Cal Poly (SLO), RISD, Syracuse, Carnegie Mellon, Georgia Tech, U Miami, Virginia Tech, and Penn State offered me admission to their Architecture programs. Which one should I go to? It would be great if I could get some advice on how to choose the right college. I’m overwhelmed and do not know where to start.
The right college is where you will thrive academically and socially along with it being affordable. Pick which one is right for you and you only.
The first reply was the best advice you’re going to get.
If you will be taking out loans, another big factor in your decision will be your net cost of attendance.
Wow good luck. Those are great schools. What a list. Too bad you can’t spend a semester at each!
What’s your budget range? And what’s the net price* at each?
Congratulations, those are awesome schools!
*net price = (tuition+room+board+fees) - (grants+scholarships)
You ought to post on the Architecture college confidential board. You will find parents, peers and Architects who would love to help you.
http://www.finaid.org/calculators/awardletteradvanced.phtml
Here is a good calculator if you need to compare the numbers.
Which city and region has your favorite type of architecture? Which place would you most like to live and work after graduation? Do you have any favorite architects, and if so, are they located in any of these places? It would be nice if you were surrounded with inspiring architecture in the city where you are studying. If you like skyscrapers and hope to work on them one day, then Atlanta could be a good choice. If you like art deco, Miami would be nice. Etc.
Is money an issue?
Are these 4 year BS or BA degrees or 5 year Bach of Arch degrees? I know Va Tech is a 5 year program and is very highly rated.
I’ve worked with architects with degrees from Va Tech, Ga Tech, Miami, Syracuse and Penn State. All great programs. I am not very familiar with the other programs.
See if you can’t narrow that list down - affordability, location from your home (you want far away or close?), urban school or more rural, big sports school, lots of school spirit, more diverse in approach or all technical/engineering oriented, sunny place or cold?
http://www.di.net/articles/americas-best-architecture-schools-2016/
This ranking may help