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Best Value Architecture Colleges in Pennsylvania

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

Carnegie Mellon stands out among Pennsylvania's Architecture programs with a $31,671 net cost producing $53,775 median earnings, while public options like Temple offer the same $47,260 earning potential at just $22,082 for in-state students. Pennsylvania's construction and real estate sectors, anchored by companies like UPMC's massive healthcare facilities, create steady demand for architectural talent. The state's eight programs range from Marywood's accessible $22,222 net cost to Drexel's $38,428, with graduation rates spanning 68% to 97%.
8
Programs
$22,222 – $38,428
Net Price Range
$50,192
Avg. Program Earnings
81.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

8 Architecture Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $22,222 $47,260 $39,570 72.5% 80.8%
2 $28,163 $48,087 $45,683 68.2% 88.9%
3 $31,671 $53,775 $63,829 92.5% 11.3%
4 $29,219 $47,260 $22,082 74.7% 79.7%
5 $38,428 $54,576 $60,663 77.1% 79.6%
6 $33,549 $62,180 89.2% 37.0%
7 $31,229 $66,104 96.8% 6.5%
8 $30,074 $21,524 84.3% 49.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Carnegie Mellon's Architecture program worth the higher cost?

Carnegie Mellon graduates earn $53,775 annually with a 92.5% graduation rate, the highest earnings among Pennsylvania Architecture programs. The $31,671 net cost reflects strong financial aid that brings the total down from the $63,829 sticker price.

How do public universities compare to private schools for Architecture value?

Temple University offers the best public option at $22,082 in-state tuition with $47,260 median earnings. University of Pittsburgh costs slightly less at $21,524 but lacks available earnings data, making Temple the clearer value choice for Pennsylvania residents.

Is the debt load reasonable for Architecture graduates in Pennsylvania?

Architecture students at Marywood and Drexel graduate with $31,000 in debt while earning $47,260 and $54,576 respectively. This debt-to-income ratio falls within reasonable ranges, particularly given Architecture's stable job market in Pennsylvania's growing healthcare and commercial sectors.

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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.