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Best Value Architecture Colleges in Illinois

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Architecture graduates from Illinois Institute of Technology earn $48,988 annually, outpacing all other programs in the state by nearly $8,000. This premium reflects Chicago's status as a major architectural center, home to firms designing everything from Willis Tower renovations to lakefront developments. However, students pay significantly more, with net costs reaching $19,353 compared to University of Illinois Chicago's $12,313. The earnings gap between the highest and lowest programs spans $22,055, making program selection critical for return on investment.
5
Programs
$12,313 – $25,027
Net Price Range
$38,306
Avg. Program Earnings
65.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

5 Architecture Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $12,313 $39,009 $14,338 60.3% 78.7%
2 $19,353 $48,988 $51,763 72.4% 61.4%
3 $16,177 $40,791 $13,244 56.3% 91.5%
4 $15,201 $35,810 $16,004 84.9% 44.8%
5 $25,027 $26,933 $30,910 53.3% 58.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Illinois Institute of Technology worth the higher cost for Architecture students?

IIT graduates earn $48,988 annually, the highest among Illinois Architecture programs, justifying the $19,353 net cost. The school's Chicago location provides direct access to major architectural firms and internship opportunities. With a 72.40% graduation rate, IIT also shows strong program completion compared to other options.

How do public university Architecture programs compare in Illinois?

University of Illinois Chicago offers the lowest net cost at $12,313 while producing graduates earning $39,009. Southern Illinois University-Carbondale costs $16,177 but graduates earn $40,791, providing solid value. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign maintains the highest graduation rate at 84.90% with moderate costs of $15,201.

Does location within Illinois affect Architecture career prospects?

Chicago-based programs show higher earning potential, with UIC and IIT graduates earning $39,009 and $48,988 respectively. The city's concentration of architectural firms, from Skidmore Owings & Merrill to smaller boutique studios, creates more opportunities. Downstate programs like Southern Illinois still produce competitive graduates earning over $40,000.

More Architecture Rankings

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.