Art History to Architecture

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Firstly, I just wanted to say that I am a huge fan of your blog. That said, I have a question about preparation for graduate school. I am currently a junior at UC Santa Barbara and I'm majoring in art history with an emphasis in architectural history. The program is not accredited so I will need to pursue a M.ARCH when I graduate. Besides maintaing a high GPA, what are some things that I can do in these next two years to help me prepare for admission to a graduate school? I want to go to a top architecture school so I would like to get a head start on whatever it is that you recommend.

__________

Thanks for being a fan! Also, congratulations on your desire to pursue architecture.

First, the program you are attending is not an architecture program and could not be accredited. With that said, you will wish to pursue a MArch (3-4 years) for those with a degree in a discipline other than architecture like your art history degree.

In addition to stellar academic performance, take courses in art/freehand drawing to create work for your portfolio. Also, connect with some faculty who will write your letters of recommendation. Finally, begin to research programs via the following:

NAAB - www.naab.org
ARCHSchools - www.archschools.org

To the extent possible, visit an architecture program to learn more about the process of applying and the curriculum of a MArch. There is not one directly nearby to Santa Barbara, but perhaps visit LA to visit USC, UCLA, or SCI-ARC.

Dr. Architecture

Marketing to Architecture - How to Prepare

I obtained your email from the ARCHCareers Blog. I am currently in the beginning of the research phase for pursuing a Master in Architecture. Like many of the people who wrote on the post, I have a bachelors degree in an unrelated subject (marketing) and would love some insights on what I can do to prepare to apply to programs. 

I have admired the architecture field from a young age--come from a line of developers/designers. I believe I have an innate ability when it comes to architecture and design, but I have never formally explored it. 

Before I further pursue the direction of a career, I'd like to become more knowledgeable. Do you have any recommendations on classes I should take or books I should read that would help prepare me and build my portfolio? I live in San Francisco and have easy access to the city college.

I am looking forward to hearing back to you and discussing further!

Thank you!

_________________

Thanks for contacting me with questions on becoming an architect.  First, I would suggest you continue following my blog and obtain the book, Becoming an Architect.

Becoming an Architect: A Guide to Careers in Design - 3rd Edition

http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-1118612132.html

First, do know that you can apply directly to a Master of Architecture degree program with your undergraduate degree even though it is in an unrelated field.  Typically, these degree will be from 3-4 years.  The two best websites to research potential programs are the following: 

StudyArchitecture.com

http://studyarchitecture.com

NAAB

http://www.naab.org

Next, to best prepare for applying to these programs is to visit 1-2 of them even if they are ones you do not wish to attend.  The programs will provide you insight on the curriculum and the application process.  For example, you MAY need to take calculus or physics as part of the prerequisites.  As well, you will learn what needs to be in your portfolio -- creative work.  You may consider attending an ART course to develop material for your portfolio or a summer program --

Many are for high school students but some are for YOU.

http://archcareers.blogspot.com/2017/02/summer-programs-in-architecture-2017.html

 

As a general connection to architecture, you may wish to simply follow some architecture blogs, etc.

http://archinect.com

https://architizer.com

If possible, try to connect with an architect in your region; contact the AIA SF chapter for possible referrals.

As always, I would welcome to continue the conversation on your journey.  Let me know if you have more questions.

Best.

Dr. Architecture

Industrial Design to Architecture

Hi I am studying industrial design. 

Is it possible for me to take the master degree in architecture? If yes, after taking the master degree in architecture do i become an official architect? Am i going to be able do to everything that an architect can? 

Please inform me, thank you!
________________________

Please note that my expertise is in becoming an architect in the U.S.

With your degree in industrial design, you may certainly pursue the NAAB accredited professional Master of Architecture (3-4 years) at any number of U.S. institutions that offer it.  

With the Master of Architecture, you will have completed the education portion of becoming an architect.  You would still need to complete APX - experience and pass the ARE - examination to become an architect per the state / jurisdiction requirements.

I suggest you pursue the following websites for more details on the process of becoming an architect.

StudyArchitecture.com

http://studyarchitecture.com

NAAB

http://www.naab.org

NCARB

https://www.ncarb.org

Dr. Architecture

French and English to Architecture

I hope that all is well by you!  I am hoping to pursue a Master of Architecture, though I have little academic experience in the field.  I have a Bachelor of Arts in French and English from Amherst College and a few years of experience in communications, one of which was spearheading the marketing department of a small residential design firm in San Francisco.  

 

I am wondering, are there any reputable programs you could recommend that are receptive to students pivoting from another kind of career?  I, unfortunately, do not have many college-level math or art classes to my name, though I am happy to enroll in a few this fall if need be. I am most interested in sustainable design and institutional projects.

Any advice you have is much appreciated!

________

 

Thanks for reaching out to me.  First, I will suggest you obtain a copy of Becoming an Architect as it will answer this question and others as you become an architect.

Becoming an Architect: A Guide to Careers in Design - 3rd Edition
http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-1118612132.html

The two best sources for potential colleges for studying architecture are the following:

NAAB National Architectural Accrediting Board
http://www.naab.org/architecture-programs/school-search/

Study Architecture
http://studyarchitecture.com/

To become an architect, you will need to accomplish three tasks - 1) education), 2) experience, and 3) examination.  For education, he will need to complete the a professional degree in architecture that is accredited by NAAB.

There are three degrees - 1) Bachelor of Architecture (5 years), 2) Master of Architecture following a pre-professional degree (BS or BA in Architecture) (6 years) and 3) Doctor of Architecture (Univ of Hawaii - 7 years). 

As you have a BA degree, you may pursue the Master of Architecture (a variation of #2) for those that have a degree in another discipline.  I cannot say for certain, but there are at least 50-60 programs -- see either of the websites listed above.  I typically do not recommend programs because there are so many variables, but would be glad to touch base after you have developed a list.

Depending on the program to which you apply, you may need to have calculus as a prerequisite; as well, you may wish to take ART classes to help you develop your portfolio.

Plus, I would be MORE than pleased to answer additional questions as needed.

Also, I would suggest you pursue a summer program -- this summer if possible.  Each year, I compile a list of the programs. 

http://archcareers.blogspot.com/2017/02/summer-programs-in-architecture-2017.html

Again, stay in touch.

Best Undergraduate Major to pursue Master of Architecture

Hello,
I am a high school student who wants to be an architect. My father works at a Nazarene university, so his children (me) gets free tuition to any Nazarene university. Unfortunately no Nazarene university has an architecture degree. I've heard of people getting degrees in non architecture related things and then going on and getting a masters of architecture. So my question is, what degree would most benefit me to become an architect if I can't get an architecture degree where I am going? And what schools have a great masters program?

Thanks for your time!
_________

First, you are correct in that there are many U.S. institutions that offer a Master of Architecture degree for those that pursue an undergraduate degree in another discipline, no matter the discipline.  

To research programs, visit - http://www.naab.org and http://archschools.org.

Now, with respect to what degree or major you should pursue, I would first share that pursue one for which you have a passion -- do what you love.  What is most critical is that you have great academics (GPA) when you apply to these graduate programs and you are more likely to have great academics if you pursue one for which you have a passion.

Next, it would be best to pursue a degree that is related to architecture if possible (art, landscape architecture, civil engineering, etc.) as you would possibly be able to waive courses at the graduate level.  Also, you want to pursue a major that would help you build a portfolio -- take courses that create materials for a portfolio.

Lastly, select an institution that is a good fit for you - one that you will enjoy as you may change your mind and not choose architecture in the long term.

Best.

After B.Arch, What is Next?

I am an Indian student in a premier institute of architecture, Chandigarh College of Architecture. I am in my final year of a 5 year course and I want an advice on how to proceed with my career.

I know my options- M. Arch. , MBA, MBA and M. Arch. dual degree, M. Des. , and last but not the least- a job.

But I don't know if you know this, the salary given to fresh graduates in India is very very little. Hardly 1/3rd of what is required to survive.

I have been a bright student in maths and I am a creative person in general. Because of the pressure of all other overachievers, my parents want me to do an MBA right away and earn good money. But even for that, you need an experience of min 2 years to get a good college. (When I say my parents want me to do .... , I mean I cant go out of the way and do something else and hope that they get around with it. They'll probably break all ties with me if I do something offbeat or something with late returns (or no returns))

I am interested in masters education in the following subjects;

-sustainable buildings

-urban planning

-marketing

However, given the situation, a good return is guaranteed on marketing, construction management and a regular MBA in any college I get a place in.

I am open to a job in Europe or USA because I believe that the exposure might be good and they even are financially supporting. But I don't know if I'll be a good candidate because of the recession. F.y.i. I did my internship in Austria and I loved my time there. I learned a lot and enjoyed being among creatively stimulating environs and people.

I aim to do my masters in the US but my family can't afford the education bill. Loan is going to be the only option.

I am giving GRE next month as it will be helpful for admissions in both  M. Arch. and MBA and is valid for 5 years. Apart from this, I aim to give LEED Green Associate exam sometime before I graduate so that I could maybe get any edge while applying for a job (will I get an edge while applying for a job?). 

I hope to receive a good advice from you as I am very confused as to what to do in the future.

Regards

_______________

I am not sure what you expect to hear from me; my expertise is becoming an architect in the U.S.

Given you are about to complete your 5-year Bachelor of Architecture, you do have choices - career position or pursuit of additional education in architecture and/or related disciplines.

As I counsel my own students, you can go through the application process to graduate programs in the U.S. or elsewhere. Some programs do have fellowships and other means of financial aid; be sure to apply.  For what degree to apply is entirely up to you.  If you wish to become licensed in the U.S., you may consider the professional NAAB accredited Master of Architecture along with joint degrees - i.e., MBA, Construction Management.

The true question is what make most sense given where you will be in your career in 10-20 years.  Predict your future!

Sources for information is http://www.naab.org and http://archschools.org.  Both will provide a list of programs in the U.S. for architecture. 

I do think obtaining your LEED GA will be a plus, but do recognize that it will be nearly impossible for you to gain employment in the U.S. without first being a student at a U.S. program.

Best.

Psychology to Architecture

I have recently been considering going back to school for architecture but do not have any background in the field, so I was looking for some information on what the path would entail. I have a B.A. in psychology from a top US university and have been working in biomedical research for the past two years. Where would I start in terms of schooling to become an architect?

Thank you for your help.

___________

Given you have a degree albeit in another discipline, you may pursue the Master of Architecture (3-4 years).  If you wish to research potential programs, visit - http://www.naab.org and/or http://archschools.org.  Both will provide you with a list of institutions that offer the Master of Architecture.

As well, a group of schools in Illinois host the Chicago Architecture + Design College Day - Saturday, October 18, 2014 -http://www.chicagocareerday.org --

A good place to start is obtaining a copy of Becoming an Architect, 3rd ed. published by Wiley.

Becoming an Architect: A Guide to Careers in Design - 3rd Edition
http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-1118612132.html

As you research programs for F15, note that some may require you to take Calculus and/or Physics.  As well, you will need to submit a portfolio with your application.  Start drawing or consider taking a drawing course.

If possible, shadow an architect; contact the local chapter of AIA American Institute of Architects.

Keep in touch in your path.

Best

@DocArchitecture

Architecture vs. Industrial Design

I am a B.Arch student from India.My bachelors degree was a 5 years program and I recently graduated.Well for my last two semesters we had to Intern and I chose to intern in two different places and my first Internship was in Malaysia and then another semester back in India. The kind of work I did was mostly just drafting and when I went took up Architecture as my profession that's not what I wanted to do. I wanted to design more, I want my designs to be out there.

I want to pursue a Masters degree in US, first to learn more and in a less theoretical school and secondly to have a chance in the work environment. I'd like to work in America for a few years before I return to set up my own firm.

I would like to know if M.Arch in America lets you be more creative and if a M.Arch there would help you land jobs in there. Also recently i've been very interested in Industrial Design, initially because I wanted to own an Architecture company and also design products. But, when I started doing more research about ID, it felt like there was more freedom of design in ID and it got me more interested.

Now, i'm confused between a Masters in Architecture or ID. But I would ultimately pick the more practical choice and I definitely don't want to stray away from Architecture because that's what i've always wanted to be, an Architect. But I would like to learn something new, something a little less restricting on design and yes, designing products has got me interested lately.

So, id like to know if I did a Masters program in ID there, would I still be able to work as an Architect there? Would they consider my B.Arch from India, a good portfolio and 2 years experience in the field? What are my chances of landing an Architect's job with the qualifications mentioned above.

It would be of great help if you could answer my questions or give me any sort of insight. Eagerly awaiting your response.

Thank You.

__________________

First, to learn more about graduate programs in architecture in the U.S., I suggest you visit these two websites -- that will provide you with a list of institutions.

http://www.naab.org

http://archschools.org

Certainly, obtaining a Master of Architecture in the U.S. will assist in gaining a position in the U.S.  Whether they are more creative will probably depend on the institution you choose.

Unfortunately, my expertise is not ID so I cannot be of much help, but you may wish to contact IDSA - Industrial Designers Society of America - http://www.idsa.org/

Given you have a BArch, you could eventually be licensed in the U.S., but it would be a different process than if you pursued your MArch in the U.S.  Visit NCARB - http://www.ncarb.org for details on licensure.

While I do not dispute your credentials, obtaining a work visa for the U.S. is challenging.  If you were to become a student in the U.S., there are work programs.

Best.

NAAB and Becoming an Architet

Dr. Architecture:

I have a few questions in mind. I am a little perplexed when my parents ask me what I want to become. I want to become an architect. The only problem is that I dont know which college or university to take admission in. I reside in India,and I study in class 12. I read about this in NAAB. I wanted to know what is it about and which colleges in Asia are registered with it..

Thank you

______________

First, congrats on your pursuit of becoming an architect.  

Next, NAAB is the National Architectural Accrediting Board -- (http://www.naab.org).  As you can read from their website, they accredit architecture programs in the U.S.  In addition, they maintain a list of accredited programs with websites for you to research.

Unfortunately, they do NOT accredit programs outside the U.S.

An additional resource for you is Becoming an Architect, 3rd ed. -- Again, it is written for becoming an architect in the U.S., but it may still be useful.

Becoming an Architect: A Guide to Careers in Design - 3rd Edition

http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-1118612132.html

Best.

Recommendations for a School.

Which schools would you recommend a high school student apply to when considering architecture as a career?
______________

Unfortunately, I do not recommend architecture programs.  Ultimately, it is up to you to research the programs against what is important to you to determine the best fit.

Below are two resources for you to review --

NAAB - http://www.naab.org - list of accredited programs

ARCHSchools.org - http://www.archschools.org - list of accredited programs with ability to search.

Aside from these online resources, inquire with each program and ask for names of either current students or recent graduates for insight on the program.

Best!

Selecting an Architecture Program

My daughter is a high school junior with career plans to become a licensed, certified Architect. As we have been visiting colleges, it looks like there are many different programs, but not all meet the requirements to allow her to take the necessary tests. Either that , or some take much longer than others to reach their endpoint, or get there in very different ways.  At some of the places we visited, we have not been convinced that even after completing their 5 or 6 years of training that Julia's requirements to move forward in the certification process would be met.

How do we evaluate programs to be sure we are in the right place? Is there a list of acceptable accredited programs we should work from? Any guidance you can provide will be very valuable as we try to find the most effective program somewhere in the mid-Atlantic, New England,  or East Coast area for her to be in for the next 5 or 6 years. Thank you.
___________

First, I will suggest you obtain the book, Becoming an Architect, 2nd Edition as it outlines the entire process from high school to licensure.  With that said, I will provide answers to your questions.  We may also wish to touch base via the phone.

To become an architect in most states, an individual must have the following: 1) accredited professional degree by NAAB, 2) completion of IDP - Intern Development Program, and 3) pass the ARE - Architect Registration Exam.

As for degrees, NAAB accredits the following: 1) BArch - five year program, 2) MArch - typically 2-3 years following a BSAS pre-professional degree, 2b) MArch - typically 3-4 years following a BA/BS in a field other than architecture, and 4) DArch - only available from Hawaii.

What you have visited may be pre-professional degrees that require further education with the MArch.

To see the list of accredited programs, visit the NAAB website - http://www.naab.org. Another sources isARCHSchools.org - it requires a login, but is free.

To evaluate programs, I strongly encourage her to visit the programs and have a list of needs. 

Also, I would strongly encourage her to attend a summer program to experience it firsthand prior to college.  Attached is the preliminary list for Summer 2014.  The final list is available in late January.

Do let me know if you have any additional questions.  Best.

Interior Architecture to Architecture

Hello Dr. Architect

I have been in the United States for two years. In my country I received certificate in Interior Architecture , which is not a degree here.I just can evaluate two classes.Now I am in a community college and taking ESL courses. As you can see I would like to continue my education in same major which Woodbury University offers that in Bachelor degree.And maybe later continue the same major in UCLA in Master program. As a new student what would you recommend to me in educational, financial and career perspective.And Also, Should  interior architecture has Accreditation? What is it, is it NAAB?

Thanks for your time.

_______________

As you do not have the equivalent of an undergraduate degree (BA or BS), you may wish to consider pursuing an undergraduate architecture degree (preprofessional) with later pursuing a Master of Architecture.  

Or, you could pursue the five-year professional Bachelor of Architecture.

Which you pursue depends on you and your desire.

NAAB is the National Architectural Accrediting Board -- http://www.naab.org.  They accredit architecture programs, not interior architecture.

Best!

Sales Analyst to Architecture

Dr. Architecture,

After perusing the website, I saw a plethora of information regarding a career in architecture following the traditional route (ie, receiving a bachelors in ARCH and proceeding from there). How would one transition careers if they did not study ARCH as an undergraduate? 

I am currently a sales analyst who majored in finance and supply chain as an undergraduate and am looking a for a career change. I would appreciate guidance to some sources you are aware of that may aid me in such a transition.

____________

If you have an undergraduate degree in any discipline you can apply to the Master of Architecture (3-4 years).  About 50-60 architecture programs in the U.S. have the Master of Architecture for those with a degree in another discipline.

For a list of accredited programs, visit http://www.naab.org --

Be aware that you will need to submit a portfolio as part of your admission application.  If you have no creative work, you may wish to take a drawing / art course to develop your skills.

Best.

India - Civil Engineering to Architecture

Dr. Architect

I found your e-mail from your blog. I am from India, I have completed my B.E in civil engineering but have an interest towards architecture as a career. i plan on pursuing M.Arch but most of the institutions here ask for B.arch as a eligibility criteria. Is there no chance that i can do a diploma course and continue with masters? Please suggest me a solution.

Thank You

_________________

Congrats on your completing your BE in Civil Engineering.

First, remember my expertise is on becoming an architect in the U.S.  With that said, you can pursue the Master of Architecture with your undergraduate degree, but in most cases you will need to study between 3-4 years because your degree is not in architecture.

To search accredited programs, visit -- http://www.naab.org --

Because your degree is related, you may be able to waive some required courses in structures but it will depend on the institutions to which you apply.  Be sure to have all of your course syllabi.

I cannot speak to the educational system in India, but I imagine that the Master of Architecture degrees are for those with the Bachelor of Architecture.

I am sorry I cannot be of more help.  Best.

Architectural Education Guidance

I have not started university yet, but do you have any advise for me as e.g. what to learn before I go, what to read, what to practice etc. I intend to go to University this fall to study architecture BAs degree. One of the things that I have recently been seeing, is that some universities offer architecture design and architecture and I would like to know what are the differences, as well as to know why some university if not most don’t ask for maths nor physics but they demand you have art.

Architects need maths and if so how much off it; really how much is demanded of an architect regarding maths. Some people that I have asked say that not a whole lot of it just to not be bad at it, but you don’t need to be a genius at it. Now, I don’t know if that is true, but I find you to be the ideal person to answer these questions.

______________

The best and worst aspect of pursuing an architectural education is that no two programs do it exactly alike.  All architecture programs must meet the NAAB (http://www.naab.org) Student Performance Criteria, but each program can do it in the manner that they see fit.

Thus, I would not worry about differences in programs but rather focus on the program that best fits YOU.

With regards to mathematics, it has been my experience that many programs do require students to take calculus, but not all.  Architects need to know mathematics, but in many situations, will consult with engineers for calculations.

Be aware that you may end of taking a longer path to licensure with a BA degree instead of a BS degree at the undergraduate level.  I suggest you be in touch with each program and inquiry where there graduates pursue graduate studies.

Best and feel free to ask more questions.

Community College to Architecture

I am going into my third year of community college. After changing my major twice, I just found out that I want to become an architect. However I'm not really sure how to start out? I realize I'm a little bit behind as far as obtaining a degree is concerned so I'm really looking forward to progressing quickly through my classes and catching up. Are there any suggestions such as classes or programs I should be taking to sort of jump start my career? I hope to hear back from you soon and thanks for the help.

Gateway Community College / SmithGroup JJR

____________

Congratulations on your decision to study architecture.  You may think you are behind, but you have plenty of time to complete the degree.

The best place to start is to first learn how to become an architect with its 1) education, 2) experience, and 3) exam.  The best sources to learn this is -- http://www.archcareers.org -- or the book, Becoming an Architect, 2nd ed.

From there, determine potential architecture programs (schools) that you wish to attend and contact them to determine what courses would be needed for transfer.  In many cases, you may need calculus and physics prior to admission.

For a list of programs, review both http://www.naab.org and http://archschools.org --

Aside from academic preparation, consider shadowing an architect in an office to learn more about the profession.  Keep a sketchbook - draw for 30 minutes everyday of the world around you.  Eventually, you will connect your brain (creativity) with your eye (seeing) and your hand.

Send me more questions as you have them.

Best.

Master without Bachelor?

I visited your blog and I am really touched by the way in which you guide people to cope with difficulties. I am from Madagascar and I have done an International baccalaureat. Right now I am doing Bachelor degree in Interior Design, I have done foundation year and now I am in Second year and due to some reasons I will not be able to do my Third year.   I really like this field and want to do Masters in a developped contry like US, Australia or Italy. Is it possible to do it without a bachelor degree? 
Hope to read you soon,
 
Thank you
____________

First, thanks for your kind words on my blog.

As for your question, you would need to check with potential graduate programs to which you are interested to determine if it is possible to pursue a MArch without a bachelor degree -- my experience tells me that is unlikely.

However, given that you will have completed two years of bachelor degree in interior design, it would be possible to transfer to an undergraduate degree in architecture to either the BArch or the preprofessional BSAS.

At this point, I would suggest you contact some potential programs -- for a list of programs in the U.S., visit -- http://www.naab.org --.

Best!

BArch to MArch?

I am doing a bachelor of architecture from India. I want to do a masters degree, and if i do a masters will it help in future? also does doing masters in india and abroad is different or equivalent? I am very confused whether to take up masters in india or abroad?
_____________

First, remember my expertise is in becoming an architect in the U.S., not India.

In the U.S., an individual with a BArch would be eligible to become a licensed architect; those with a BArch would only pursue a graduate degree in architecture to for the pursuit of additional knowledge typically a targeted topic.  They would NOT need the graduate degree to become licensed.

For you, I am not sure if you NEED to pursue a graduate degree in architecture; do you WANT to pursue a graduate degree in architecture.  Certainly, pursuing a graduate degree can only be helpful, but do you have the finances to do so?

To learn more about graduate programs in the U.S., visit http://www.naab.org --.

As you do more research, feel free to ask more specific questions.

Master vs. Bachelor

Greetings Dr. Architecture,

I heard from a professor that in order to be licensed to design a building, you'd have to have a Master's Degree in Architecture. My question is, if I'm only aiming to be a part of a design team will a bachelor's degree in architecture be adequate? Thank you in advance for answering. 

_______________

To be an architect in the U.S., you must have a professional NAAB accredited degree in architecture.  As stated by NAAB, you may either pursue the Bachelor of Architecture (5 years), the Master of Architecture (2-4 years after an undergraduate degree) or the Doctor of Architecture.

Students reviewing work

Thus, what do you wish to be?  If you wish to be an architect, you can pursue either the master or bachelor degree.

Best!

Art History to Architecture

Dear Dr. Architecture,

I recently graduated with a B.A in Art History because my university did not have an architecture program. It has always been a plan of mine to be an architect. What universities or programs would you recommend before applying for graduate school?
____________

First, congrats on your recent degree and interest in pursuing architecture.

As a practice, I refrain from recommending particular universities or programs as there are many factors to consider when selecting a program.  I would suggest you begin your research process by visiting --http://www.naab.org and http://www.archschools.org -- both provide lists of NAAB accredited programs.

Given your undergraduate degree is in an unrelated discipline, you will be pursue the Master of Architecture (3-4 years).  As outlined in my book, Becoming an Architect, 2nd ed., there are many factors to consider - You, Institution, and Program.  I will suggest that you spend much of your time on the factors related to the program as you will spend the most time there.

Degree, academic structure, philosophy/approach, accreditation, enrollment, academic resources, special programs, faculty, students, career programs, postgraduate plans, etc.

It is up to you to consider these and determine their level of importance.

Also, contact each program and speak directly with the academic leader (dean, chair, head, etc.) and be in contact with current students or recent graduates.

Best.