CAA academics

Art and architecture degrees that foster creativity and innovation

Your passion has the power to shape the world. At University of Idaho’s College of Art and Architecture (CAA), we help you turn that potential into professional success through 13 student-centered academic programs. From sustainable architecture to immersive virtual environments, our art and architecture degrees integrate design, technology and cultural perspective so you can create meaningful, lasting work.

Here, academic programs are both personal and practical. With a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio, you’ll learn in small classes where professors mentor you directly and challenge you to push your ideas further. You’ll gain experience in design studios and work on interdisciplinary research projects, supported by professional networking, internships and other real-world opportunities that prepare you for what’s next.

The results speak for themselves: 98% of CAA graduates are employed in their chosen field, entering careers in architecture, design, urban planning, art, virtual technologies and more. At U of I, your coursework leads to more than a degree — it’s the foundation for the future you want to build.

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Explore CAA’s academic programs

CAA offers a range of undergraduate and graduate art and architecture degree programs that combine academic rigor with immersive, hands-on learning. Whether you want to design sustainable cities, create works of art that spark inspiration or explore technology through virtual reality and digital design, you’ll find your path here.

Beyond the classroom: Real-world learning at CAA

Your education at the College of Art and Architecture goes further than just lectures and assignments. Every program is built on the principle of learning by doing, so you gain the skills and professional experience that reflect what you’ll do in your career. Here’s how:

• Design-build studios: Work with peers to take a project from an initial sketch to final construction, building a portfolio piece that demonstrates your ability to solve practical challenges.
• Research assistantships: Collaborate with faculty on projects that explore new ideas in design, sustainability and technology, which gives you professional-level research experience before graduation.
• High-tech labs: Access cutting-edge resources like 3D printers, AR/VR tools and model-making equipment to test your ideas and develop future-focused design solutions.
• Studios and shops: Create in inspiring art studios, fabrication shops and digital print labs equipped with the same tools current professionals use — from woodworking and metalworking to large-format printing.
• Interdisciplinary research: Collaborate across fields in spaces like the Integrated Design Lab, where students, faculty and industry leaders work together to solve pressing environmental and design challenges.
• Professional networking: Connect with industry professionals through career events, internships and partnerships that help you enter the workforce with confidence.

Whether you're sketching concepts in a sunlit studio, crafting prototypes in wood and metal shops or designing virtual spaces in cutting-edge labs, real-world application is never separate from your coursework.

CAA’s academic departments

The College of Art and Architecture houses three academic departments, each offering degree programs across design, art, architecture, technology, landscape architecture and environmental design. Together, they create an exciting environment where you’ll gain technical knowledge, creative confidence and hands-on experience.

Department of Architecture

Shape the future of our built environment by developing responsible designs that balance creativity with sustainability and practicality. Learn more about why you should earn an architecture degree.

Find architecture programs

Department of Art and Design

Turn your ideas into impactful art that prompts reflection, sparks conversation, questions societal norms and connects with diverse audiences.

Explore art and design degrees

Department of Design and Environments

Design sustainable interior spaces, shape urban and rural environments with innovative solutions or use technology to craft immersive virtual experiences.  

Discover design and environments programs

Your future in art and architecture starts here

Strong academic programs, immersive studios, real-world opportunities and a supportive community define U of I’s College of Art and Architecture. Keep moving toward your goals with us by requesting information, applying or visiting campus.