Romania, with its rich architectural heritage and affordable education, is an increasingly attractive destination for students who wish to pursue a career in architecture. The country boasts a unique blend of historical influences, from Byzantine and Gothic to Art Nouveau and modernist styles, offering a rich environment for architectural studies.
Whether you’re a local student or an international applicant, studying architecture in Romania provides access to high-quality education, experienced faculty, and an immersive cultural experience that fosters creativity and innovation. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about studying in Romania, from top universities and admission requirements to career opportunities and student life.
Romania offers a unique academic experience for architecture students. Here are some key reasons why choosing Romania for your architecture studies could be a great decision:
Romania’s architecture is a fusion of historical influences, including Roman, Ottoman, and Central European styles. Cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Timișoara are home to stunning examples of Byzantine, Baroque, and Art Nouveau architecture, providing a living laboratory for students.
Compared to Western European countries, Romania offers lower tuition fees and an affordable cost of living, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious students. International students can expect tuition fees ranging from €3,000 to €5,000 per year, while living expenses are also significantly lower than in other EU nations.
Romanian universities offer architecture programs accredited by the European Union, meaning graduates can work across Europe without needing additional certification.
Architecture programs in Romania balance theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. Students explore both historical preservation and modern design trends, preparing them for careers in diverse architectural fields.
Top Architecture Universities in Romania
Romania has several prestigious universities that offer architecture programs, with curricula designed to meet international standards.
Established: 1892
Programs: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD in Architecture and Urbanism
Why Choose It?
• Oldest and most prestigious architecture school in Romania
• Strong emphasis on both historical preservation and modern architecture
• Partnerships with international universities for exchange programs
Established: 1920
Programs: Bachelor’s and Master’s in Architecture
Why Choose It?
• Located in one of Romania’s most vibrant student cities
• Focus on sustainable design and urban planning
• Strong connections with architectural firms for internships
Established: 1813
Programs: Bachelor’s and Master’s in Architecture
Why Choose It?
• One of the oldest technical universities in Romania
• Emphasis on both traditional Romanian architecture and modern innovation
• Affordable tuition fees compared to other major universities
Established: 1920
Programs: Architecture and Urban Planning
Why Choose It?
• Strong emphasis on urban development and sustainability
• Located in Timișoara, a city known for its architectural diversity
• Active student organizations and events that promote innovation
Admission to Romanian architecture universities is competitive, and applicants must meet several academic and language proficiency criteria.
• High school diploma or equivalent (recognized by the Romanian Ministry of Education)
• A strong background in mathematics, physics, and art/design subjects is preferred
Most universities require an entrance exam that typically includes:
• A drawing test (freehand sketches, architectural design skills)
• A spatial visualization test
• A mathematics or logic-based reasoning test
• Programs are offered in Romanian, English, and sometimes French or German.
• For English-taught programs, students must provide IELTS (minimum 6.0) or TOEFL scores.
• For Romanian-taught programs, international students must complete a preparatory year in Romanian language studies.
Some universities require a portfolio showcasing the applicant’s artistic and design skills, including sketches, technical drawings, and creative projects.
Studying architecture in Romania involves a mix of theoretical knowledge, technical training, and practical experience.
Architecture programs typically last six years, including both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees combined. The curriculum covers:
• Architectural Design – Fundamentals of building design and aesthetics
• History of Architecture – Study of Romanian and global architectural evolution
• Structural Engineering – Understanding the mechanics of buildings
• Urban Planning – Designing sustainable cities and infrastructure
• Construction Technology – Modern materials and construction techniques
• Computer-Aided Design (CAD) – Training in digital tools like AutoCAD, Rhino, and Revit
Hands-on experience is a key part of the program. Students engage in:
• Architectural studio projects to develop real-world designs
• Internships with architectural firms or urban planning offices
• Field trips to historical and modern architectural sites in Romania and Europe
In the final year, students must complete a thesis project, where they develop a full architectural proposal under faculty supervision.
A degree in architecture from a Romanian university opens doors to various career paths, both in Romania and internationally.
Graduates can work as licensed architects, designing residential, commercial, and public buildings. Romania is part of the EU, so architects can work across Europe with recognized credentials.
Many graduates enter urban planning, helping cities design sustainable communities and infrastructure.
Some architects specialize in interior design, working on home and commercial space aesthetics.
With growing environmental concerns, many graduates focus on eco-friendly architecture, designing energy-efficient buildings.
Graduates interested in research can pursue a PhD in Architecture and contribute to new innovations in the field.
Romania offers an exciting and affordable student experience, making it an excellent place for architecture students to live and study.
Romania is one of the most affordable EU countries for students.
• Accommodation: €150–€300/month (dorms or shared apartments)
• Food: €150–€250/month
• Transport: €10–€15/month for student discounts
• Romania has a vibrant student culture, with events, concerts, and architectural exhibitions happening year-round.
• Major cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Timișoara offer a mix of historical and modern attractions.
• Romanian universities attract students from across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
• Exchange programs like Erasmus+ allow students to study abroad for a semester.
