SAFA Prospectus 2025
Comprehensive guide to academic programs, admissions, facilities, and student life at the School of Architecture and Fine Arts
School of Architecture and Fine Arts
The School of Architecture and Fine Arts (SAFA) at University of Phayao represents a unique convergence of multiple creative disciplines. We bring together four distinct schools — Architecture, Interior Architecture, Art & Design, and Music & Dance — within a unified vision of fostering creative makers and innovative thinkers.
Founded on the principle that collaborative learning across disciplines produces more capable and culturally aware professionals, SAFA combines deep expertise in traditional Thai artistic heritage with contemporary global design practice.
Our mission is to educate architects, designers, artists, and musicians who will contribute meaningfully to society through their creative practice, while maintaining deep connections to Thai culture and environmental responsibility.
Key Facts
Established
2010
Core Disciplines
4
Degree Levels
Bachelor + Master
Location
University of Phayao
Why Choose SAFA?
Four Disciplines, One School
Architecture, Interior Architecture, Art & Design, and Music & Dance are housed together, enabling cross-disciplinary studio collaboration and an interdisciplinary master's program.
Rooted in Local Wisdom
SAFA’s graduate identity centers on “creative practitioners grounded in cultural capital” — programs emphasize local materials, community context, and Thai heritage alongside contemporary practice.
Community-Connected
A core mission is integrating creative work with community development. Art & Design and architecture programs include community-based projects addressing real local challenges.
Creative Innovation
The school’s vision targets “excellence in innovative creativity” — students develop original works through research, design practice, and hands-on making in studios, workshops, and digital labs.
Green & Sustainable
SAFA operates under a Green Office initiative and embeds environmental responsibility across its architecture and design curricula, reflecting a commitment to sustainable practice.
Affordable Public Tuition
As a public university program, tuition ranges from 18,000–21,000 THB per semester — making quality creative education accessible without the cost burden of private institutions.
Degree Programs
SAFA offers comprehensive bachelor's and master's degrees across four disciplinary areas, with opportunities for interdisciplinary specialization.
Bachelor of Architecture Degrees (5 Years)
Bachelor of Architecture
Comprehensive training in design, technology, theory, and practice of architecture with Thai cultural context.
Tuition: 21,000 THB / semester · Total: ~210,000 THB
View Full Details arrow_forwardBachelor of Interior Architecture
Specialized study of interior design, spatial planning, and the human experience of built environments.
Tuition: 21,000 THB / semester · Total: ~210,000 THB
View Full Details arrow_forwardBachelor of Fine Arts Degrees (4 Years)
Bachelor of Art and Design
Interdisciplinary study of visual arts, graphic design, and contemporary art practice with community engagement.
Tuition: 21,000 THB / semester · Total: ~168,000 THB
View Full Details arrow_forwardBachelor of Music and Dance
Professional training in performance, composition, and choreography with emphasis on Thai traditional arts.
Tuition: 18,000 THB / semester · Total: ~144,000 THB
View Full Details arrow_forwardMaster’s Degree (Plan 1: 2 Years · Plan 2: 3 Semesters)
M.Arch. Interdisciplinary Creative Architecture
A holistic, interdisciplinary architecture program integrating architecture with cultural, community, and social contexts through advanced research and design practice. All courses are taught in Thai.
Three study plans to match different backgrounds and goals:
- • Plan 1.1 — Thesis-Focused: 6 coursework + 36 thesis credits · 35,000 THB/semester
- • Plan 1.2 — Coursework + Thesis: 24 coursework + 12 thesis credits · 35,000 THB/semester
- • Plan 2 — Coursework + Design Project: 30 coursework + 6 thesis credits · 55,000 THB/semester
Open to Thai and international applicants with strong Thai proficiency. Graduates in Architecture, Fine Arts, or related creative design fields are eligible.
View Full Details arrow_forwardPayment Plans Available
Installment options and flexible payment schedules are available. Contact admissions for details.
Material & Equipment Costs
Additional costs for art supplies, design software licenses, and specialized equipment may apply per program.
Admission Requirements
Bachelor Program Requirements
- check_circle Thai High School Diploma or Equivalent (A-Level, IB, or recognized international credential)
- check_circle Minimum GPA: 2.5/4.0 or higher
- check_circle English Proficiency: TOEFL 450+ or IELTS 4.5+ (waived for native speakers)
- check_circle Portfolio or Audition: Art & Design and Music & Dance require submission (Architecture programs may request)
- check_circle Essay + Interview: For selected candidates
Master Program Requirements
- check_circle Bachelor's Degree from accredited institution (any discipline)
- check_circle Minimum GPA: 2.75/4.0 or equivalent
- check_circle English Proficiency: TOEFL 500+ or IELTS 5.0+ (waived for native speakers)
- check_circle Portfolio or Work Samples: Demonstrating creative experience (3-5 examples)
- check_circle Statement of Purpose + Interview: Describing academic/career goals
Application Timeline
Early Admission
September - October
Regular Round
November - December
Late Round
January - February
Rolling Basis
Until seats fill
Campus Facilities & Resources
SAFA Building
The main faculty building houses multipurpose rooms on the 1st floor (east & west wings), the faculty office and co-working space with library on the 2nd floor, meeting rooms on the 3rd floor, and a Digital Learning Area (computer lab) on the 4th floor.
Rooms can be reserved through the faculty office
Multipurpose & Studio Spaces
Two large multipurpose rooms (1-1 and 1-2) on the ground floor serve as flexible studio spaces for design critiques, exhibitions, workshops, and collaborative projects across all programs.
Used for: Architecture, Interior Architecture, Art & Design, Music & Dance
Digital Learning Area
A dedicated computer lab on the 4th floor supports CAD, design software, and digital coursework for architecture and design students.
Located on the 4th floor of the SAFA building
Co-Working & Library
A co-working space integrated with the faculty library on the 2nd floor provides study areas for individual and group work. The university’s main library (ศูนย์บรรณสารและการเรียนรู้) is also available on campus.
Open during faculty office hours
New Workshop Building
A new hands-on workshop building (อาคารปฏิบัติการ) has been announced with a foundation stone ceremony held during SAFA’s 15th anniversary in February 2026, expanding capacity for practical making and material exploration.
Under development — expected to expand studio and workshop capacity
University of Phayao Campus
Students have access to shared UP campus facilities including a hospital, sports fields, swimming pool, the Phayangam Assembly Hall, UP Dorm student housing, and a campus shuttle service.
Tambon Mae Ka, Amphoe Mueang Phayao, Phayao 56000
Student Life & Support
Scholarships & Financial Aid
SAFA offers multiple funding opportunities including:
- • Merit Scholarships for high-achieving students
- • Partial Tuition Waivers for demonstrated need
- • Exchange Scholarships for international study
- • Assistantship Positions in studios and labs
- • Government Loans (Thai students) eligibility
Student Organizations & Activities
Engaged student community with numerous opportunities:
- • Design competitions and exhibitions
- • Student-led lecture series and workshops
- • Cultural performances and music recitals
- • Community service and outreach projects
- • International exchange programs
Student Services
Comprehensive support for academic and personal success:
- • Academic advising and course planning
- • Peer tutoring and study support
- • Health & wellness counseling
- • Disability accommodations
- • Career preparation and job placement
Housing & Dining
Campus living options:
- • On-campus residence halls (mostly graduate housing)
- • Partnerships with off-campus housing providers
- • Campus dining facilities with Thai and international options
- • Late-night food options for studio workers
Career Opportunities
Graduates of SAFA programs pursue careers in design practice, architectural firms, government agencies, cultural institutions, and creative industries across Thailand and internationally.
Bachelor Graduates Pursue
- • Architectural and design practices
- • Urban planning and development
- • Government and municipal design roles
- • Interior design and fit-out firms
- • Gallery and museum curation
- • Music performance and teaching
- • Further graduate study
Master Graduates Career Paths
- • Senior design and research positions
- • Design practice ownership
- • Academic and research positions
- • Cultural institution leadership
- • International consulting and development
- • Advanced creative technology roles
- • Advanced academic study (PhD)
Career Support Services
SAFA provides resume workshops, interview preparation, job fairs, alumni networking events, and ongoing career advising to support student professional development.
Begin Your Journey
How to Apply
-
1
Review Requirements
Check admission requirements for your chosen program
-
2
Prepare Materials
Gather transcripts, test scores, portfolio, and supporting documents
-
3
Submit Application
Complete online application at admissions portal
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4
Interview (if selected)
Participate in portfolio review or interview
-
5
Admission Decision
Receive decision and enrollment instructions
Contact Admissions
Office Address
School of Architecture and Fine Arts
University of Phayao
Phayao, Thailand
Phone
Office Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM (Thai Time)
Saturday - Sunday: Closed
Ready to Create Your Future at SAFA?
Join our community of architects, designers, artists, and musicians. Start your application today and become part of something extraordinary.