<p>First off, I don’t think this should be taken for anything more than it is- just one architecture student’s opinion- but I will say what I thought two years ago when I was applying. Honestly, the ranking systems available right now aren't very good indicators of the programs strength. Keep in mind that architecture is at least somewhat regional, so a Cornell degree probably isn’t as strong if you want to practice in California.</p>
<p>Top group (for me)
Cornell- famous grads include Richard Meier and Peter Eiseman, ---. It used to be based on some of Collin Rowe’s teachings- (not sure anymore), has a very good reputation when you talk to other schools, very low acceptance rate- around 7% the year I applied, is frequently visited by top architects, has very good resources and deserves to be in the top group.</p>
<p>Cooper Union( I am a second year student here currently)- Graduates such as Shigeru Ban, Daniel Libeskind, Ricardo Scofidio and Elizabeth Diller, Famous Architects teaching here currently include Lebius Woods and Mike Webb, obviously has the incredible resource of NYC, also frequented by top architects, has a small class size- around 30, and also a very low acceptance rate around 5%.</p>
<p>Rice- very well respected, very low acceptance rate, small class, appears to have good professors, and is very well regarded in the Texas region.</p>
<p>Second group</p>
<p>Sci-arch (didn’t apply) Cutting edge school, very experimental, also has some pretty big names working for the school as well. The one downside is that there isn’t anything else—it is only architecture.</p>
<p>USC- Former grads include Tom Mayne and Frank Gehry. Low acceptance rate, Large program, Located in LA.</p>
<p>Pratt- has a large number of practicing architects teaching, attendees include Peter Zumthor. </p>
<p>Cincy ( didn’t apply)</p>
<p>Cal poly( didn’t apply)</p>