Carnegie Mellon B.Arch Reputation

Do you guys know what sort of reputation does Carnegie Mellon University’s Architecture program have, both among employers and other students? Would their program give me a competitive edge? do employers see a degree from there differently? Any input would be appreciated, Thanks!

@cmudreamer, Congratulations on your acceptance to CMU’s school of architecture. CMU is routinely rated among or close to the top ten BArch programs by Design Intelligence. In 2017 it was #13, in 2016 #9, in 2015 #11. This is good indication of consistent quality of education and wide name recognition.

I think the major point of differentiation between CMU and other top rated BArch programs is that CMU was ahead of the curve on the integration between architecture and technology. Other schools have now caught up, but CMU has for many years promoted synergistic approach that allows BArch students to explore CMU’s considerable depth in technology as well as their excellent art and design programs.

They recently re-added their MArch which will give the department a wider exposure.

I have no doubt that a CMU BArch would be well respected throughout the US and internationally. Architecture firms tend to hire regionally and from schools that their current employees attended, but the key to getting that initial job offer will be the internships and summer jobs you hold and the professional network you establish during your BArch years. A CMU degree will be a great start but what you do with it is up to you.

@momrath How do you know what is beyond rank 10 in the Design Intelligence ranking? Where can it be determined?

@angelthearchitecturestudent
@listroider was kind enough to post the top 25 from 2016/2017 in the thread above “Design Intelligence Rankings -Historical” I haven’t seen the top 25 from 2017/2018. Maybe someone will post it?

If you want your own access to the entire list you have to buy the full report from to Design Intelligence, about $40.

How does the CMU architecture program compare to RPI?