Best Architecture Schools in the Big Apple?

I'm intending to study architecture in New York City. Could someone recommend me the top-rated schools to focus on?

New York City has some great options when it comes to studying Architecture. Here a few top-rated schools which offer strong architecture programs:

1. Columbia University: This prestigious Ivy League school offers undergraduate and graduate programs through its Graduate School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation. The school is renowned for its focus on critical thought and theory and a broad interdisciplinary approach.

2. Cooper Union: The Irwin S. Chanin School of Architecture at the Cooper Union is one of the city's most prestigious architecture schools. Their Bachelor of Architecture degree is a highly rigorous five-year program that emphasizes design and critical thinking.

3. New York Institute of Technology (NYIT): NYIT's School of Architecture and Design offers a five-year accredited professional Bachelor of Architecture degree. This focuses on design, planning, environmental response, and building technologies.

4. Parsons School of Design - The New School: Known for their innovative approach in teaching design, Parsons offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Architectural Design that emphasizes the artistic aspect of architecture, with a focus on innovative design, sustainability, and urban design.

5. Pratt Institute: Pratt's undergraduate program in architecture is expressly designed to bridge the arts and sciences. Graduates often praise the school's approach to teaching technical skills.

6. City College of New York: The Bernard & Anne Spitzer School of Architecture offers both undergraduate and graduate programs. It's known for its focus on both professional training and nuanced understanding of the discipline.

Remember that each institution will have its own strengths, specialties, and style, and what defines the "best" school will depend largely on your personal interest, approach to architecture, and career goals. Make sure to thoroughly research each program and consider attending open houses or arranging a campus visit where possible.