North American School of Drafting
university
North American School of Drafting

North American School of Drafting

NewSchool is the only university in San Diego dedicated to architecture, design & construction management education.

600 B St STE 600-800, San Diego, CA 92101, USA

About North American School of Drafting

NewSchool of Architecture & Design (NSAD) is a globally recognized institution in downtown San Diego, dedicated to architecture, design, and construction management education. It fosters a non-traditional and innovative educational environment, emphasizing critical thinking, ethical leadership, and solving complex global challenges. The university's mission is to nurture and inspire design-minded students, preparing them for professional practice through urban engagement, sustainable studies, and international perspectives. NSAD offers a human-centered approach to design, integrating industry-standard technology like AI, 3D modeling, and Augmented Reality. Students engage in hands-on, community-based projects and benefit from an inspiring campus community and strong industry connections. Its curriculum focuses on preparing students not just to survive, but to shape the evolving professional landscape. The campus provides a dynamic environment for collaboration and creativity, featuring individual studio spaces available 24/7.
Program NameDetails
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch)
Bachelor

The B.Arch program provides the foundation to prepare students for an internship in an architectural firm and for eventual licensing as an architect. The curriculum integrates design thinking, sustainability, and real-world project-based learning.

5 Years
English
Approximately $30,000 to $33,000 per year for undergraduate programs.
Deadline: Not specified in the search results.
Bachelor of Arts in Architecture
Bachelor

The Bachelor of Arts in Architecture teaches the foundation of the profession and the advanced theories and practical application of creating inspirational structures in a sustainable manner. It prepares students for graduate programs in architecture and allied fields.

4 Years
English
Undergrad Tuition – In State: $21,500 - $26,500. Undergrad Tuition – Out of State: $21,500 - $26,500.
Deadline: Not specified in the search results.
Bachelor of Interior Architecture & Design
Bachelor

This program teaches students to animate and enrich environments from the inside out, merging aesthetics, functionality, and human-centered innovation. Students explore how to shape residential, commercial, and public spaces with purpose.

4 Years
English
Not specified in the search results.
Deadline: Not specified in the search results.
Master of Architecture (M.Arch)
Master

The M.Arch program offers various tracks based on individual goals and can complement existing skills while expanding professional horizons. It can be a NAAB-accredited first professional degree.

Varies
English
Graduate Tuition – In State: $26,500 - $31,500. Graduate Tuition – Out of State: $26,500 - $31,500.
Deadline: Not specified in the search results.
Master of Architectural Studies
Master

This program is for students who have earned a first professional degree in architecture. It allows students to complement their existing skills while expanding professional horizons.

Varies
English
Graduate Tuition – In State: $26,500 - $31,500. Graduate Tuition – Out of State: $26,500 - $31,500.
Deadline: Not specified in the search results.
Master of Science in Architecture
Master

This program is for students with a bachelor's degree in any field. It gives licensed mid-career architects the opportunity to advance their professional knowledge and careers.

Varies
English
Graduate Tuition – In State: $26,500 - $31,500. Graduate Tuition – Out of State: $26,500 - $31,500.
Deadline: Not specified in the search results.
Ph.D. in Architecture
PhD

The program is designed for both architects and non-architects and provides a unique opportunity to make a significant contribution to the field through original research. Graduates can work in academia, research, or in advanced practice in architecture, urban design, and related fields.

Varies
English
Not specified in the search results.
Deadline: Not specified in the search results.

Performance & Metrics

Institutional Stats
0
Students
0
Faculty
0
Alumni
7
Programs
Accreditations & Affiliations
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Admissions
100% for application year 2024 (historically varied, e.g., 45% in 2022)
Acceptance Rate
Deadlines
Transfer
August 30th
Fall Freshmen
September 12th
Out-of-State Fall Freshmen
August 30th
Requirements
0: High School Transcript
1: Essay
2: Minimum High School GPA of 2.5
3: Portfolio (required for some programs)
4: SAT/ACT Scores (not required)
Recent Rankings
EduRank.org (2025): 1497th in the US overall, 684th globally for Architecture.
Research.com (2026): 1436th in US overall.
Niche: 29th of 171 Best Colleges for Architecture in America.
Top Architecture and Design School 2025 award by Education Inquirer.
One of the first 14 programs in the US to be accepted for NCARB's Integrated Path to Architectural Licensure (IPAL) initiative (2015).

North American School of Drafting Academic FAQ

North American School of Drafting is NewSchool is the only university in San Diego dedicated to architecture, design & construction management education.

The acceptance rate for North American School of Drafting is 100% for application year 2024 (historically varied, e.g., 45% in 2022), reflecting the selectivity of its academic programs.

Applicants are typically required to submit: High School Transcript, Essay, Minimum High School GPA of 2.5, Portfolio (required for some programs), SAT/ACT Scores (not required).

North American School of Drafting provides a comprehensive curriculum including: Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch), Bachelor of Arts in Architecture, Bachelor of Interior Architecture & Design, Master of Architecture (M.Arch), Master of Architectural Studies.

The institution maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1 in studio and major courses; overall 6:1 (various sources), ensuring personalized mentorship and studio culture.

North American School of Drafting is situated in San Diego, United States, offering a vibrant context for architectural study.

Yes, North American School of Drafting holds accreditations from: [object Object].