In the early stage of modern China, a number of Chinese students went to American schools to pursue architectural education from the 1920s through 1940s. During that time, diversified teaching ideas and methods co-existed in various schools. They influenced those students from different aspects. After the students returned to their homeland, they established architectural schools and adopted the methods they were taught overseas. The American education system therefore produced a profound effect upon the Chinese system. This paper is intended to explore the history of architectural education in America, as well as establish an overview of it during that period, aiming to set a foundation for the further studying of its influences on China.