Student Travel

International and Domestic Travel

A tremendous advantage of studying architecture at Howard University is its location. Situated in the heart of the Nation’s Capital, the Department of Architecture at Howard University draws heavily on the rich heritage of Washington, D.C. Surrounded by both historic and contemporary built fabric, the campus is the ideal setting for exploration and discovery. The city of Washington, D.C. offers a wide spectrum of historic and contemporary architectural expressions juxtaposed with diverse social, cultural, political, and economic dimensions. Its proximity to the I-95 corridor extends the design exploration to Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York, and other important nodes of design innovation. Travel is fundamental to the architecture curriculum to engage in field research, study tours and charrette activities.

A staple of the first-year experience is the annual trip to Fallingwater, a house designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright in Mill Run, Pennsylvania in 1935. Fallingwater is considered as an architectural, engineering, and interior design masterpiece. It is one of Wright’s most widely acclaimed works and best exemplifies his philosophy of organic architecture: the harmonious union of art and nature. Wright’s work introduces distinct design principles to our students. Students also participate in Architecture Exchange East, the "mid-Atlantic’s largest annual educational event and expo with more than 60 educational sessions, behind-the-scenes architectural tours, engaging special events, and cutting-edge vendors".

We are fully committed to implementing the missions of Howard University and the College of Engineering and Architecture. Its historic role in being a major contributor to communities of color locally, nationally, and internationally is demonstrated by its enduring global reach through alliances and partnerships with other architecture programs in Europe, Africa and the Caribbean focusing on the University’s commitment to the African Diaspora. It has assumed its role in world affairs as well as extended its public service function through expanded engagement with local, national and international communities. This has been achieved through studio-based projects (2014 Haiti Summer Studio) as well as collaboration with community groups and organizations.

Study Abroad and International Exchange

While the United States offers a variety of opportunities to explore design and planning innovation, our students are also able to explore design theories and significant places abroad. International study and exchanges are essential to the study of architecture and edification of the architecture student. The exploration of place, people and associated cultures is an important companion to architecture pedagogy. The real-time exploration of historic and contemporary architecture is fundamental to understanding the complex narrative of urban placemaking.

We strongly encourage students to participate in international study and exchanges beginning in their third year of the curriculum. Students may participate in international study programs through the Council on International Educational Exchange. Through their offerings, students are exposed to a myriad of culture, architecture, design and technology as well as presented with opportunities to collaborate with other students and faculty who have global perspectives. Such experiences further enrich our students’ educational undergraduate experience. Our students have spent semesters in Barcelona, Berlin, Copenhagen, and Sharjah. Students return from their semesters abroad transformed.