural History & Theory
- Admission modus: Regular national/international admissions & exchange possibilities
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Design & Representation
- Basic Design Studio I
- Introduction to Architectural Representation
- Architectural Theory & Concepts
- Supporting foundational courses
Semester 2 – Architectural Drawing & Basic Concepts
- Basic Design Studio II
- Technical Drawing & Architectural Graphics
- Introduction to Building Technology
- Complementary theory courses
Semester 3 – Intermediate Architectural Design I
- Design Studio III
- Structural Systems I
- History of Architecture I
- Building Materials & Construction Principles
Semester 4 – Intermediate Architectural Design II
- Design Studio IV
- Structural Systems II
- History of Architecture II
- Environmental Control Systems I
Semester 5 – Advanced Architectural Design I
- Design Studio V
- Urban Design & Planning Concepts
- Building Construction & Detailing
- Elective courses (architectural theory, technology, or history)
Semester 6 – Advanced Architectural Design II
- Design Studio VI
- Environmental Control Systems II
- Digital Design / Computational Methods
- Architectural Theory or Urban Studies electives
Semester 7 – Pre-Thesis Studio & Specialization
- Design Studio VII
- Advanced electives (conservation, digital fabrication, building science, heritage)
- Professional practice seminar
- Internship / summer practice integration
Semester 8 – Graduation Project & Professional Preparation
- Graduation Design Studio (Capstone Project)
- Advanced architectural electives
- Portfolio preparation & presentation
- Completion of required professional practice
Career Opportunities
Graduates can pursue careers as architects, urban designers, building scientists, conservation specialists, heritage consultants, digital design / computational design professionals, project managers, or academics. They may work in architectural offices, urban planning agencies, heritage conservation firms, construction and design companies, research institutes, or continue with graduate studies (M.Arch. / Ph.D.) for academic and research careers.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing Architecture at ODTÜ means joining one of Türkiye’s oldest and most respected architecture schools, with a strong tradition since 1956. The program balances creative design, critical theory, historical awareness and technical competence, encouraging students to think ethically about built environment and culture.
With its English-medium instruction, international exposure, modern labs/workshops, and breadth of specialization — from building science to heritage conservation and urban design — the program prepares students for both national and global architectural challenges.
Contact Information
ODTÜ – Faculty of Architecture
Middle East Technical University, Dumlupınar Blvd. No:1, 06800 Çankaya, Ankara, Turkey
Tel: +90 (312) … (standard university contact)
Email: arch@metu.edu.tr
Department of Architecture – Student Affairs / Admissions Office
Faculty of Architecture, ODTÜ
Tel / Email: (as listed on official METU Architecture contacts)
International Office – Middle East Technical University
International Student Office, ODTÜ Campus
Tel / Email: (as listed on ODTÜ central contact information)
