Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI)
university
Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI)

Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI)

To form a humanist and a generalist architect: based on a balanced integration between practical design work, the humanities, and technical-scientific subjects.

Via Giuseppe Buffi 13, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland

About Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI)

The Academy of Architecture at Università della Svizzera italiana (USI) is dedicated to fostering humanist and generalist architects. Its educational philosophy emphasizes a balanced integration of practical design work with humanities and technical-scientific subjects. The curriculum spans five years, including a period of professional practice, and is centered around design studios led by internationally acclaimed architects. Students engage in hands-on learning, continuously testing theoretical knowledge against real-life practice. The program covers various areas such as Theory of Art and Architecture, Culture of the Territory, Philosophy, Construction and Technology, Structures, Ecology, Mathematics, and Computer Science, preparing students for contemporary architectural challenges with a strong focus on design, innovation, and environmental issues. The academy provides an international, project-oriented environment for learning and research.
Program NameDetails
Bachelor of Science in Architecture
Bachelor

This program provides a comprehensive understanding of architectural design, theory, and practice, emphasizing both technical skills and creative thinking. Students engage in hands-on projects and gain insights into environmental sustainability and contemporary design practices.

3 Years
Italian
CHF 4,000 per semester (CHF 2,000 for students with legal residence in Switzerland or Liechtenstein at the time of obtaining their secondary school diploma).
Deadline: April 30, 2026 (for international non-EU/EFTA candidates), June 30, 2026 (for Swiss and European EU/EFTA candidates who do not require a visa)
Master of Science in Architecture
Master

This program offers advanced theoretical knowledge and operative skills for contemporary architectural design practice. It closely relates architectural design with technological innovation, environmental issues, territorial management models, and the restoration of historical, architectural, and environmental heritage.

2 Years
Not explicitly stated in the search results, but likely Italian.
CHF 4,000 per semester (CHF 2,000 for students with legal residence in Switzerland or Liechtenstein at the time of obtaining their secondary school diploma).
Deadline: Specific deadlines not found in the search results, refer to the USI website.
Doctor of Architecture (DrArch), Doctor of Technical Sciences (DrScTech) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
PhD

This program certifies that its holder has completed a personal and innovative research project with a notable scientific value. The degree will be awarded after the successful defense of a doctoral thesis.

Not explicitly stated in the search results, refer to the USI website.
Not explicitly stated in the search results, refer to the USI website.
Refer to the specific PhD program page for tuition information.
Deadline: Refer to the specific PhD program page for admission deadlines.

Performance & Metrics

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Alumni
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Programs
Accreditations & Affiliations
Università della Svizzera italiana (USI) is a recognized and accredited Swiss university. Academic qualifications obtained at USI Faculties, including the Academy of Architecture, are recognized internationally based on international conventions such as the Lisbon Convention.
Admissions
Deadlines
General USI Spring 2027 intake
Application opens: September 15, 2026
Non-EU/EFTA candidates: October 31, 2026
Swiss and EU/EFTA candidates (no visa required): January 15, 2027
Bachelor of Architecture (Autumn 2026 intake)
Application opens: December 9, 2025
Swiss and EU/EFTA candidates: June 1, 2026
Non-EU/EFTA and visa-requiring candidates: April 30, 2026
Master of Science in Architecture (General USI Autumn 2026 intake)
Non-EU/EFTA candidates: April 30, 2026
Swiss and EU/EFTA candidates (no visa required): June 30, 2026
Requirements
For Bachelor programs: Curriculum vitae, picture (JPEG), copy of work certificates, letter of motivation, copy of passport or ID, and a portfolio (A4 size) presenting several projects. For Master programs: Specific academic background is required; candidates with a BSc from USI, ETHZ, or EPFL have automatic access, while others are evaluated by a Mobility Commission. Certain Bachelor degrees (e.g., Interior Design, Industrial Design, Urban Planning) are not considered valid for MSc admission. An application fee of CHF 200 is required for Bachelor and Master in Architecture candidates (refundable deposit for some, with exemptions for Swiss diplomas).

Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI) Academic FAQ

Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI) is To form a humanist and a generalist architect: based on a balanced integration between practical design work, the humanities, and technical-scientific subjects.

Applicants are typically required to submit: For Bachelor programs: Curriculum vitae, picture (JPEG), copy of work certificates, letter of motivation, copy of passport or ID, and a portfolio (A4 size) presenting several projects. For Master prog....

Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI) provides a comprehensive curriculum including: Bachelor of Science in Architecture, Master of Science in Architecture, Doctor of Architecture (DrArch), Doctor of Technical Sciences (DrScTech) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI) is situated in Lugano, Switzerland, offering a vibrant context for architectural study.

Yes, Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI) holds accreditations from: Università della Svizzera italiana (USI) is a recognized and accredited Swiss university. Academic qualifications obtained at USI Faculties, including the Academy of Architecture, are recognized internationally based on international conventions such as the Lisbon Convention..