Florida Southern College Launches School of Architecture
Florida Southern College is set to welcome its inaugural class to the newly established School of Architecture, an initiative that will officially begin in fall 2025. This launch signifies an exciting development for students eager to pursue architectural education on the historically significant Frank Lloyd Wright campus.
Commitment to Architectural Education
The School of Architecture promises a distinctive combination of rigorous academics, practical experience, and respect for architectural heritage. With unparalleled facilities including design studios, fabrication labs, and a dedicated research center located on the Frank Lloyd Wright campus, students will benefit from an environment tailored for creative and practical application.
Unique Opportunities for Students
This program will not only include a solid undergraduate curriculum but also provide exceptional study abroad opportunities in engaging locations such as Florence, Italy, and Tokyo, Japan. Students will be immersed in real-world experiences through internships with leading firms, mentoring, and hands-on projects, commencing from their freshman year. This structure is designed to prepare students not just academically but also professionally as they step into the field.
The Architectural Vision
Leading the architectural program is Jeff Baker, Florida Southern's architect-in-residence since 2007, who emphasizes the passion intrinsic to the architectural profession. He notes, “Frank Lloyd Wright loved his work. It’s not just a profession; it’s a calling.” This insight reveals the deeper mission of the program—to inspire students to approach architecture with the same dedication and zeal as the great architects before them.
Integrating Learning with Heritage
Situated in the iconic Ordway Building, one of the 16 structures designed by Frank Lloyd Wright on Florida Southern's campus, students will experience firsthand a living laboratory shaped by historical architectural principles. Dr. Tracey Tedder, the college's provost, praises the campus as a unique setting for students to apply architectural theory in practice, fostering both creative and critical thinking.
Program Development Timeline
The undergraduate degree program will lay the foundation for the School of Architecture, with a master's program expected to follow in 2028. This design allows students to seamlessly progress through their education, ultimately enhancing their qualifications and readiness to enter the architectural field. Further details regarding the School's leadership, specifically the Dean, will be revealed in the summer of 2025, creating anticipation within the academic community.
About Florida Southern College
Founded in 1883, Florida Southern College holds the distinction of being the oldest private college in the state. With over 70 undergraduate programs and elite graduate opportunities in fields such as business, education, nursing, and physical therapy, the college is dedicated to academic excellence. The college maintains a commendable 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio and has received accolades for its engaged learning practices. Among the accolades, Florida Southern ranks highly in several categories in the U.S. News & World Report, as well as in the Princeton Review guides. Notably, it houses the world’s largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, continuing to be recognized as one of the nation's “Most Beautiful Campuses.”
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the School of Architecture at Florida Southern College open?
The School of Architecture will officially open for students in fall 2025.
What unique opportunities does the architecture program offer?
Students will benefit from study abroad options in Florence and Tokyo and immersive internships with leading firms starting from their freshman year.
Where will the School of Architecture be located?
The School of Architecture will be based in the Ordway Building, a historic structure designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.
When will the master's program in architecture be available?
The master's program is planned to commence in 2028, allowing a seamless progression for students.
How does Florida Southern College rank among other institutions?
The college ranks highly among regional universities and is recognized for its innovative programs and value.
