You may be aware that in order to become a licensed architect in most states (there are exceptions) you will need either a Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) or Master of Architecture (MArch).
The advantage of the BArch is that it is a professional degree. After you graduate you can begin taking the exams and accumulating the work hours that lead to licensure. At a dozen or so schools, you can begin the licensing process while you’re still in school, through the Integrated Path Initiative.
The disadvantage of the BArch is that it’s highly architecture focused and doesn’t allow for a lot of experimentation in other disciplines. The drop out rate is high.
The advantage of the BS, BA or BED + MArch route is that it’s less intensive and would allow you to take classes in other areas, though the studios are still pretty intense. The disadvantage is that you will need to get an MArch if you intend to become licensed, which adds time and possibly expense. The total cost of the BS/BA+MArch varies widely depending on the individual schools, so it’s hard to generalize on either the time or money involved.
I would strongly recommend that you try to attend an architecture career exploration program this summer, to help you decide if you want to make a commitment to a BArch program, and will help you develop your portfolio for schools that require one.
I would also suggest that you look closely at the TOTAL financial implication of any of the degrees or combinations of degrees you are considering. The MArch is a relatively expensive degree; you’ll want to keep your undergraduate costs at a minimum.
Whether you go for the BArch or BA/BS you should have a good balance of reach/match/safety on your list and also consider the overall environment and course offerings in case you decide that architecture isn’t for you.
There are about 45 universities in the US that offer the BArch. I don’t know the admit rate for Syracuse, but since it is highly rated, I would think it is on the selective side.
There are dozens of schools that offer either a BA or BS in architecture or architecture studies. You are not compelled to get your MArch at your undergraduate school, and you don’t actually have to major in architecture to get accepted at a good MArch program.
Some other good BA/BS/BED programs are Tulane, WUSTL, Cincinnati, UMich, Colorado Boulder, USC, Northeastern. There are quite a few others so don’t narrow your search too soon.
Portfolio requirements vary: you have to check each school for its application requirements.
Integrated programs that combine architecture and more business oriented programs like construction management or real estate development are available at several schools. These are mostly on the graduate level, but I think you could find undergraduate integrated programs if you did some research.